KTT Ash Gray vs. Gateron Ink Red
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the Gateron Ink Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the KTT Ash Gray and the Gateron Ink Red. The Ash Gray is a tactile switch that offers a substantial yet unobtrusive tactile response. It has a light touch and a crisp actuation, providing a delightful blend of tactile feedback without being too overwhelming. On the other hand, the Ink Red is a linear switch known for its lower actuation force, making it perfect for those with a lighter typing style. It offers a smooth typing experience, accompanied by a crispy and clacky sound profile. Both switches have their unique qualities, allowing you to choose based on your personal preferences and typing style. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Ash Gray and the Gateron Ink Red switches have distinct characteristics that contribute to their sound profiles. The Ash Gray features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the Ink Red has a proprietary INK blend top housing that produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound, described as clacky. Both materials contribute to a satisfying thin sound, but the Ash Gray's polycarbonate offers a clearer sound profile.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Ash Gray utilizes a nylon material, eliciting a deeper and fuller sound when typing. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. Similarly, the Ink Red features a proprietary INK blend bottom housing that contributes to its relatively high-pitched sound. Both bottom housings provide a satisfying clackiness, but the Ash Gray's nylon offers a deeper and more absorbent sound.
While the top and bottom housings of the Ash Gray and Ink Red switches have different materials, each material brings unique qualities to the overall sound profile. Pressing down on the switch will primarily reveal the qualities of the bottom housing, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both switches offer a satisfying and somewhat clacky sound profile, although the Ash Gray's polycarbonate top housing may provide a slightly clearer sound when compared to the Gateron Ink Red's INK blend top housing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Red linear switch, there are some notable differences. The Ash Gray requires a lighter actuation force of 38 grams, while the Ink Red requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the Ash Gray will be easier to trigger with a lighter touch, suitable for those who prefer a more sensitive typing experience. In contrast, the Ink Red will require a slightly firmer touch to activate the keystroke.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Ash Gray has a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Ink Red has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that when pressing the keys all the way down, the Ink Red will provide a slightly more substantial typing experience, making it ideal for those who prefer a stronger push feel. The Ash Gray, on the other hand, offers a slightly lighter bottom out force, which may be preferred by individuals who type for longer periods or engage in extended gaming sessions.
Overall, while the Ink Red has slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces compared to the Ash Gray, both switches fall within the medium range. Therefore, for users looking for a similar typing experience, these switches will provide similar results in terms of force requirements. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience, whether it be a lighter touch or a more substantial feel.
Travel distance
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Ink Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Ink Red being slightly longer than the Ash Gray. However, it is important to note that shorter travel distances have become increasingly popular, especially among gamers who value faster response times. If you prioritize a more responsive typing experience, the Ash Gray's shorter travel distance may be more suitable for you. On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt, preferring a switch with a longer travel distance like the Ink Red for a sense of depth in their typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and the specific requirements of each user.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Ash Gray has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ash Gray for $2.55.
The Gateron Ink Red has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Red for $7.35.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
In terms of sound, both the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Red linear switch are described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that they have a moderate sound that is suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use them at home or work. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as your choice of keyboard board and keycaps. Therefore, while the Ash Gray and Ink Red switches may have similar sound profiles, the overall sound can be further customized based on these additional components.
When it comes to feel, the Ash Gray tactile switch is described as easy-to-press and offering gentle resistance during key presses. This means that it requires minimal force to activate, making typing effortless and comfortable. The light actuation force of the Ash Gray enhances the typing experience by providing a responsive and low-impact feel. Additionally, the Ash Gray is also described as having a mild tactile feedback, which means it offers a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users.
On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch is described as silky and offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience. These switches minimize resistance when pressing and releasing keys, resulting in an overall smooth and effortless feel. Similar to the Ash Gray, the Ink Red is also described as having a mild typing experience, which means it provides a gentle feel that is comfortable and approachable for most users. Additionally, the Ink Red switch is also described as polished, indicating that it has a smooth and refined finish that further enhances the typing experience by reducing friction and providing smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Ash Gray tactile switch and the Ink Red linear switch have some similarities in terms of sound and feel. Both switches have a neutral sound profile and provide a mild typing experience that is comfortable for most users. However, the Ash Gray switch offers an easy-to-press feel with gentle resistance, while the Ink Red switch offers an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and any other specific requirements you may have.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you prefer a switch with a lighter touch and a crisp actuation, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch would be a great choice for you. It offers a delightful blend of tactile feedback that is not too overwhelming, providing a satisfying typing experience. The Ash Gray switch has an easy-to-press feel, requiring minimal force to activate, making typing effortless and comfortable. Additionally, it has a neutral sound profile, suitable for most purposes.
On the other hand, if you have a lighter typing style and prefer a linear switch, the Gateron Ink Red would be a suitable option. With a medium actuation force, it offers a smooth and effortless typing experience. The Ink Red switch has a neutral sound profile, making it versatile for any setting. It is also described as chirpy, providing a unique acoustic signature that sets it apart from other switches.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Ash Gray and Gateron Ink Red switches depends on your personal preference for tactile feedback and linear typing experience. Consider factors such as bottom out force, sound profile, and key feel to make an informed decision. Both switches offer high-quality performance and can enhance your overall typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
