KTT F2 vs. Gateron Ink Box Black
An in-depth look at the KTT F2 and the Gateron Ink Box Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT F2 and the Gateron Ink Box Black mechanical keyboard switches, it's clear that they offer distinct features that cater to different preferences. The KTT F2 is renowned for its unique hollow sound signature and lightly textured feel, providing a comfortable typing experience with a medium-light weightiness. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Black stands out for its smooth and creamy keystrokes, accompanied by a sound reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken. While the F2 falls into categories such as 'Feathery' and 'Subdued', the Ink Box Black is described as 'Clacky' and 'Polished'. 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
43g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The KTT F2 and Gateron Ink Box Black both feature top and bottom housings made of different materials, with the F2's using polycarbonate for both the top and bottom, while the Ink Box Black utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend for both. In terms of sound profile, both switches offer a high-pitched and crisp sound, with the F2's polycarbonate housing creating a sharper, more resonant profile, while the Ink Box Black's INK blend housing is described as clacky with a satisfying thin sound. Aesthetically, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches using RGB lighting, while the INK blend provides a unique visual appeal.
While the top and bottom housings of the F2 and Ink Box Black differ in material, their overall sound profiles remain relatively similar, with both switches offering a high-pitched and satisfying typing experience. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate in the F2 creates a clearer sound profile, particularly evident when releasing a key, while the INK blend in the Ink Box Black offers a slightly less sharp but still clacky sound. The impact of the housing material on the typing experience is split between the top and bottom of the switch, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing influencing the sound when releasing a key.
In conclusion, the choice between the KTT F2 and Gateron Ink Box Black ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. Both switches offer a high-pitched and satisfying typing experience, with the F2's polycarbonate housing providing a sharper and more resonant sound, while the INK blend in the Ink Box Black offers a unique clacky profile. Whether you prefer a stiffer and clearer sound or a slightly softer but still satisfying typing experience, both switches deliver quality results suitable for different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT F2 linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch, it is evident that the F2 is lighter in both aspects. The F2 has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black is heavier, with an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a more substantial push feel for users who prefer a heavier typing experience. Both switches offer unique benefits - the F2 allows for longer typing sessions and lighter keystrokes, while the Ink Box Black provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The KTT F2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. However, the slight difference in travel distance may be noticeable to some users, with the Ink Box Black offering a slightly longer travel distance compared to the F2. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a slightly shorter or longer travel distance for a more tailored typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Box Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Box Black for $7.65.
The KTT F2 comes in at $3.90 per 10 switches.
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
When it comes to sound, the KTT F2 linear switch offers a neutral and subdued sound profile that is moderate and dampened, making it suitable for various purposes without being too loud. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch produces a clacky and high-pitched sound that is sharp, bright, and percussive, reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken. Depending on your preference, you can choose between the neutral and subdued sound of the F2 or the more distinct and sharp sound of the Ink Box Black.
In terms of feel, the KTT F2 linear switch provides a feathery, mild, and subtle typing experience with a lightly textured feel that adds a tactile nuance to each keystroke. This makes it comfortable for extended typing sessions and suitable for shared spaces due to its gentle resistance. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch offers a silky and polished typing experience, with exceptionally smooth key travel and minimized resistance. If you prefer a smooth and refined typing feel, the Ink Box Black might be the better choice for you.
In conclusion, the KTT F2 and Gateron Ink Box Black linear switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The F2 provides a moderate and dampened sound with a comfortable and lightly textured typing experience, while the Ink Box Black offers a sharp and percussive sound with an incredibly smooth and polished typing feel. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and typing experience, you can choose between the distinct qualities of each switch to find the one that best suits your needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the KTT F2 linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch, consider the characteristics that best suit your preferences and needs. If you value a distinct hollow sound signature with a lightly textured feel and a medium-light weightiness for a comfortable typing experience, the F2 switch might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer an incredibly smooth and creamy switch with a sound reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken, along with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Ink Box Black switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel, so choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and environment.
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