KTT F2 vs. Gateron Silent Ink Black
An in-depth look at the KTT F2 and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT F2 and the Gateron Silent Ink Black are two popular options to consider. The KTT F2 switch stands out for its distinct hollow sound signature and lightly textured feel, providing a comfortable typing experience without being too forceful. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch is preferred for its silent typing experience, making it ideal for quiet environments. While the F2 offers a medium-light weightiness and tactile nuance, the Silent Ink Black provides a cushiony bottom-out feel with minimal audio feedback. 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
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT F2 and Gateron Silent Ink Black switches both utilize polycarbonate in their top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This material is known for its stiffness, leading to a clear and resonant sound. The F2's housing, being clear due to its translucency, is particularly suited for RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black features Gateron's proprietary INK blend top housing, resulting in a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound that is often described as clacky but not overly sharp.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the KTT F2 and Gateron Silent Ink Black switches also use polycarbonate. Similar to the top housing, this material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile and a clear and resonant sound. The F2's bottom housing, when combined with the top housing, influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Conversely, the Silent Ink Black's proprietary INK blend bottom housing also plays a role in the overall sound profile, contributing to the satisfying, thin, and higher-pitched sound characteristic of these switches.
While the housing materials of the KTT F2 and Gateron Silent Ink Black switches share similarities in terms of using polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housings, their unique blends and designs create distinct sound profiles. The split between the qualities of the top and bottom housings impacts how each switch sounds and feels during key presses and releases. Ultimately, whether you prefer the sharper, crisper sound of the F2 with its clear polycarbonate housing or the clacky yet high-pitched sound of the Silent Ink Black with its proprietary INK blend housing, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT F2 linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, it is evident that the F2 is lighter overall. The F2 has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it medium-light in terms of typing resistance. In contrast, the Silent Ink Black has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, which places it in the medium-heavy category. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time, the F2 would be the better choice. However, individuals seeking a more substantial and tactile typing feel may gravitate towards the Silent Ink Black due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The KTT F2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5mm, while the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4mm. In this case, the Silent Ink Black has a longer travel distance compared to the F2. The shorter travel distance of the F2 may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Silent Ink Black could be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial key press. Both switches have different travel distances, so choosing between them will depend on personal preference and typing style. Ultimately, selecting the switch with the appropriate travel distance can enhance your typing experience based on your specific needs and preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Silent Ink 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 Silent Ink Black for $8.35.
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
In terms of sound, the KTT F2 linear switch is known for its unique hollow sound signature, offering a somewhat subdued and textured auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch is designed to provide a muted sound profile, making it a great choice for quieter environments. While the F2 switch falls more on the neutral and subdued side in terms of sound, the Silent Ink Black switch offers a softer and quieter typing experience overall.
When it comes to feel, the KTT F2 switch is recognized for its medium-light weightiness, giving it a feathery and mild typing feel that is comfortable for extended use. The lightly textured keystrokes on the F2 add a subtle tactile nuance to each press. In contrast, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch is described as silky and polished, providing an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience with a cushiony bottom-out feel. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, but the F2 leans towards a lighter touch with subtle nuances, while the Silent Ink Black offers a silkier and more polished keystroke.
Overall, while the KTT F2 linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch each have their own unique sound and feel qualities, they both aim to provide a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience. Depending on personal preferences regarding sound and feel, either switch could be a great choice for both beginners and advanced users alike. Ultimately, both switches offer a balanced and approachable typing experience, ensuring that users will get similar satisfying results in terms of comfort and performance.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT F2 linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, consider the factors of sound and feel. If you prefer a switch with a distinct hollow sound signature and lightly textured feel, the F2 may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you need a switch that offers a silenced typing experience with a cushiony bottom-out feel, the Silent Ink Black is the way to go. Additionally, if you are looking for a switch with a feathery or subtle typing feel, the F2 is a good option, whereas the Silent Ink Black provides a silky and polished typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on your specific preferences for sound and feel in your mechanical keyboard.
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