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Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. KTT MoonRosa

An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the KTT MoonRosa switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the KTT MoonRosa, both linear switches. The Ink Black V2 is favored for its smooth downstroke and satisfying clack, offering a tactile experience categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Bassy', 'Chirpy', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the MoonRosa stands out for its all-POM construction, providing a buttery smooth typing experience and a neutral sound signature. This switch is categorized as 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', and 'Easy-to-press'. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that may appeal to different preferences, 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

60g

Actuation force

37g

Bottom-out force

70g

Bottom-out force

45g

Pre-travel

2.00 mm

Pre-travel

1.80 mm

Total travel

4.00 mm

Total travel

3.50 mm

Factory lubed

Yes

Factory lubed

Yes

Stem construction

Standard

Stem construction

Partial box

Stem material

POM

Stem material

POM

Top housing material

Proprietary INK blend

Top housing material

POM

Bottom housing material

Proprietary INK blend

Bottom housing material

POM

Mount type

PCB (5-pin)

Mount type

PCB (5-pin)

Spring

Color coated

Spring

22mm spring

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the KTT MoonRosa switches both offer unique sound profiles, with the Ink Black V2's proprietary INK blend top housing providing a pointed, high-pitched, and clacky sound, while the MoonRosa's POM top housing offers a deeper and more muted sound. In terms of bottom housing, the INK blend of the Ink Black V2 provides a similar high-pitched sound profile, while the POM bottom housing of the MoonRosa contributes to a deeper and more muted sound. Overall, the two switches have distinct characteristics in their housing materials that result in different sound experiences when typing.

However, despite their differences, the top and bottom housing materials of the Ink Black V2 and the MoonRosa serve similar functions in influencing the overall sound profile of the switches. The bottom housing materials play a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, with the INK blend and POM materials offering their respective high-pitched and deep-muted qualities. On the other hand, the top housing materials impact the sound when releasing a key, with the INK blend providing a clacky sound and the POM material offering a more subtle sound experience. While they may have distinct characteristics, both switches ultimately create satisfying sound profiles due to their housing materials.

In conclusion, the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the KTT MoonRosa switches each bring unique qualities to the typing experience. The INK blend and POM materials offer contrasting sound profiles, with the INK blend producing a sharp and high-pitched sound, while the POM material creates a deeper and more muted sound. Despite their differences, both switches utilize their top and bottom housing materials effectively to create a satisfying sound experience when typing. Whether you prefer a clacky sound or a more subtle sound profile, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.

Weight

In comparing the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the KTT MoonRosa linear switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role. The Ink Black V2 has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. On the other hand, the MoonRosa is lighter, with an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. The lighter actuation force of the MoonRosa allows for easier keystrokes, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the heavier forces of the Ink Black V2 offer a more substantial typing feel, appealing to those who prefer a stronger push when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preference, with some favoring lighter forces for increased comfort and others opting for heavier forces for a more robust typing experience.

Travel distance

The Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it slightly longer than the KTT MoonRosa linear switch with a travel distance of 3.5 mm. While both switches fall within the realm of traditional travel distances, the difference in length may be noticeable to some users. Gamers seeking faster response times may lean towards the MoonRosa with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more pronounced key press may opt for the Ink Black V2. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing or gaming experiences.

Price comparison

Which switch is more bang for your buck?

The Gateron Ink Black V2 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 Black V2 for $7.24.

The KTT MoonRosa comes in at $4.88 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, both the Gateron Ink Black V2 and KTT MoonRosa switches are described as having a low-pitched tone, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow sound compared to higher-pitched switches. The Ink Black V2 also has a bassy and chirpy sound, adding depth and a unique acoustic signature to key presses. Remember that the sound of a switch can also be affected by factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, both switches offer a mild typing experience suitable for most users. The Gateron Ink Black V2 is known for its mild and polished feel, providing a gentle typing experience with smooth key travel. On the other hand, the KTT MoonRosa is also described as mild and easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance and minimal force required to activate the keys. This results in a comfortable and effortless typing feel, reducing finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions.

Overall, both the Gateron Ink Black V2 and KTT MoonRosa switches offer similar subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Ink Black V2 has additional descriptors like being bassy and chirpy, both switches provide a smooth and gentle typing experience suitable for a wide range of users. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile, key feel, and any additional features each switch may offer.

Conclusion

To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the KTT MoonRosa linear switch, consider the following guidelines: If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a smooth downstroke with a rich clack sound, the Ink Black V2 would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a buttery smooth typing experience with a neutral sound signature, the MoonRosa switch would be more fitting. Additionally, if you prefer a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, the Ink Black V2 would be more appealing, while the MoonRosa switch offers a similar low-pitched sound. Lastly, if you enjoy a mild and polished typing experience, the Ink Black V2 would suit you well, whereas the MoonRosa offers a mild and easy-to-press feel. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing experience, sound profile, and bottom out force.

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