Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. KTT Orange
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the KTT Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the KTT Orange, two mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique typing experiences. The Ink Black V2 is a classic linear switch loved by the community for its smooth downstroke and satisfying clack. With a low-pitched sound profile and a mild, polished feel, this switch provides an enjoyable typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Orange Switches feature a bouncy type feel, thanks to their 22mm long spring. These switches offer a slick and frictionless typing experience, with a low-pitched sound profile. The factory-lubing ensures refined and fluid key travel, minimizing friction and maximizing smoothness. Both switches have their own distinctive characteristics, allowing you to choose based on personal preference. 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
46g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the KTT Orange switches differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Ink Black V2 utilizes a proprietary INK blend for both its top and bottom housings, which creates a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile described as clacky. In comparison, the Orange switch incorporates polycarbonate material for both its top and bottom housings, producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Both switches feature transparency in their top housings, making them suitable for RGB lighting. Despite their differences, both switches offer a satisfying sound experience with their respective housing materials.
While the Gateron Ink Black V2 and KTT Orange switches have varying top and bottom housing materials, the qualities of each housing material contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switch. When pressing down on a switch, the bottom housing plays a more significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel. Therefore, the qualities of the Ink Black V2's proprietary INK blend or the Orange's polycarbonate bottom housing will be experienced during key presses. On the other hand, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when letting go of a key, influencing the overall sound profile of the switch.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Black V2 and KTT Orange switches differ in their housing materials, leading to distinct sound profiles. The Ink Black V2's proprietary INK blend provides a satisfying clacky sound, while the Orange's polycarbonate material produces a sharper and crisper sound. However, both switches offer clear and resonant qualities with their respective housing materials. The split between the top and bottom housings also allows for differentiation in the sound and feel of the switches depending on the specific material utilized.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, there are noticeable differences in weight. The Ink Black V2 has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it medium-heavy. On the other hand, the Orange switch has a lighter actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, categorizing it as medium-light.
This disparity in weight can greatly affect the typing experience for individuals. Those who prefer a lighter feel may opt for the Orange switch, as the lower actuation force allows for longer periods of comfortable typing. This lighter option is suitable for those who bring their keyboard to work or engage in extended gaming sessions.
In contrast, the heavier force of the Ink Black V2 provides a more substantial typing experience for users who prefer a stronger push feel. This can be advantageous for individuals who desire a more pronounced tactile feedback with each keystroke.
It is important to note that regardless of the weight difference, both switches will deliver similar results in terms of triggering keystrokes. However, the preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience should guide the choice between these two options.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, it is evident that the Ink Black V2 has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Orange has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Ink Black V2 falls into the category of a more traditional travel distance of 4.0 mm, whereas the Orange switch offers a shallower distance of 3.5 mm. It is important to note that shorter travel distances are becoming increasingly popular, particularly among gamers who prioritize faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive typing experience, the Orange switch would be the preferable choice due to its shorter travel distance. However, it is worth mentioning that some individuals may find shorter travel distances too abrupt and may prefer the deeper feel provided by the Ink Black V2's longer travel distance. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preference and typing style.
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 Orange has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange for $4.15.
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
The Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch is known for its smooth downstroke and rich clack, providing a satisfying typing experience. It has a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, with a slight chirpy sound that sets it apart from other switches. The feel of the Ink Black V2 can be described as mild and polished, offering a gentle and approachable typing experience. The switch has reduced friction and smooth key travel, resulting in a sleek and refined feel.
On the other hand, the KTT Orange linear switch features a 22mm long spring, giving it a bouncy type feel. It has a polycarbonate milky top housing, long pole POM stem, and a vivid orange nylon bottom housing, providing a slick and frictionless typing experience. The sound profile of the Orange switch is low-pitched, similar to the Ink Black V2, offering a bass-heavy and mellow tone.
Based on the available information, both switches have similarities in terms of their low-pitched sound profile, which provides a bass-heavy and mellow tone during key presses. They also share qualities such as a smooth and refined typing experience, with minimized friction and smooth key travel. While the Ink Black V2 has a slight chirpy sound and a mild feel, the KTT Orange switch offers a bouncy and frictionless typing experience.
Overall, both switches offer subjective qualities that can result in a satisfying typing experience. Depending on the user's preference for sound and feel, they can choose between the Ink Black V2 for a smooth and polished experience with a rich clack, or the KTT Orange for a bouncy and frictionless typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the KTT Orange linear switches, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Ink Black V2 with its 70 grams is a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force, the Orange switch with its 53 grams would be more fitting.
In terms of sound, both switches have a low-pitched tone. However, the Ink Black V2 offers a bassy and possibly chirpy sound, while the Orange switch provides a low-pitched sound profile. Consider your preference for a deeper and richer sound versus a potentially unique acoustic signature when making your decision.
Regarding feel, the Ink Black V2 is described as mild and polished, offering a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Orange switch, on the other hand, is bouncy and frictionless, providing a lively and effortless typing sensation.
Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. Whether you prioritize a smoother downstroke, a bouncy typing experience, a particular sound profile, or any other factors, carefully consider these elements to choose the switch that best suits your needs and typing style.
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