Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. KTT Purple Star
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the KTT Purple Star switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Black V2 and KTT Purple Star both offer unique characteristics for different user preferences. The Ink Black V2 is a classic linear switch known for its smooth downstroke and rich clack, providing a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Purple Star switches stand out with their all-POM construction, offering a buttery smooth feel and light 45g bottom-out force, making them ideal for those who prefer a lighter keystroke. While the Ink Black V2 is praised for its low-pitched and bassy sound profile, the Purple Star shines with its easy-to-press nature and neutral sound signature. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches comes down to personal preferences and typing habits. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Black V2 and KTT Purple Star both have unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Ink Black V2 features a proprietary INK blend top housing that provides a thin and higher-pitched sound, giving it a clacky feel. In contrast, the Purple Star's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound. While both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, the difference in sound profiles can cater to different preferences based on whether you prefer a sharper, clacky sound or a deeper, more muted one.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Gateron Ink Black V2 utilizes the same proprietary INK blend as its top housing, resulting in a consistent sound profile throughout the switch. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star features a POM bottom housing, which complements the deeper and more muted sound produced by its POM top housing. This difference in bottom housing material may lead to a slightly different typing experience between the two switches, as the bottom housing can influence the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
Overall, while the Gateron Ink Black V2 and KTT Purple Star may have different top and bottom housing materials, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer a sharper, clacky sound with the INK blend housing of the Ink Black V2 or a deeper, more muted sound with the POM housing of the Purple Star, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch reveals some interesting differences. The Ink Black V2 has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. In contrast, the Purple Star features a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option overall. The lighter actuation force of the Purple Star may appeal to those who prefer a softer touch and extended typing sessions, while the heavier forces of the Ink Black V2 may suit those seeking a more substantial and tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch is 4 mm, while the KTT Purple Star linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Purple Star has a shorter travel distance compared to the Ink Black V2. The 4.0mm travel distance offered by the Ink Black V2 is more in line with traditional switch travel distances, providing a balance between depth and responsiveness. On the other hand, the 3.5mm travel distance of the Purple Star offers a slightly faster response time, which may be preferred by gamers looking for quick key presses. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and desired typing experience.
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 Purple Star 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 the KTT Purple Star switches are low-pitched, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. However, the Ink Black V2 is further characterized by its bassy and chirpy sound profile, providing a deeper and richer sound with a unique squeak during key presses. On the other hand, the Purple Star switch focuses solely on the low-pitched sound quality. Keep in mind that the actual sound produced by these switches can be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, both the Ink Black V2 and the Purple Star switches are described as mild, providing a gentle typing experience that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone. The Ink Black V2 is also noted for its polished finish, which results in a smooth and refined typing feel with reduced friction and effortless key travel. In contrast, the Purple Star switch is highlighted for being easy-to-press, requiring minimal force to activate and offering a low-impact typing experience that enhances comfort and reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the KTT Purple Star linear switches offer a smooth typing experience with a mild feel and a low-pitched sound signature. While the Ink Black V2 has a more diverse sound profile with bassy and chirpy qualities, the Purple Star switch focuses on providing a buttery smooth typing experience with a light 45g bottom-out. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, but rest assured that both options will deliver satisfying results for newcomers to the mechanical keyboard world.
Conclusion
To sum up, when it comes to choosing between the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, consider your typing preferences and needs. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a smooth downstroke with a rich clack sound, then the Ink Black V2 may be the right 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, then the Purple Star could be more suitable. Both switches offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel, so ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and typing style. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing preferences to enhance your overall typing experience.
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