Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. KTT Rose
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the KTT Rose switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing two popular mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the KTT Rose. The Ink Black V2 is a beloved linear switch known for its smooth downstroke and satisfying clack. With its low-pitched, bassy sound profile, this switch offers a classic typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Rose boasts beauty and functionality. These linear switches are equipped with progressive springs, providing a substantial yet not heavy feel while typing. Users rave about the bassy raindrop-like sound they produce. Both switches fall under the categories of low-pitched, mild, and polished, but the Rose switch adds a touch of neutrality. However, let's delve deeper to help you make an informed decision about which switch suits you best.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the KTT Rose differ significantly. The Ink Black V2 utilizes a proprietary INK blend for its top housing, which creates a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. This results in a satisfying, clacky sound that is not overly sharp. On the other hand, the Rose features a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a clearer and more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for those who plan to use RGB lighting.
In terms of the bottom housing, both switches have different materials. The Ink Black V2 utilizes its proprietary INK blend, which offers a thin, higher-pitched sound. Meanwhile, the Rose incorporates a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, there is a clear distinction between the sound produced by the bottom housing of each switch.
It's important to note that the top and bottom housing materials play a significant role in different aspects of the switch's performance. When pressing down on a switch, the qualities of the bottom housing are felt, which influences the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing has a more notable impact on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while there may be differences in the materials used for the housing, the overall performance of both switches can still yield similar results depending on the user's preference for the sound profile during key press and release.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch, a few key differences emerge. Firstly, the actuation force for the Ink Black V2 is known to be 60 grams, whereas the actuation force for the Rose switch is unavailable. This lack of information makes it challenging to compare the two directly in terms of actuation force. However, both switches can still deliver similar results in terms of responsiveness and typing experience.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Ink Black V2 has a bottom out force of 70 grams, which is slightly heavier than the Rose switch's bottom out force of 63.5 grams. This means that the Ink Black V2 provides a slightly more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel when compared to the Rose switch.
Considering weight as a factor, those who prefer a lighter switch may find themselves leaning towards the Ink Black V2, as its actuation and bottom out forces are moderate. This lighter weight allows for comfortable and extended typing sessions, making it ideal for both professional use and lengthy gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who desire a more robust typing experience may gravitate towards the Rose switch. The heavier bottom out force of the Ink Black V2 ensures a more pronounced keypress, providing a satisfying tactile experience for those who value a stronger push feel.
In summary, while the actuation force for the Rose switch remains unknown, the Ink Black V2 offers a medium-heavy actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams. In contrast, the Rose switch has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it slightly lighter. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch plays a significant role in the overall typing experience and tactile feedback. Both the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch have a similar travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, users will feel a consistent movement of 4 mm from the top of the switch to the bottom. Therefore, the distance traveled for both switches is equal, ensuring a comparable typing experience in terms of travel distance.
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 Rose comes in at $3.01 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
The Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch is known for its smooth downstroke and rich clack sound. It has a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, offering a deeper and mellow tone during key presses. These switches also have a unique acoustic signature, described as chirpy, adding a slight squeak to the sound. On the other hand, the KTT Rose linear switch is praised for its beautiful appearance and the use of progressive springs, which provide a substantial typing experience without feeling heavy. The sound of the Rose switches is described as low-pitched and neutral, offering a bass-heavy and mellow tone, suitable for various usage scenarios.
When it comes to feel, both the Ink Black V2 and the Rose switches offer a mild typing experience. A mild switch provides a gentle and approachable feel to most users, without any pronounced characteristics. Additionally, both switches are described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience. This can be attributed to the materials used and/or factory lubing, which help reduce friction and promote smooth key travel.
To summarize, the Gateron Ink Black V2 and KTT Rose linear switches have similar subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. Both switches offer a low-pitched sound profile with a bass-heavy and mellow tone during key presses. They also provide a mild typing experience with a polished finish, ensuring a smooth and refined feel. These switches can be suitable for various typing preferences and purposes. It is important to note that the actual sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a classic and smooth linear switch with a satisfying clack, the Gateron Ink Black V2 is the way to go. With a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams, it offers a moderately heavy typing experience. Its sound profile is characterized by a low-pitched and bassy tone, with a unique chirpy sound. The Ink Black V2 also provides a mild and polished feel, ensuring a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you're seeking a switch that offers a unique and substantial typing experience, the KTT Rose linear switch is worth considering. With a slightly lighter bottom out force of 63.5 grams, it provides a similar medium-heavy typing experience. The Rose switch is known for its beautiful design and the use of progressive springs, resulting in a bassy raindrop-like sound when typing. In terms of feel, it offers the same mild and polished experience as the Ink Black V2, ensuring a comfortable and smooth typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the KTT Rose linear switch will depend on your personal preferences. If you value a classic and smooth switch with a rich clack, the Ink Black V2 is a reliable option. However, if you're looking for a uniquely substantial typing experience with a beautiful design, the Rose switch is a compelling choice. Consider your desired bottom out force, sound profile, and feel when making your decision.
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