Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. KTT Sea Salt Lemon
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon, two mechanical keyboard switches that are both linear in nature but offer distinct qualities. The Ink Black V2 is a classic linear switch that has been cherished by the keyboard community for its smooth downstroke and satisfying clack. With a characteristically low-pitched, bassy, and chirpy sound profile, this switch is perfect for those who enjoy a polished feel while typing. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemon, created by KTT, embraces a different approach to linear switches. Renowned for their progressive spring and dry-lube design, these switches provide a buttery smooth typing experience. Characterized by a low-pitched, neutral, and mild sound profile, the Sea Salt Lemon switch offers a different level of comfort and satisfaction. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
53g
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
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
13mm progressive spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches have distinct differences. The Ink Black V2 features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which is described as having a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. It is often described as clacky. In contrast, the Sea Salt Lemon has a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate's stiffness leads to a clear and resonant sound. Therefore, aesthetically, the Sea Salt Lemon is more suited for RGB lighting due to its translucent housing, while the Ink Black V2 provides a satisfying clacky sound.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the Ink Black V2 and the Sea Salt Lemon also differ. The Ink Black V2 uses the same proprietary INK blend in its bottom housing, resulting in a similar pointed and high-pitched sound profile as the top housing. However, the Sea Salt Lemon utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, the Ink Black V2 offers a consistent sound profile throughout the switch, while the Sea Salt Lemon delivers a deeper and fuller sound when typing.
Overall, the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon provide distinct sounds and characteristics to each switch. The INK blend in the Ink Black V2 offers a satisfying and clacky sound profile, both in the top and bottom housing. In contrast, the Sea Salt Lemon's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound, ideal for RGB lighting, while its nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the Ink Black V2 for a consistent clacky sound or the Sea Salt Lemon for a sharper and fuller typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, there are noticeable differences in weight. The Ink Black V2 has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams, meaning it requires a bit more force to trigger a keystroke. The bottom out force for the Ink Black V2 is also heavier at 70 grams. For those who prefer a substantial typing experience, the Ink Black V2 would be a suitable choice with its medium-heavy forces.
On the other hand, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon offers a lighter feel with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, which is categorized as medium-light. This lighter weight can be advantageous for individuals who type for longer periods of time or engage in extended gaming sessions. The Sea Salt Lemon provides a smoother and more effortless typing experience due to its lower forces.
In summary, while the Gateron Ink Black V2 offers a heavier and more substantial feel with its actuation and bottom out forces, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon provides a lighter and smoother typing experience. The choice between the two switches ultimately depends on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will feel a consistent 4 mm of travel distance from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches will provide similar results and 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 Sea Salt Lemon comes in at $2.80 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 Sea Salt Lemon switches are described as having a low-pitched tone. This means they have a more bass-heavy and mellow sound compared to higher-pitched switches. However, the Ink Black V2 is also described as "bassy," offering a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemon is described as "neutral," which means it has a moderate sound profile suitable for most purposes. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors like the keyboard and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, both the Ink Black V2 and the Sea Salt Lemon switches are described as having a mild typing experience. This means they offer a more gentle feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. They both provide a safe and approachable middle-ground typing experience. The Ink Black V2 is also described as "polished," indicating that it has a smooth and refined finish resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Unfortunately, there is no additional information provided about the feel of the Sea Salt Lemon switch.
Based on the available information, it can be concluded that both the Gateron Ink Black V2 and KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches offer smooth and gentle linear typing experiences. They have similar low-pitched sound profiles, although the Ink Black V2 may provide a deeper and richer sound due to its "bassy" nature. Both switches are appropriate for most intents and purposes, making them suitable for both beginners and advanced users alike. However, if you prefer a more polished feel, the Ink Black V2 may be the better choice. As with any switch, the overall experience will also depend on factors such as your choice of keyboard and keycaps.
Conclusion
In closing, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch is the ideal choice for those who prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams. Its smooth downstroke and rich clack make it a beloved option among the community. Additionally, if you enjoy low-pitched, bassy, and slightly chirpy sound profiles during keystrokes, the Ink Black V2 will provide a unique and satisfying auditory experience. Moreover, its mild feel and polished finish ensure a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch is best suited for those seeking a medium-light bottom out force of 53 grams. Renowned for its progressive spring and dry-lube design, this switch delivers a buttery smooth typing experience. It offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, appealing to a wide range of keyboard enthusiasts. With a mild feel and approachable qualities, the Sea Salt Lemon switch provides a pleasant typing experience that caters to beginners and advanced users alike. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on your preferred bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel.
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