Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. KTT Semi Mute
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the KTT Semi Mute switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the KTT Semi Mute both offer impressive features for different preferences. The Ink Black V2 is a classic linear switch that has gained a strong following within the community. Known for its smooth downstroke and satisfying clack, this switch provides a pleasurable typing experience. On the other hand, the Semi Mute switches, despite their name, are completely silent, making them ideal for individuals who prioritize a noise-free environment, especially during late-night sessions. With their linear actuation and advanced dampening technology, the KTT Semi Mute switches offer a comfortable and gratifying typing feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these 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
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Black V2 and the KTT Semi Mute have different housing materials that contribute to the sound profile of the switches. The Ink Black V2's proprietary INK blend uses a top housing made of the INK blend material. It is described as having a thin and higher-pitched sound profile, characterized as clacky. In contrast, the Semi Mute features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate gives the Semi Mute a translucent appearance, making it ideal for use with RGB lighting. While both switches have different materials for their top housings, they both result in a high-pitched sound profile.
Similarly, the bottom housings of the two switches also differ in material. The Ink Black V2 utilizes the proprietary INK blend material for its bottom housing, which contributes to the pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. This thin and clacky sound is associated with the INK blend material. On the other hand, the Semi Mute features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the switch's sound. While the two switches have different materials for their bottom housings, both contribute to a high-pitched sound profile.
It is important to note that the top and bottom housings play distinct roles in the overall sound profile of a switch. Pressing down on a switch allows you to feel the impact and qualities of the bottom housing, which affects the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing has a more significant impact on the sound when a key is released. This means that the differences in housing materials could result in varied tactile and auditory experiences when using the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the KTT Semi Mute switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, there are notable differences. The Ink Black V2 has a slightly heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Semi Mute's lighter actuation force of 43 grams. This means that the Ink Black V2 requires more force to trigger a keystroke. Similarly, in terms of bottom out force, the Ink Black V2 is heavier with a force of 70 grams, while the Semi Mute is slightly lighter with a force of 58 grams. This indicates that the Ink Black V2 provides a more substantial typing experience, requiring a stronger push feel, while the Semi Mute offers a lighter touch. However, it is important to note that both switches fall within the medium range of actuation and bottom out forces, ensuring a comfortable typing experience for most users. Therefore, if one desires a more lightweight switch for extended periods of typing or gaming, the Semi Mute would be a suitable choice. Conversely, if a user prefers a heavier switch for a more solid tactile feedback, the Ink Black V2 would be the better option.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on either switch, you will feel a consistent 4 mm of movement from the top to the bottom. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of the travel distance between these two switches. Both switches offer a satisfying tactile feedback with the same travel distance, allowing for precise and comfortable typing 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 Semi Mute has an MSRP of $3.97 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi Mute for $3.55.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Ink Black V2 switch is known for its low-pitched and bassy characteristics. These switches have a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Additionally, they also have a unique chirpy feature that sets them apart from other switches. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute switch is designed to produce a muted and softer sound compared to regular switches. It minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards, providing a quieter typing experience. The Semi Mute switch has a more neutral sound profile, suitable for most users and environments. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Ink Black V2 switch offers a mild and polished typing experience. The mild characteristic indicates a more gentle typing sensation, suitable for most users as it falls within a safe and middle-ground zone. The switch also has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. This smooth and refined feel contributes to a sleek typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute switch provides a buttery and mild typing experience. The buttery characteristic indicates a smooth and fluid keystroke, offering a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Similar to the Ink Black V2, the Semi Mute switch also falls within the mild category, providing a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users.
Taking all of the available information into account, it is clear that the Gateron Ink Black V2 and KTT Semi Mute switches offer different qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ink Black V2 switch is known for its low-pitched, bassy sound and mild, polished feel. On the other hand, the Semi Mute switch is designed to provide a muted and softer sound, along with a buttery and mild typing experience. Depending on the user's preferences, the Ink Black V2 switch may be more suitable for those who enjoy a deeper and richer sound, while the Semi Mute switch may be preferred by those who prioritize a noise-free environment and desire a smooth and fluid keystroke. Both switches offer their unique features, ensuring an enjoyable typing experience for different user preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, if you prioritize a noise-free environment and undisturbed typing, especially during late-night sessions, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. With its advanced dampening technology and completely silent operation, these switches provide a comfortable and gratifying typing feel. The Semi Mute switch also offers a moderate sound profile, making it suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user and whether you plan to use them at home or work. Additionally, if you prefer a buttery and fluid keystroke experience, the Semi Mute switch will provide a seamless and effortless typing sensation.
On the other hand, if you value a classic linear switch with a smooth downstroke and a rich clack, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch would be a great choice. With its medium-heavy bottom out force and low-pitched, bassy sound profile, these switches offer a deeper and richer sound during key presses. The Ink Black V2 switch also provides a mild and polished typing experience, with a gentle and approachable feel that is suitable for most users.
Ultimately, the decision between the Gateron Ink Black V2 and KTT Semi Mute switches comes down to your personal preferences and priorities. Consider factors such as noise level, typing feel, and sound profile when selecting the switch that best suits your needs. Happy typing!
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