Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. KTT Strawberry

Overview

Introducing the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the KTT Strawberry mechanical keyboard switches, two linear switches that offer distinct features and experiences. The Ink Black V2, a long-time community favorite, is renowned for its smooth downstroke and rich clack, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a satisfying and tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Strawberry switch stands out with its attractive pink and clear housings, delivering not only a smooth actuation but also a comfortable feel and reliable performance. While the Ink Black V2 is categorized as low-pitched, bassy, chirpy, mild, and polished, the Strawberry switch offers a different set of characteristics, being categorized as low-pitched, frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished. These general pointers give you an idea of the key qualities of each switch. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your specific needs and preferences.

By the numbers

Gateron Ink Black V2 Linear

KTT Strawberry Linear

$7.50

$7.24 per 10

$4.91 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the KTT Strawberry differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Ink Black V2 features a proprietary INK blend top and bottom housing, which creates a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound. On the other hand, the Strawberry incorporates polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate, being a relatively stiffer plastic, produces a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it particularly advantageous for the top housing of the Strawberry if RGB lighting is intended to be used.

While the sound profiles of the Ink Black V2's INK blend and the Strawberry's polycarbonate top housings differ slightly, both materials offer a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound that is not overly sharp. The INK blend is often described as clacky, while the polycarbonate top housing creates a crisper sound profile. However, aesthetically speaking, both switches with their respective clear housings provide an appealing visual element, especially when paired with RGB lighting.

When it comes to the bottom housing, the differences between the INK blend and polycarbonate materials are less apparent. Both contribute to the overall sound profile of a switch, but the bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed. Conversely, the top housing plays a more substantial role in the sound produced when a key is released. Therefore, while the specific materials may differ, the general principles of housing materials remain consistent in terms of their effects on sound during both key press and release actions.

Weight

When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, some key differences can be observed. The actuation force of the Ink Black V2 is 60 grams, while the Strawberry requires a lighter 43 grams for actuation. This means that the Strawberry switch will feel more responsive and sensitive, requiring less force to register a keystroke. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2 provides a stronger push feel with its heavier actuation force.

Moving on to the bottom out force, the Ink Black V2 requires 70 grams of force to fully depress the switch, whereas the Strawberry switch has a slightly lighter force of 62 grams. This means that typing on the Strawberry switch will require slightly less effort to fully press down the keys, resulting in a lighter and potentially more comfortable typing experience. In contrast, the Ink Black V2 will provide a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force.

Considering weight preferences, those who prefer a lighter typing experience for prolonged periods of use may lean towards the Strawberry switch, as its lower actuation and bottom out forces allow for easier and smoother typing. On the other hand, users who enjoy a stronger push feel and desire a more substantial typing experience may find the Ink Black V2 more suitable.

Overall, while both switches offer a medium-level actuation and bottom out force, the differences in force required for both switches result in variations in typing experience. Ultimately, individual preferences and typing styles will play a crucial role in deciding which switch is better suited for each user.

Travel distance

The Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the KTT Strawberry 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 experience a consistent 4 mm of travel distance. Whether you choose to use the Ink Black V2 or the Strawberry switch, you can expect similar results in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. Both switches provide a comfortable and smooth typing experience with their identical travel distances. Therefore, it can be concluded that there is no difference in the travel distance between these two switches.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, both the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the KTT Strawberry switches are described as having a low-pitched sound profile. This means that they feature a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. However, the Ink Black V2 is also described as "bassy" and "chirpy," which gives it a deeper and richer sound with a unique acoustic signature that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the sound of the Strawberry switch is not specifically mentioned besides its low-pitched nature. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the Ink Black V2 switch is described as "mild" and "polished." This means that it offers a gentle typing experience with a safe middle-ground zone in terms of its characteristics. It has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Similarly, the Strawberry switch is described as "frictionless," "silky," "buttery," and "polished." This indicates that it offers an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance or friction when pressing the keys. The Strawberry switch enhances the overall smoothness of the typing feel and provides a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. Both switches offer a comfortable feel, but the Strawberry switch emphasizes a more frictionless and silky experience.

In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the KTT Strawberry switches have some similarities and differences in terms of their subjective qualities. When it comes to sound, both switches have a low-pitched profile, but the Ink Black V2 also offers a deeper and richer sound with a unique chirpy quality. In terms of feel, both switches provide a smooth and polished typing experience, but the Strawberry switch emphasizes a more frictionless and silky feel. Both switches can offer a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience, but the Strawberry switch might provide a slightly smoother and effortless sensation. It's important to consider personal preferences and other factors such as keyboard setup when choosing between these switches.

Conclusion

In closing, when choosing between the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preferences and priorities. If you prefer a slightly heavier switch with a bottom out force of 70 grams, then the Ink Black V2 may be the better choice for you. It is known for its smooth downstroke and rich clack, providing a classic linear switch experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch with a bottom out force of 62 grams, then the Strawberry switch may be more suitable. It is loved for its smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance.

In terms of sound, both switches have a low-pitched profile, with the Ink Black V2 having additional descriptors like bassy and chirpy. If you enjoy a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses, the Ink Black V2 may be more to your liking. However, if you prefer a mellow and bass-heavy tone, the Strawberry switch will satisfy your sound preferences.

When it comes to feel, the Ink Black V2 offers a mild and polished typing experience. It falls in a safe middle-ground zone, allowing for a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Strawberry switch offers a frictionless, silky, and buttery typing experience. If you prioritize an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience, the Strawberry switch may be the better option for you.

Overall, both switches have their own unique characteristics and strengths. Consider your desired bottom-out force, sound profile, and feel when making your decision. Ultimately, it's important to try out and experiment with different switches to find the one that suits your needs and preferences the best.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Ink Black V2 Linear

$7.50

$7.24 per 10

Learn more

KTT Strawberry Linear

$4.91 per 10

Learn more