Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. KTT Vanilla Ice Cream
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream. The Gateron Ink Black V2 is a classic linear switch known for its smooth downstroke and rich clack, offering a low-pitched and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch sets itself apart with a creamy and buttery feel, thanks to its unique use of POK material in both the stem and bottom housing. This switch provides a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, adding a touch of sophistication to your typing experience. Each switch offers its own distinctive characteristics, catering to different preferences and typing styles. 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
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Proprietary KTT blend
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
POK
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
Stainless steel 18mm spring
Housing materials
The comparison between the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream housing materials reveals some similarities and differences. Both switches use proprietary blends for their top housing, with the INK blend of the Ink Black V2 offering a high-pitched and clacky sound, similar to the Vanilla Ice Cream's KTT blend. However, Gateron's INK blend is noted for a pointed sound profile, while KTT's blend is described as having a higher-pitched signature.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the differences are more pronounced. The Gateron Ink Black V2 utilizes its INK blend for the bottom housing as well, contributing to a satisfying and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream features a POK bottom housing, known for its smoothness, durability, and resistance to wear and shock. While both bottom housings aim to enhance the overall feel and sound of the switch, the materials used offer distinct advantages in terms of performance and longevity.
Overall, while the top and bottom housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream differ slightly in their specific characteristics, both switches ultimately aim to provide a satisfying and clacky typing experience. The INK and KTT proprietary blends contribute to the unique sound profiles of each switch, with the bottom housing materials further enhancing factors such as smoothness, durability, and impact on sound and feel. Whether you choose the Ink Black V2 or the Vanilla Ice Cream, you can expect similar results in terms of a premium typing experience with distinct sound profiles.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, it is evident that the Vanilla Ice Cream is lighter in terms of force required. The Ink Black V2 has a higher actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it medium to heavy in terms of pressure needed. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream has a lower actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, indicating a lighter touch. For those who prefer a more substantial typing experience, the Ink Black V2 would be the better option due to its heavier forces. However, for individuals who enjoy typing for longer durations or prefer a lighter touch, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch would be the ideal choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it slightly longer than the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch which has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Ink Black V2 being on the longer side and the Vanilla Ice Cream being on the shorter side. Gamers may prefer the Vanilla Ice Cream switch for its shorter travel distance, allowing for faster response times. On the other hand, users who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key may opt for the Gateron Ink Black V2 with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and response time.
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 Vanilla Ice Cream has an MSRP of $5.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Vanilla Ice Cream for $4.60.
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 linear switch is known for its low-pitched and bassy characteristics, offering a mellow and rich tone during key presses. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch provides a contrasting high-pitched and resonant sound profile, delivering a sharp and clean auditory experience. The Ink Black V2 leans more towards a deeper sound, while the Vanilla Ice Cream offers a crisper and more vibrant tone. The choice between the two would depend on personal preference for sound, with the Ink Black V2 being more suited for those who enjoy a bass-heavy sound, and the Vanilla Ice Cream appealing to individuals who prefer a sharper and more distinct acoustical feedback.
Moving onto the feel of the switches, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch is described as mild and polished, providing a gentle and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch is characterized as buttery and creamy, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation akin to gliding fingers effortlessly across the keys. While both switches aim to provide a comfortable typing experience, the Ink Black V2 focuses on a safe and approachable middle-ground feel, whereas the Vanilla Ice Cream emphasizes a seamless and effortless typing sensation reminiscent of its creamy namesake. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would come down to whether the user prefers a more refined and polished feel or a buttery and creamy typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch offer distinct sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Ink Black V2 excels in providing a low-pitched and bassy sound with a mild and polished typing feel, while the Vanilla Ice Cream stands out with its high-pitched and resonant sound along with a buttery and creamy typing experience. Depending on whether one prioritizes sound richness or crispness, and a refined or buttery feel, each switch offers a unique typing experience that can elevate the user's mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, both switches are excellent options that will provide satisfying results based on individual preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switches, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a low-pitched, bassy sound profile with a mild and polished feel, 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 high-pitched, marbly sound profile with a buttery and creamy feel, then the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch might be more to your liking. Consider how each switch aligns with your typing style and preferences in terms of sound and feel to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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