Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. KTT Wine Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the KTT Wine Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing two highly popular mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the KTT Wine Red. The Ink Black V2 is a classic linear switch that has been a favorite among the community for quite some time. With its smooth downstroke and rich clack, this switch offers a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Wine Red switches are known for their intoxicating feel and deep, rich sound profile. Typing on them feels pillowy light, adding to the overall typing pleasure. While the Ink Black V2 is categorized as low-pitched, bassy, chirpy, mild, and polished, the Wine Red switch falls under the categories of bassy and low-pitched. Both switches offer unique qualities and deciding on the best one for you will require delving deeper into their specific features and characteristics. So, let's dive into the details to help you make an informed choice.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
44g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Black V2 and KTT Wine Red differ in their housing materials. The Ink Black V2 features a proprietary INK blend top and bottom housing. This gives it a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile, described as clacky. On the other hand, the Wine Red utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housing. This results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. Additionally, the Wine Red's clear housing allows for the use of RGB lighting, making it aesthetically pleasing for those who prioritize visual effects.
While the materials used for the top and bottom housings are different between the two switches, both the Ink Black V2 and the Wine Red offer similar characteristics in terms of sound. The pointed and high-pitched sound profile of the INK blend used in the Ink Black V2's top and bottom housing is comparable to the sharper and higher-pitched sound profile of the polycarbonate used in the Wine Red's top and bottom housing. In essence, users can expect relatively similar results in terms of sound experience from both switches.
However, it is important to note that the bottom housing has a more significant impact on the sound and feel when the key is bottomed out, while the top housing plays a larger role in the sound when releasing the key. This means that even though the housing materials may be different, both the Ink Black V2 and the Wine Red will provide distinct sound characteristics during both pressing and releasing of the keys. Understanding this difference can help users choose the switch that best suits their preferred typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Ink Black V2 has a higher actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Wine Red's 44 grams, making the Ink Black V2 require a slightly stronger push to trigger a keystroke. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Ink Black V2 is also heavier at 70 grams compared to the Wine Red's 55 grams. This means that the Ink Black V2 provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, whereas the Wine Red offers a lighter touch for smoother and potentially faster keystrokes.
For those who prefer a lighter weight and a prolonged typing experience, the Wine Red would be a suitable choice as its lower actuation and bottom out forces allow for longer periods of typing without fatigue. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial feel and a stronger push might find the Ink Black V2 to be their preferred option. However, it's worth noting that both switches fall within the medium weight category, so they provide a decent balance between light and heavy forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch is 4 mm, while the KTT Wine Red linear switch also has a travel distance of 4 mm. Therefore, both switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either switch, the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom will be identical, resulting in similar tactile feedback for the user.
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 Wine Red comes in at $2.71 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
In terms of sound, both the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch offer a bassy and low-pitched sound profile. These switches provide a deeper and richer sound during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. The Ink Black V2 is also described as having a slightly chirpy acoustic signature, giving it a unique sound compared to other switches. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Ink Black V2 is described as offering a mild and polished typing experience. A mild switch provides a gentle typing experience without too pronounced characteristics, making it approachable for most users. Additionally, the Ink Black V2 has a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Unfortunately, there is no available information on the specific feel of the KTT Wine Red switch.
Based on the available information, both switches share similar qualities in terms of sound, with a bassy and low-pitched profile. However, the Ink Black V2 has a unique chirpy acoustic signature, setting it apart. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2 excels in terms of feel, offering a mild and polished typing experience. It is important to consider other factors such as personal preferences, keyboard board, keycaps, and any potential undisclosed qualities of the KTT Wine Red switch when making a decision.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy switch with a smooth downstroke and a rich clack sound, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch is the way to go. It offers a mild and polished typing experience, making it approachable and sleek. The sound profile of the Ink Black V2 is low-pitched, bassy, and chirpy, providing a unique acoustic signature.
On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light switch with a pillowy light type feel and a satisfyingly deep and rich sound profile, then the KTT Wine Red linear switch is the one for you. While we don't have specific information about its feel, the Wine Red is also described as low-pitched and bassy in terms of sound, similar to the Ink Black V2.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the KTT Wine Red boils down to personal preference. Consider factors such as bottom out force, sound profile, and overall typing experience to determine which switch aligns better with your preferences. Both switches have their own unique characteristics and are popular choices within the mechanical keyboard community.
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