Gateron Ink Box Black vs. KTT Mint
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Black and the KTT Mint switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Ink Box Black and the KTT Mint. The Ink Box Black is best known for its incredibly smooth and creamy feel, with a sound signature reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken. On the other hand, the Mint offers a satisfyingly smooth linear switch experience, with a unique poppy thockiness due to its long pole stem. Both switches offer a polished typing experience, but the Ink Box Black is described as clacky and high-pitched, while the Mint is characterized as low-pitched and neutral. Ultimately, while these generalities provide a quick glimpse into each switch, let's dive in a bit deeper to better understand which one is the best fit for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Black and the KTT Mint differ significantly. The Ink Box Black features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is described as clacky. On the other hand, the Mint utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound profile. Additionally, the polycarbonate top housing is translucent, making it suitable for use with RGB lighting. In terms of aesthetics, the Mint's polycarbonate top housing brings a unique visual appeal.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Gateron Ink Box Black and the KTT Mint continue to demonstrate contrast in their housing materials. The Ink Box Black features a proprietary INK blend bottom housing that contributes to its pointed and high-pitched sound profile. This thin and clacky sound is generated when the switch is pressed down. In contrast, the Mint utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound quality. The nylon bottom housing of the Mint provides a distinct typing experience with a satisfying auditory feedback.
It is important to note that the impact of the housing materials can vary depending on whether they are used in the top or bottom housing of the switch. When pressing down on either switch, the qualities of the bottom housing will be prominent, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will have a greater influence on the sound produced when the key is released. While the Ink Box Black and Mint differ in their housing materials, both switches offer unique characteristics and auditory experiences based on their individual housing compositions.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch differ in terms of weight. The Ink Box Black has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. On the other hand, the Mint switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 53 grams, resulting in a medium-light touch. These weight differences offer distinct preferences for keyboard users. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Mint switch, allowing them to type for longer periods comfortably. This is particularly advantageous for individuals who use their keyboards extensively for work or in extended gaming sessions. Conversely, individuals seeking a more substantial and tactile feel may favor the Ink Box Black switch, which requires a stronger push force. By considering the weight of the switches, users can make an informed decision based on their personal typing preferences.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT Mint linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Mint switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Ink Box Black. When it comes to travel distance, 4.0 mm is considered the most traditional, while 3.0 mm is the most shallow. However, shorter travel distances are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers who prioritize faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive typing experience, you may prefer the Ink Box Black with its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper key press and a more substantial feel, the KTT Mint with its longer travel distance may be the better choice for you. Ultimately, it boils down to personal preference and your specific typing needs. Both switches offer different feels and experiences, allowing you to select the one that suits you best.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Box Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Box Black for $7.65.
The KTT Mint comes in at $2.91 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
The Gateron Ink Box Black and KTT Mint linear switches have different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ink Box Black switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Mint switch has a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone.
When it comes to feel, both switches share the quality of having a polished finish. This results in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Ink Box Black is described as silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimized resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Similarly, the Mint switch provides a mild and gentle typing experience, making it approachable to most users.
Based on the information provided, the Ink Box Black and Mint switches differ in terms of sound, with the former being clacky and high-pitched while the latter has a low-pitched and neutral sound profile. However, both switches provide a polished and smooth typing feel, enhancing overall smoothness and reducing friction.
It is important to note that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Therefore, it is recommended to consider these factors alongside the subjective qualities of the switches when making a decision.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy switch with a smooth and creamy feel, as well as a clacky and high-pitched sound, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch is the way to go. These switches provide a satisfyingly smooth typing experience and produce a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. With their silky and polished feel, they minimize resistance and offer a sleek typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light switch with a light and fleeting type feel, as well as a low-pitched and neutral sound, the KTT Mint linear switch is the better choice. These switches have a long pole stem that adds a poppy thockiness to your typing and a more mellow and bass-heavy tone. They offer a mild and polished feel, making them approachable and suitable for most users. Ultimately, the decision between the Gateron Ink Box Black and the KTT Mint depends on your preference for bottom out force, sound signature, and typing feel. Overall, both switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences.
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