Gateron Ink Box Black vs. KTT Peach
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Black and the KTT Peach switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two options that stand out are the Gateron Ink Box Black and the KTT Peach, both of which are linear switches. The Ink Box Black is renowned for its incredible smoothness and creaminess, providing an unparalleled typing experience. Its sound signature is reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken, giving it a unique clacky and high-pitched profile. On the other hand, the Peach switch offers a syrupy smooth typing experience and a deep, thocky sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a more subdued and mellow typing sound. While both switches excel in their own right, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can make an informed decision on the best switch 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
No
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
13mm progressive spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Black and the KTT Peach differ significantly. While the Ink Box Black features a proprietary INK blend top and bottom housing, the Peach utilizes polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. The Ink Box Black's INK blend top housing is known for its pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile, which is often described as clacky. On the other hand, the Peach's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic, resulting in a clearer and more resonant sound. Therefore, the two switches produce different sound profiles, with the Ink Box Black having a slightly softer and less sharp sound compared to the Peach.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Ink Box Black's proprietary INK blend shares similar qualities with its top housing. It contributes to the switch's overall sound profile, providing a satisfying thin and higher-pitched clacky sound. In contrast, the Peach utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Thus, the Peach's bottom housing produces a noticeably different sound compared to the Ink Box Black.
When considering the overall impact on the switch's sound and feel, the housing materials play a significant role. The bottom housing has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, dictating the overall typing experience. In the case of the Ink Box Black, the combination of the proprietary INK blend top and bottom housing leads to a consistent clacky sound throughout the keystroke. Conversely, the Peach's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, offering a more satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key, providing a distinctive audio feedback upon release. Therefore, while the top and bottom housing materials of both switches differ, their impact on the sound and typing experience remains similar in terms of their respective characteristics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the KTT Peach linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Ink Box Black has an actuation force of 60 grams, which is heavier compared to the Peach's actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the Ink Box Black requires a slightly stronger push to trigger a keystroke. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Ink Box Black is 70 grams, while the Peach has a bottom out force of 53 grams. This indicates that the Ink Box Black provides a more substantial typing experience, as it requires a heavier force to fully press down on the keys. For those who prefer a lighter switch, the Peach would be a suitable choice, as its actuation and bottom out forces are lighter. However, for individuals who enjoy a stronger push feel and a more satisfying typing experience, the Ink Box Black would be the preferable option. Regardless of which switch is chosen, both switches offer distinct advantages based on individual preferences and needs.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the KTT Peach linear switch, we can see that the Ink Box Black has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Peach has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Ink Box Black being on the shallower side and the Peach being closer to the more commonly seen 4.0 mm distance. The choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference and intended use. Gamers, for example, may prefer the Ink Box Black with its shorter travel distance for faster response times. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing or pressing keys may gravitate towards the Peach and its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the decision between these switches comes down to individual preferences for responsiveness or a deeper key press experience.
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 Peach 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Ink Box Black is best described as clacky and high-pitched. When pressed, these switches produce a sharp, snappy sound that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the KTT Peach switch has a low-pitched sound profile. These switches offer a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. If you prefer a richer and bassier sound, the Peach switch would be the way to go. However, if you prefer a sharper and crisper sound, the Ink Box Black would be a better choice. It's 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 feel, the Gateron Ink Box Black switch is known for its silky and polished typing experience. These switches offer an exceptionally smooth typing feel and minimize resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The Ink Box Black switch enhances the overall smoothness of the typing experience, resulting in a sleek and refined feel. On the other hand, the KTT Peach switch offers a mild typing experience. It provides a more gentle and approachable feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. These switches strike a safe middle-ground zone that will be comfortable for most users.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Box Black and KTT Peach switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ink Box Black provides a clacky sound profile with a sharp and snappy sound, along with a silky and polished typing feel. On the other hand, the Peach switch offers a low-pitched sound profile with a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, along with a mild and gentle typing experience. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, you can choose between these two switches. However, it's important to consider other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, as they can also affect the overall experience. If you're looking for similar results, both switches offer a smooth typing experience, although the specific sound profiles may differ.
Conclusion
To sum up, when it comes to choosing between the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the KTT Peach linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. The Ink Box Black has a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a more substantial and sturdy typing experience. On the other hand, the Peach has a lighter bottom out force of 53 grams, offering a smoother and more effortless keystroke.
In terms of sound, the Ink Box Black produces a clacky and high-pitched sound, adding a sharp and percussive element to your typing. In contrast, the Peach switch has a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a more mellow and balanced tone.
In terms of feel, the Ink Box Black is described as silky and polished, ensuring an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience with minimal resistance. The Peach switch, on the other hand, offers a mild and approachable typing experience that stands in a safe middle-ground zone.
Consider your preferences and typing style when making a decision. If you prioritize a heavier and more tactile typing experience with a sharp and high-pitched sound, the Ink Box Black may be suitable for you. However, if you prefer a lighter and smoother typing experience with a mellow and balanced sound, the Peach switch might be a better choice. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what characteristics you value most in a keyboard switch.
Mentioned in this article
