Gateron Ink Box Black vs. KTT Pine
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Black and the KTT Pine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that often come up in discussions are the Gateron Ink Box Black and the KTT Pine. Both of these switches fall under the linear category, offering a smooth typing experience without the tactile feedback of some other switch types. The Ink Box Black is best known for its incredibly smooth and creamy feel, and its sound signature brings to mind the shaking of a spray paint can. On the other hand, the Pine switches are described as medium-heavy, buttery smooth, and built for an effortless typing experience. Thanks to their polished, factory-lubed finish, these switches minimize friction for smooth key travel. While these general descriptions can give you an idea of each switch's characteristics, it's important to dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities to determine the best switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
15.5mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Black and the KTT Pine switches differ in terms of their composition. The Ink Box Black utilizes a proprietary INK blend for both its top and bottom housing, while the Pine switch features polycarbonate for both housings. In terms of sound profile, both switches exhibit a higher-pitched characteristic, but with slight variations. The INK blend of the Ink Box Black offers a pointed and satisfying clacky sound, while the polycarbonate of the Pine switch creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, attributed to its stiffer nature. Additionally, the Pine's clear housing allows for enhanced aesthetics when paired with RGB lighting, while the Ink Box Black's INK blend remains opaque.
While the top and bottom housings of the Ink Box Black and the Pine switches differ in material, they still share similarities in their impact on the overall switch performance. The bottom housing, regardless of the housing material, has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed down. On the other hand, the top housing, which may vary in composition, has a more significant impact on the sound emitted when a key is released. Therefore, although the Ink Box Black and Pine switches utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings, their influence on keypress and release sounds remains consistent as determined by their respective housing materials.
In terms of physical appearance, the Ink Box Black features an opaque top and bottom housing due to its INK blend, while the Pine switch showcases a clear housing attributed to its polycarbonate material. The translucency provided by polycarbonate makes it an ideal choice for those intending to utilize RGB lighting effects, as it allows for the illumination to shine through the housing, creating a visually appealing display. While the INK blend of the Ink Box Black does not offer the same level of translucency, it still provides a unique aesthetic with its opaque housing. Ultimately, the choice between the Ink Box Black and the Pine switch will depend on personal preferences regarding sound profile, visual aesthetics, and the intended use of RGB lighting.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, there are some notable differences. The Ink Box Black has a slightly heavier actuation force of 60 grams, while the Pine requires a lighter force of 45 grams to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Ink Box Black is again heavier at 70 grams compared to the Pine's 58 grams. This means that the Ink Box Black provides a more substantial and tactile typing experience, suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Pine offers a lighter touch, ideal for those who prioritize longer typing sessions and a lighter overall weight. However, it is worth mentioning that both switches fall within the medium range of actuation and bottom out forces, ensuring a balanced and comfortable typing experience regardless of the choice.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT Pine linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches have shorter travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm, making them suitable for those who prioritize faster response times. Gamers, in particular, often prefer shorter travel distances for quicker reactions. However, it is important to note that the Ink Box Black has a slightly shorter travel distance than the Pine, offering even faster responsiveness. On the other hand, if a deeper key press is desired, the Pine with its slightly longer travel distance may be a better choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preference for either a shorter and more responsive key press or a slightly deeper and more deliberate keystroke.
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 Pine has an MSRP of $4.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $4.15.
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 linear switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile. When pressed, it produces a sharp and snappy sound, reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken. On the other hand, the KTT Pine linear switch has a bassy and low-pitched sound. It offers a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. If you prefer a crisp and bright sound, the Ink Box Black is a great choice. However, if you prefer a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, the Pine switch would be more suitable. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch offers a silky and polished typing experience. It is exceptionally smooth and minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. This switch has a refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. The Pine linear switch, on the other hand, provides a buttery and creamy typing experience. It offers a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. With the Ink Box Black, you can expect a smooth and refined feeling as your fingers glide across the keys, while the Pine switch provides an easy and smooth keystroke, almost melting into each keystroke. Both switches prioritize smoothness and reduced friction, ensuring a comfortable typing experience.
Based on the available information, the Gateron Ink Box Black and the KTT Pine linear switches offer different subjective qualities. The Ink Box Black has a clacky and high-pitched sound, providing a sharp and snappy sound experience. It also offers a silky and polished feel, with an exceptionally smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Pine switch has a bassy and low-pitched sound, offering a deeper and richer sound profile. Its feel is described as buttery and creamy, providing a seamless and effortless typin
Conclusion
To conclude, if you are looking for a slightly heavier switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch would be a great choice. These switches are incredibly smooth and creamy, providing a silky typing experience. The sound of the Ink Box Black switch is described as clacky and high-pitched, offering a crisp and bright sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force, the KTT Pine linear switch would be a suitable option. Known for their buttery smoothness, these switches provide an effortless and uniform typing sensation. The sound of the Pine switch is described as bassy and low-pitched, offering a deeper and richer sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your preferred weight, smoothness, and sound profile.
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