Gateron Ink Box Black vs. KTT Wine Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Black and the KTT Wine Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that come to mind are the Gateron Ink Box Black and the KTT Wine Red. These switches both fall under the category of linear switches, but they offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Ink Box Blacks are commonly praised for their incredibly smooth and creamy feel when pressed, accompanied by a unique sound signature that resembles a shaking spray paint can. In contrast, the Wine Red switches provide a pillowy light typing experience and a satisfyingly deep and rich sound profile. While generalities can give us a sense of what to expect from each switch, it's important to delve deeper into their specific qualities to determine which one suits you best.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
44g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Black and the KTT Wine Red, both switches have distinct characteristics. The Ink Box Black features a proprietary INK blend top and bottom housing, which results in 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 housings, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to polycarbonate's stiffness, providing a clear and resonant sound. However, if you're looking for a switch with a clear housing to leverage RGB lighting, both switches offer this feature with their transparent polycarbonate top housings.
In terms of the bottom housing, both switches share similar characteristics due to the use of either the proprietary INK blend or polycarbonate material. This results in a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is often described as clacky. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when it is pressed down. With their respective housing materials, the bottom housings of both switches contribute to creating a satisfying and distinctive sound.
On the other hand, the top housing material differs between the Gateron Ink Box Black and the KTT Wine Red. The Ink Box Black features its proprietary INK blend top housing, which produces a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound that is not overly sharp. In contrast, the Wine Red's polycarbonate top housing results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. When it comes to releasing a key, the top housing plays a more significant role in determining the sound. Therefore, the housing material of the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound experience when compared between the two switches.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Ink Box Black and the KTT Wine Red differ in their housing materials, they share similarities in their bottom housing characteristics. The bottom housings of both switches contribute to a pointed and high-pitched sound profile. However, the top housings vary, with the Ink Box Black providing a thinner and less sharp sound, while the Wine Red's polycarbonate top housing delivers a sharper and crisper sound. These distinctions highlight how the housing materials influence the overall sound profile and tactile experience of each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, there are some notable differences. The Ink Box Black has a higher actuation force, requiring 60 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, compared to the Wine Red's lighter actuation force of 44 grams. This means that the Ink Box Black has a slightly stronger push feel when typing.
In terms of bottom out force, the Ink Box Black is also heavier with a force of 70 grams, while the Wine Red has a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that typing or pressing all the way down on the Ink Box Black will require a slightly heavier force compared to the Wine Red.
Considering weight, some individuals may prefer a lighter switch like the Wine Red as it enables them to type for longer periods of time without experiencing fatigue. This makes it suitable for tasks such as bringing a keyboard to work or engaging in extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for a switch with a heavier force.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch is heavier in both actuation force and bottom out force compared to the KTT Wine Red linear switch. However, it's worth noting that both switches fall into the medium category, with one being medium-heavy and the other medium-light. Overall, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT Wine Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches offer a shorter travel distance compared to the traditional 4.0 mm, making them suitable for those seeking faster response times. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the shorter travel distance as it allows for quicker keystrokes. However, if you prefer a more substantial feeling when typing or gaming, the KTT Wine Red switch with its longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and desired responsiveness.
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 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, the Gateron Ink Box Black and the KTT Wine Red offer different profiles. The Ink Box Black is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound. When pressed, it produces a sharp and crisp sound that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Wine Red is characterized by its bassy and low-pitched sound. It offers a deeper and richer sound profile with a lower frequency range. If you prefer a more rich and bassy sound, the Wine Red switches would be a great choice. However, it's important to note that the sound of the switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Ink Box Black has a silky and polished typing experience. These switches are known for their exceptionally smooth feel, offering minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The overall smoothness of the typing experience is enhanced, providing a satisfying and effortless typing feel. Unfortunately, there is no available information on the feel of the KTT Wine Red switches.
Considering the available information, the Gateron Ink Box Black and the KTT Wine Red switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ink Box Black provides a clacky and high-pitched sound along with a silky and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Wine Red switches offer a bassy and low-pitched sound, although information on the feel is unknown. It's essential to consider personal preferences when choosing between these two switches, as the sound and feel can greatly impact the overall typing experience. If you prefer a crisper sound with a smooth typing feel, the Ink Box Black would be an excellent choice. However, if you are looking for a deeper and richer sound profile, the Wine Red switches might be more suitable. Ultimately, it is recommended to try out both switches or consult with other keyboard enthusiasts to make an informed decision based on your specific preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a medium-heavy switch with a smooth and creamy typing experience, the Gateron Ink Box Black would be a great choice for you. These switches have a bottom out force of 70 grams and provide a silky and polished feel. The sound signature is described as clacky and high-pitched, offering a crisp and bright sound when pressed.
On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light switch with a pillowy light type feel, the KTT Wine Red would be a fantastic option. With a bottom out force of 55 grams, these switches provide a satisfyingly deep and rich sound profile. While the sound descriptors are not specified, they are likely to be bassy and low-pitched, offering a deeper and more mellow tone.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Ink Box Black and KTT Wine Red depends on your preference for typing force, sound, and feel. Consider whether you prefer a medium-heavy or medium-light switch, as well as whether you prefer a clacky and high-pitched sound or a deeper and more bassy sound. By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision and choose the switch that best suits your typing style and preferences.
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