Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. KTT Lightning
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the KTT Lightning switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two options to consider are the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the KTT Lightning. Each switch offers unique features and characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Ink Box Pink is best known for its smooth and lighter typing feel, making it a popular choice for those seeking a comfortable typing experience. Additionally, its higher-pitched clack adds an extra touch of satisfaction. On the other hand, the Lightning is renowned for its lightning-fast speed. Perfect for competitive gaming or situations where split-second decisions matter, these switches provide a slick type feel and a clacky sound profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the KTT Lightning differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Ink Box Pink features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which is known for its satisfying thin and clacky sound. In contrast, the Lightning utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. While both materials contribute to a higher-pitched sound, the Ink Box Pink's INK blend offers a slightly less sharp sound compared to the polycarbonate used in the Lightning. Additionally, the polycarbonate top housing of the Lightning is advantageous for those intending to use RGB lighting due to its translucency.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Gateron Ink Box Pink retains its proprietary INK blend, providing a pointed and high-pitched sound that is often described as clacky. In contrast, the KTT Lightning incorporates a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, giving it a duller and rounder sound. The difference between these two bottom housing materials lies in the degree of resonance and depth they offer. While the Ink Box Pink's INK blend lends a relatively high-pitched and pointed sound, the Lightning's nylon housing offers a deeper and more rounded tone.
When considering the overall impact of the top and bottom housing, it is important to note that the qualities of each material will influence different aspects of the switch. The bottom housing primarily affects the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing predominantly influences the sound when releasing a key. Despite the contrast in materials, both the Ink Box Pink and the Lightning provide satisfying and distinctive sound profiles, albeit with varying degrees of sharpness, depth, and resonance.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch, there are noticeable differences in weight. The Ink Box Pink has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Lightning's lighter 43 grams. Similarly, the Ink Box Pink has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 60 grams compared to the Lightning's 50 grams. Therefore, the Ink Box Pink offers a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the Lightning provides a lighter and more effortless keystroke.
Considering weight preferences, those looking for a lighter option may prefer the Lightning switch as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. This makes it suitable for work settings or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may prefer the Ink Box Pink switch as its heavier actuation and bottom out forces provide a satisfying and robust keystroke feel. It is important to note that if similar results are desired, selecting switches with equivalent actuation and bottom out forces would be ideal. However, since the force of the switches is not provided, a direct comparison cannot be made in this regard.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch, it is evident that the Ink Box Pink has a longer travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Lightning has a shorter travel distance of 3 mm. The Ink Box Pink falls closer to the more traditional travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the Lightning has a shallower travel distance. Gamers, who value faster response times, often prefer switches with shorter travel distances, making the Lightning a potentially suitable option for them. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key might opt for the Ink Box Pink with its longer travel distance. It is important to consider personal preferences and the desired level of responsiveness when making a decision between these two switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Box Pink 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 Pink for $7.65.
The KTT Lightning comes in at $3.41 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
When it comes to sound, both the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the KTT Lightning switches are described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. The Ink Box Pink is additionally described as having a higher-pitched sound profile, while the Lightning switches are noted to have a chirpy sound, which sets them apart from other switches. The sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Therefore, while the Ink Box Pink and Lightning switches share some similarities in sound, the Ink Box Pink may have a slightly higher-pitched sound, while the Lightning switches have a unique chirpy characteristic.
When it comes to feel, the Ink Box Pink switches are described as silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience. These switches enhance the overall smoothness of the typing feel and minimize resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Additionally, they are described as polished, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Lightning switches are mentioned to have a subtle resistance, maintaining a light typing feel. They also have a polished finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction. In terms of feel, both switches aim to provide a smooth and refined typing experience, but the Ink Box Pink switches may have a greater emphasis on overall smoothness, while the Lightning switches focus on maintaining a light and gentle resistance.
In conclusion, comparing the subjective qualities of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch, we can see that both switches have some similarities in sound and feel. They are described as clacky switches, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. In terms of feel, both aim to provide a smooth typing experience, with the Ink Box Pink switches being described as silky and polished, while the Lightning switches offer a more subtle resistance and also have a polished finish. Keep in mind that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. So, while the Ink Box Pink and Lightning switches may offer slightly different qualities in sound and feel, selecting either switch should provide a similar overall experience based on their shared characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and lighter typing feel with a higher-pitched clack sound, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize speed and need a switch that can make a difference in milliseconds, the KTT Lightning linear switch is perfect. The Lightning offers a slick type feel with a clacky sound profile, making it suitable for quick and precise actions. In terms of sound, both switches are described as clacky and high-pitched, which produces crisp and sharp sounds when pressed. However, the Lightning switch has an additional characteristic of being chirpy, giving it a unique acoustic signature. When it comes to feel, the Ink Box Pink provides a silky and polished typing experience, minimizing resistance and enhancing smoothness. Similarly, the Lightning switch is also polished, offering reduced friction and smooth key travel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would depend on your preferences and requirements.
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