Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. KTT Mint
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the KTT Mint switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing your ideal mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the KTT Mint, both of which are linear switches. The Ink Box Pink is notable for its smoothness and lighter typing feel compared to other switches, accompanied by a high-pitched clack. On the other hand, the Mint offers a satisfyingly smooth typing experience with a poppy thockiness due to its long pole stem. It also provides a light and fleeting type feel. While these general descriptions help outline the key characteristics of each switch, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
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 Gateron Ink Box Pink and the KTT Mint have contrasting housing materials that greatly affect their sound profiles. The Ink Box Pink utilizes a proprietary INK blend for both its top and bottom housings. This blend creates a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is described as clacky. On the other hand, the Mint features a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The stiffness of polycarbonate adds to the clear and resonant sound profile, making it a great choice for those who prioritize sound quality. In terms of aesthetics, the Ink Box Pink maintains a solid color, while the Mint's use of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to enhance its visual appeal.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Ink Box Pink and the Mint also differ in material. The Ink Box Pink uses the same proprietary INK blend for its bottom housing, resulting in a similar sound profile as the top housing. It provides a thin and higher-pitched sound that is described as clacky. In contrast, the Mint incorporates a nylon bottom housing. This material is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. As a result, the Mint delivers a duller and rounder sound, offering a distinct typing experience compared to the Ink Box Pink.
Considering how the top and bottom housings contribute to the overall sound and feel of a switch, it is crucial to note that the qualities of each housing material will be divided between the two. When pressing down on the switch, the characteristics of the bottom housing will be more noticeable, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will exert more influence on the sound when releasing a key. While the specific sound profiles differ between the Ink Box Pink and the Mint, the contrasting properties of their housing materials ensure distinct typing experiences for users.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, there are some noticeable differences. The Ink Box Pink has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Mint's lighter actuation force of 45 grams. Both switches fall under the medium category in terms of actuation force.
However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Ink Box Pink takes the lead with a force of 60 grams, while the Mint requires a lighter force of 53 grams. This makes the bottom out force of the Mint switch medium-light, while the Ink Box Pink remains within the medium range.
Considering the weight aspect, those who prefer a lighter typing experience might lean towards the Mint switch, as its lighter actuation force can be beneficial for longer typing sessions or extended gaming periods. However, for individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience and prefer a stronger push feel, the Ink Box Pink would be a suitable choice, as its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces provide a more weighted and impactful keystroke.
In summary, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the KTT Mint linear switch. The Mint switch offers a lighter typing experience overall, while the Ink Box Pink switch provides a more substantial and weighted keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on an individual's preference for lighter or heavier typing experiences.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT Mint linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches have shorter travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. For those looking for a more responsive typing experience, the Ink Box Pink with its shorter travel distance would be the ideal choice. However, individuals who prefer a deeper keystroke may find the Mint switch with its longer travel distance more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and whether one values speed or a more substantial keystroke depth.
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 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Ink Box Pink switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched qualities. These switches produce a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, with a crisp and bright tone. If you prefer a keyboard switch that has a more rich and bassy sound profile, the Ink Box Pink may not be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, the KTT Mint switch is described as low-pitched and neutral in sound. It offers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, making it a suitable option if you want a switch with a moderate sound profile. Keep in mind that the sound of these switches can also be influenced by factors such as your choice of keyboard and keycaps.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Ink Box Pink switch is known for its silky and polished characteristics. These switches provide an exceptionally smooth typing experience, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The polished finish of the switch contributes to a sleek typing feel, reducing friction and ensuring smooth key travel. Similarly, the KTT Mint switch is described as polished as well, emphasizing its smooth and refined finish. This results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In terms of overall feel, both switches offer a comfortable and approachable typing experience, with the qualities of the Ink Box Pink leaning more towards a smoother feel.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the KTT Mint switches have distinct qualities when it comes to sound and feel. The Ink Box Pink provides a higher-pitched clacky sound and a silky, polished feel. On the other hand, the Mint switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound, along with a polished and smooth typing experience. If you prefer a switch with a sharper sound and lighter typing feel, the Ink Box Pink would be the better choice. However, if you prefer a switch with a more bass-heavy sound and a smoother typing experience, the KTT Mint switch would be a suitable option. It's important to consider your personal preferences and the overall setup of your keyboard when making a decision.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and enjoy a lighter typing feel, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch would be a great choice for you. These switches offer a smooth experience and have a higher-pitched clack, which can provide a crisp and bright sound when pressed. Additionally, the Ink Box Pink is described as silky and polished, meaning you can expect an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force, the KTT Mint linear switch may be more suitable for you. These switches offer a satisfyingly smooth typing experience and have a poppy thockiness due to their long pole stem. The Mint switches have a lower-pitched sound profile, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone when pressed. Similar to the Ink Box Pink, the Mint switches are also described as polished, offering reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Ink Box Pink and KTT Mint switches comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a lighter typing feel and a higher-pitched clack sound, go for the Ink Box Pink. If you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force and a lower-pitched sound profile with a poppy thockiness, the Mint switches would be a great fit. Consider your typing preferences and desired sound and feel to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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