Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. KTT Wine Red

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the KTT Wine Red. The Ink Box Pink switches are well-known for their smoothness and lighter typing feel compared to other mechanical switches. They also produce a higher-pitched clack sound when in use. On the other hand, the Wine Red switches are highly regarded for their pillowy light typing feel and a satisfyingly deep and rich sound profile. They are categorized as having a bassy and low-pitched sound. These general characteristics give an initial glimpse into the unique qualities of each switch. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Ink Box Pink Linear

KTT Wine Red Linear

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

$2.71 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the KTT Wine Red switches differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Ink Box Pink features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound without being overly sharp. This creates a satisfying, clacky sound profile. In contrast, the Wine Red utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which imparts a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for showcasing RGB lighting effects. While both housing materials result in higher-pitched sound profiles, the Ink Box Pink's INK blend delivers a distinct and less intense sound compared to the Wine Red's polycarbonate.

Similarly, the bottom housings of the Ink Box Pink and the Wine Red switches differ in composition and resulting sound profiles. The Ink Box Pink's proprietary INK blend bottom housing shares similar characteristics with its top housing - producing a pointed, relatively high-pitched, and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Wine Red's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Like the top housing, the use of polycarbonate in the bottom housing allows for enhanced clarity and resonance in the sound produced. The bottom housing primarily affects the sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the choice of housing material for each component impacts different aspects of the switch's overall performance.

In summary, although the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the KTT Wine Red switches possess different housing materials, namely the INK blend for the Ink Box Pink and polycarbonate for the Wine Red, there are certain similarities in their resulting sound profiles. Both materials contribute to a higher-pitched sound profile, with the INK blend offering a pointed and less intense clacky sound, while the polycarbonate delivers a sharper and crisper sound. Moreover, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it advantageous for showcasing RGB lighting effects. Ultimately, the housing material choice for each component, whether top or bottom, determines the specific qualities and characteristics of each switch's sound and feel.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Ink Box Pink has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams, while the Wine Red requires a lighter 44 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. However, both switches have a similar medium bottom out force, with the Ink Box Pink requiring 60 grams and the Wine Red requiring 55 grams.

Considering weight, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Wine Red switch, as its lower actuation force allows for longer periods of comfortable typing, making it suitable for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience might lean towards the Ink Box Pink, as its slightly heavier actuation force provides a tactile feedback that some find satisfying.

Overall, while the actuation and bottom out forces differ between the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the KTT Wine Red, they both fall within the medium range for bottom out force. Therefore, individuals seeking a similar typing experience in terms of force required can expect comparable results from both switches.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, it is clear that the Ink Box Pink has a shorter distance of 3.6 mm, while the Wine Red has a longer distance of 4 mm. The Ink Box Pink falls into the category of a shorter travel distance, which is favored by gamers for its faster response times. On the other hand, the Wine Red offers a more substantial depth of travel, which some individuals prefer. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Ink Box Pink switch is best described as clacky and high-pitched. When pressed, these switches produce a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. This is ideal for those who enjoy a more pronounced and distinct typing sound. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red switch does not have a specific description for sound. However, based on the information provided, it is likely that these switches offer a deeper and richer sound profile due to their bassy nature. They may also have a lower-pitched tone, providing a more mellow and bass-heavy typing experience. It is 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 Pink switch is characterized as silky and polished. These switches offer an exceptionally smooth typing experience, enhancing the overall smoothness of the typing feel and minimizing any resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The switch's polished finish adds to the sleek typing experience, reducing friction and resulting in smooth key travel. In contrast, there is no specific description of the feel of the KTT Wine Red switch provided. However, based on the information given, it is likely that these switches offer a pillowy light typing feel, suggesting a soft and cushioned sensation when pressing the keys.

In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Box Pink and KTT Wine Red switches have different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ink Box Pink switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound, giving a sharp and crisp typing experience. Its feel is described as silky and polished, providing an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red switch may offer a deep and rich sound profile due to its bassy nature, though the specific sound characteristics are unknown. The feel of the Wine Red switch is not described, but it is likely to provide a pillowy light typing feel. Despite the differences, both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you prefer a lighter typing feel and a higher-pitched clack sound, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch would be a great choice for you. These switches have a bottom out force of 60 grams, which is considered medium. They are known for their smoothness and offer a lighter typing experience compared to other switches. The Ink Box Pink switches also produce a crisp and bright sound when pressed, thanks to their clacky and high-pitched characteristics.

On the other hand, if you enjoy a pillowy light typing feel and a deep, rich sound profile, the KTT Wine Red linear switch is a fantastic option. With a bottom out force of 55 grams, which is medium-light, these switches provide a satisfyingly soft typing experience. The Wine Red switches create a bass-heavy and mellow tone, as they are low-pitched and offer a depth and richness similar to that of bass tones.

Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference. If you value a lighter typing feel and prefer higher-pitched sounds, the Ink Box Pink switches would be a great fit for you. However, if you prioritize a softer typing feel and enjoy a deeper and richer sound profile, the Wine Red switches would be the ideal choice.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Ink Box Pink Linear

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

Learn more

KTT Wine Red Linear

$2.71 per 10

Learn more