Gateron Ink Red vs. KTT Kang White

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Ink Red and the KTT Kang White, both of which are linear switches. The Ink Red stands out for its lower actuation force, making it ideal for those with a lighter typing style. Known for their satisfyingly smooth feel and crispy, clacky sound profile, typing on the Ink Reds is effortless. On the other hand, the Kang White showcases an exquisite representation of a poppy linear switch, with a dazzling typing sound. What sets it apart is the self-lubricating material used, resulting in an unparalleled smoothness when typing. Categorized as "Neutral", the Ink Red offers a range of qualities such as being silky, chirpy, mild, and polished, while the Kang White falls into "Low-pitched" and "Neutral" categories. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities, so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your typing needs.

By the numbers

Gateron Ink Red Linear

KTT Kang White Linear

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

$1.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Red and the KTT Kang White switches differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Ink Red features a proprietary INK blend for both its top and bottom housing. This unique blend creates a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is often described as clacky. On the other hand, the Kang White switch utilizes a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate, being a relatively stiffer plastic, produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, its translucency makes it ideal for RGB lighting. Therefore, while both switches offer a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound, the Ink Red has a more balanced and less sharp profile compared to the Kang White.

In terms of the bottom housing, the Ink Red and the Kang White also differ. The Ink Red continues to utilize its proprietary INK blend, resulting in a pointed and high-pitched sound profile that matches the top housing. Meanwhile, the Kang White employs a nylon bottom housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. Consequently, typing on switches with nylon housings elicits a duller and rounder sound compared to those with harder plastics. Hence, the Ink Red offers a consistently thin and high-pitched sound throughout, while the Kang White has a combination of sharper and crisper top sound with a deeper and fuller bottom-out sound.

It is important to note that if a switch has different top and bottom housings, each housing material will contribute different qualities to the overall sound and feel of the switch. When pressing down on a switch, the qualities of the bottom housing will be more apparent, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel. In the case of the Ink Red, the proprietary INK blend in both the top and bottom housing ensures a consistent high-pitched and clacky sound profile. Conversely, the Kang White will showcase its nylon bottom housing's characteristic deeper and fuller sound. When releasing a key, the top housing material becomes more prominent in determining the sound. Thus, while there are differences between the Ink Red and the Kang White in terms of their housing materials, both switches provide unique and satisfying sound profiles depending on their specific materials.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the KTT Kang White linear switch, both switches have a similar actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the force required to trigger a keystroke on both switches is the same, providing a consistent typing experience. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, there is a slight difference. The Gateron Ink Red has a bottom out force of 60 grams, whereas the KTT Kang White has a bottom out force of 58 grams. This means that the Gateron Ink Red requires a slightly heavier force to fully press down compared to the KTT Kang White.

Considering the weight aspect, individuals who prefer a lighter switch may lean towards the KTT Kang White as it has a lower bottom out force. This lighter force allows for comfortable typing over longer periods, making it suitable for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may opt for the Gateron Ink Red due to its slightly heavier bottom out force. This provides a satisfying tactile feedback for those who enjoy a more pronounced keystroke. Overall, while the actuation force remains the same, the slight difference in bottom out force allows users to choose between a lighter or heavier typing experience, depending on their preference.

Travel distance

The Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the KTT Kang White linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches will provide a consistent and comfortable typing experience, as the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom is identical for both. Whether you choose the Ink Red or the Kang White, you can expect similar results in terms of the travel distance and the tactile feedback when pressing down on a key. Both switches offer a smooth and seamless typing experience with their 4 mm travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron Ink Red is known for its neutral sound profile with a hint of chirpiness. This means that it has a moderate sound that is suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user or if you are using it at home or work. The unique acoustic signature of the Ink Red sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the KTT Kang White is described as having a low-pitched sound. This gives it a bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Both switches have a moderate actuation force requirement, making them versatile in terms of user preference. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Red offers a silky and smooth typing experience. It is considered a mild switch, providing a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. The switch is also described as polished, meaning it has a smooth and refined finish. This results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing feel. On the other hand, there is no specific information available about the feel of the KTT Kang White switch.

In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Red and KTT Kang White switches have different qualities when it comes to sound and feel. The Ink Red is known for its crispy and clacky sound profile, while the Kang White has a low-pitched sound. In terms of feel, the Ink Red offers a silky smooth typing experience with reduced friction, while no specific information is available about the feel of the Kang White. Overall, if you prefer a switch with a lighter actuation force and smooth typing experience, the Gateron Ink Red would be a great choice. However, if you are looking for a switch with a low-pitched sound, the KTT Kang White may be worth exploring.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you prefer a lighter typing style and a switch with a lower actuation force, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. These switches offer a satisfyingly smooth and effortless typing experience, accompanied by a crispy and clacky sound profile. Additionally, if you enjoy a switch with a unique acoustic signature, the Ink Red's chirpy sound might appeal to you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, the KTT Kang White linear switch would be worth considering. These switches offer a dazzling typing sound, and the self-lubricating material provides unparalleled smoothness. The Kang White switch is also suitable for both beginners and advanced typists, making it versatile for use at home or work. Despite the lack of specific descriptors for the Kang White's feel, it provides a safe and approachable middle-ground typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Ink Red and the KTT Kang White depends on your preferred typing style and sound preferences, both of which are catered to by these excellent mechanical keyboard switches.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Ink Red Linear

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

Learn more

KTT Kang White Linear

$1.99 per 10

Learn more