Gateron Ink Red vs. KTT Lightning
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Red and the KTT Lightning switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options worth exploring are the Gateron Ink Red and the KTT Lightning. The Gateron Ink Red is a linear switch known for its lower actuation force, making it ideal for those with a lighter typing style. It offers a satisfyingly smooth experience with a crispy and clacky sound profile, making typing effortless. On the other hand, the KTT Lightning is a linear switch renowned for its "speed" capabilities, perfect for situations where milliseconds can determine victory or defeat. Typing on the Lightning switch provides a slick feel and a clacky sound profile. Both switches offer their own unique advantages, presenting users with a range of preferences to choose from. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can decide on the best switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Red and the KTT Lightning differ in terms of their properties and resulting sound profiles. The Ink Red utilizes a proprietary INK blend for both its top and bottom housing. This blend creates a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is often described as clacky. On the other hand, the Lightning features a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. However, both switches are likely to provide a similar satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound.
In terms of the bottom housing material, the Ink Red and the Lightning diverge once again. The Ink Red maintains its proprietary INK blend for the bottom housing, resulting in a pointed and high-pitched sound profile. Conversely, the Lightning incorporates a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder tone. Therefore, these two switches offer contrasting sound characteristics due to their different bottom housing materials.
When it comes to the overall typing experience, the bottom and top housings play distinct roles. The bottom housing significantly impacts the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed down, while the top housing influences the sound when the key is released. This means that the choice of housing materials for both top and bottom will contribute to the overall sound profile and tactile experience of the switch. Whether using the Ink Red or the Lightning, the combination of these housing materials will ultimately determine the typing sensation and resulting sound.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch, there are noticeable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Gateron Ink Red has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, both of which are considered medium. On the other hand, the KTT Lightning has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams.
Considering the weight aspect, the lighter actuation and bottom out force of the KTT Lightning switch makes it a suitable choice for individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience. This can be advantageous for extended periods of typing or long gaming sessions as it reduces the strain on the fingers. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Red with its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out force may offer a more substantial typing experience, appealing to those who prefer a stronger push feel.
While the actuation and bottom out forces do differ between the two switches, it is important to note that they are relatively close in terms of weight. Therefore, regardless of the choice, one can expect similar results in terms of the force required for keystrokes. Ultimately, the decision between the Gateron Ink Red and the KTT Lightning will depend on individual preferences.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the KTT Lightning linear switch has a travel distance of 3 mm. The Ink Red's travel distance of 4 mm is considered more traditional, offering a deeper feeling when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the Lightning's travel distance of 3 mm is shallower, which is favored by gamers who prioritize faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive typing experience, the Lightning switch with its shorter travel distance would be a suitable choice. However, for those who prefer a more substantial key press, the Ink Red switch with its longer travel distance would be the better option.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Red has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Red for $7.35.
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, the Gateron Ink Red and KTT Lightning switches offer some similarities and differences. The Ink Red switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, which means it has a moderate sound without any particular emphasis on certain frequencies. However, it is also described as "chirpy," which means it has a slight squeak to it, giving it a unique acoustic signature. On the other hand, the Lightning switch is described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. It is also described as high-pitched, offering a sharp and crisp sound. Both switches share the descriptor of being chirpy, meaning they both have a slight squeak. However, the Ink Red switch has a more neutral and chirpy sound, while the Lightning switch has a clacky and high-pitched sound. It is important to note that the sound produced by these switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Red and KTT Lightning switches also have their own characteristics. The Ink Red switch is described as silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. It is also described as mild, providing a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Additionally, it is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in sleek key travel. Similarly, the Lightning switch is also described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience. It is also described as subtle, meaning it has a gentle resistance without being too light, making it suitable for shared spaces. Both switches have the descriptor of being polished, indicating a smooth typing experience. However, the Ink Red switch has the additional descriptors of silky and mild, giving it a potentially more smooth and gentle typing feel compared to the Lightning switch.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Red and KTT Lightning switches have different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ink Red switch is known for its crisp and clacky sound profile with a slightly squeaky sound, while the Lightning switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound. In terms of feel, the Ink Red switch provides a silky and mild typing experience with a polished finish, while the Lightning switch offers a subtle and polished typing experience. While there are some similarities in terms of the polished finish, the overall sound and feel of these switches provide distinct experiences. However, if you are looking for a switch with a similar sound or feel, both switches share the chirpy descriptor. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Ink Red and KTT Lightning switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you prefer a lighter typing style and value a lower actuation force, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. These switches are known for their satisfyingly smooth feel, crisp and clacky sound, and effortless typing experience. They have a medium sound profile, making them suitable for both beginners and advanced users, whether you plan to use them at home or work. On the other hand, if milliseconds can make a difference for you, the KTT Lightning linear switch is the way to go. These "speed" switches offer a slick type feel and a clacky sound profile. With a bottom out force of 50 grams, they provide a light typing feel and a sharp, percussive sound. Additionally, if you prefer a switch with a gentle resistance and a subtle sound signature, the Lightning switch would be a great fit, especially in shared spaces. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Ink Red and KTT Lightning switches depends on your preferred typing style, actuation force preference, and desired sound and feel characteristics.
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