Gateron Ink Red vs. KTT Matcha
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Red and the KTT Matcha switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Ink Red and the KTT Matcha. The Ink Red is a linear switch, known for its lower actuation force, making it ideal for those with a lighter typing style. With its satisfyingly smooth feel, crispy and clacky sound profile, and effortless typing experience, the Ink Reds are a top choice for many. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha is a tactile switch that offers a comfortable and snappy tactility while typing. With its long pole stem, you can expect a distinctly clean bottom-out sound. Both switches have their own unique characteristics and advantages, which we will delve into in more detail to help you decide on the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Red and the KTT Matcha have different housing materials that contribute to their unique sound profiles. The Ink Red utilizes a proprietary INK blend for both its top and bottom housings. This blend creates a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound that is described as clacky. On the other hand, the Matcha features polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to the stiffness of the plastic, which leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the Matcha's transparent polycarbonate top housing makes it an ideal choice for those who plan to use RGB lighting.
Despite their differences, the top and bottom housing materials of both switches have their own individual impacts. When you press down on the switch, you will feel the qualities of the bottom housing. This means that the Ink Red's bottom housing will affect the bottom-out sound and feel, while the Matcha's polycarbonate bottom housing will create a sharper and crisper bottom-out experience. On the other hand, the top housing material is more influential when it comes to the sound produced when letting go of a key. Both the Ink Red's proprietary INK blend and the Matcha's polycarbonate top housing contribute to a higher-pitched and satisfying sound when releasing a key.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Red and the KTT Matcha have different housing materials that result in distinct sound profiles. The Ink Red's proprietary INK blend provides a pointed and clacky sound, while the Matcha's polycarbonate housing creates a sharper and crisper sound. However, if you are looking for a switch with a clear housing for RGB lighting purposes, both switches offer the functionality through their polycarbonate top housings. Regardless of these differences, the impact of the housing materials is split between the top and bottom of the switches, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel and the top housing contributing to the sound produced when releasing a key.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch, there are notable 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, making it a medium-weight switch. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha boasts a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, categorizing it as a lighter switch.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the KTT Matcha would be a suitable choice. With its lower actuation force, users can type for longer periods without experiencing fatigue. This makes it an ideal option for those who frequently use their keyboards for work or for extended gaming sessions. Additionally, the lower bottom out force of the KTT Matcha ensures a gentle and less forceful impact when pressing the keys fully.
In contrast, the Gateron Ink Red provides a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier actuation force and higher bottom out force. This makes it preferable for users who enjoy having a stronger push feel when typing. The higher actuation force also ensures a more deliberate keypress, which can be advantageous for tasks that require precision or a tactile response.
In summary, the Gateron Ink Red and KTT Matcha switches offer different experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces. The Gateron Ink Red provides a medium-weight typing feel, ideal for those who prefer a more substantial keystroke, while the KTT Matcha offers a lighter typing experience, suitable for prolonged use. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on the individual's preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will feel the same level of travel distance. Both switches offer a consistent and satisfying tactile experience for users. Consequently, regardless of whether you choose the Gateron Ink Red or the KTT Matcha switch, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance.
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 Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
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 linear switch offers a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement. This makes it suitable for most purposes, whether you're a beginner or advanced, using it at home or work. Additionally, the Ink Reds have a unique chirpy sound, which sets them apart from other switches. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha tactile switch provides a clacky sound, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This sound can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. However, it's 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 linear switch offers a silky and smooth typing experience. This switch minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys, enhancing the overall smoothness of the typing feel. It also has mild characteristics, making it approachable to most users, as its qualities stand in a safe middle-ground zone. Additionally, the Ink Reds provide a polished typing experience, thanks to their smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
The KTT Matcha tactile switch, on the other hand, offers a stepped feel, meaning it feels like it has two stages. This switch provides a mild tactile bump, allowing users to feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel. It is also snappy, offering a super-responsive typing experience, thanks to its longer or dual-staged springs. Furthermore, the Matcha switch is described as accented, meaning it provides a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. Unfortunately, specific information about the Matcha switch's heaviness, subtlety, and featheriness is unknown.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ink Red has a neutral sound profile with a unique chirpy sound, while the Matcha offers a clacky sound. In terms of feel, the Ink Red provides a silky and polished typing experience, while the Matcha offers a stepped and snappy feel with accented tactility. While these switches are different, both can provide satisfying typing experiences depending on the user's preferences. It's important to consider personal preference, keyboard setup, and keycap choice to ensure the desired sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you have a lighter typing style and prefer a linear switch, the Gateron Ink Red would be a great choice for you. With its lower actuation force and satisfyingly smooth feel, it offers an effortless typing experience. Additionally, the crispy and clacky sound profile adds an extra level of satisfaction. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch, the KTT Matcha would be a fantastic option. Its comfortable and snappy tactility enhances the typing experience, while the distinct bottom-out sound adds a clean and pleasant touch. Furthermore, the Matcha switch offers a variety of tactile characteristics, from the stepped and accented feel to the snappiness and feathery lightness. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on your typing style and preferences, so consider the actuation force, sound profile, and feel descriptions provided to make the best choice for you.
Mentioned in this article
