Gateron Ink Red vs. KTT Mint
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Red and the KTT Mint switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options are the Gateron Ink Red and the KTT Mint, both being linear switches. The Ink Red stands out with its lower actuation force, making it perfect for those who prefer a lighter typing style. It offers a satisfyingly smooth experience, accompanied by a crispy and clacky sound profile, making typing effortless and enjoyable. On the other hand, the Mint is also known for its smooth linear switch, but what sets it apart is the long pole stem, which provides a unique poppy thockiness while typing. Additionally, it offers a light and fleeting type feel. However, to make the best decision for your keyboard, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Red and the KTT Mint exhibit significant differences in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. The Ink Red utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend for both its top and bottom housing materials. This blend creates a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile, described as clacky. On the other hand, the Mint features a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic, allowing for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the Mint's clear housing is ideal for RGB lighting enthusiasts.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Ink Red and the Mint also differ. The Ink Red employs its proprietary INK blend, which contributes to its pointed and satisfying thin sound profile. In contrast, the Mint uses a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. Therefore, those who prefer a more robust typing experience may find the Mint's nylon bottom housing more appealing.
Although the housing materials of the Ink Red and the Mint differ, it is important to note that the qualities of each material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on either switch, the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. Meanwhile, the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, both switches can deliver satisfying typing experiences, albeit with slightly different sound profiles and aesthetics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. Both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams, which means that the force required to trigger a keystroke is equal for both switches. This similarity ensures that users will experience similar results in terms of responsiveness and sensitivity when typing or gaming.
However, when it comes to the bottom out force, there is a contrast between the two switches. The Gateron Ink Red switch has a bottom out force of 60 grams, which is slightly heavier compared to the KTT Mint switch. The Mint switch, on the other hand, has a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it lighter than the Ink Red switch. This difference in bottom out force can affect the typing experience for users who prefer a more substantial push feel.
Considering weight is crucial when selecting a switch, as it affects typing comfort and endurance. Those who prefer lighter switches will appreciate the Mint switch, as it allows for longer typing sessions or extended gaming periods without causing excessive fatigue. On the contrary, individuals seeking a more satisfying and substantial typing experience might lean towards the Gateron Ink Red switch with its heavier bottom out force.
In conclusion, while both the Gateron Ink Red and KTT Mint switches share the same actuation force, their bottom out forces differ. The Ink Red switch offers a heavier bottom out force, providing a more substantial push feel, while the Mint switch has a lighter bottom out force, allowing for extended usage without excessive fatigue. The choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Red and KTT Mint linear switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches will provide a similar tactile experience when pressing down on a key, as they offer the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Therefore, whether you choose the Gateron Ink Red or the KTT Mint, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance. Both switches offer a consistent and comfortable typing experience with their 4 mm 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 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 Red switch is known for its neutral and chirpy characteristics. The neutral sound profile, which is suitable for most purposes, offers a moderate actuation force requirement. Additionally, the Ink Red switch has a unique acoustic signature with a little squeak that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the KTT Mint switch is described as having a low-pitched sound. This means it produces a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Similar to the Ink Red, the Mint switch also has a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement. However, it's important to note that the sound produced by the switches can vary depending on factors like the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Red switch offers a silky and polished typing experience. The silky characteristic refers to its exceptionally smooth feel, enhancing the overall typing experience by minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Additionally, the Ink Red switch falls into the category of mild switches, providing a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. The polished finish of the switch contributes to its sleek typing experience, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Similarly, the KTT Mint switch is also described as a mild and polished switch, offering a gentle typing experience with a smooth and refined finish. Both switches provide a safe middle-ground feel that is comfortable for a wide range of users.
Considering the subjective qualities of the Gateron Ink Red and KTT Mint switches, it is evident that they offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel. The Ink Red switch has a crispy and clacky sound profile, while the Mint switch has a poppy thockiness with a low-pitched tone. In terms of feel, both switches provide a silky and polished typing experience, with the Ink Red being known for its smoothness and the Mint offering a gentle typing feel. While they have their unique qualities, both switches fall into the category of mild switches, ensuring a comfortable and approachable typing experience for most users. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and the desired sound and feel experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a lighter typing style and enjoy a crispy and clacky sound profile, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch would be a great choice for you. With a medium bottom out force of 60 grams, these switches offer a satisfyingly smooth typing experience. Additionally, the Ink Reds are suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and can be used at home or work. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter and fleeting typing feel, the KTT Mint linear switch with its medium-light bottom out force of 53 grams would be a better fit. These switches provide a poppy thockiness due to their long pole stem, resulting in a satisfyingly smooth typing experience. Furthermore, the Mint switches have a low-pitched sound profile, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Ultimately, your preference for typing style, sound, and feel should guide your decision between the Gateron Ink Red and the KTT Mint linear switches.
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