Gateron Ink Red vs. KTT Orange
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Red and the KTT Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Ink Red and the KTT Orange. The Ink Red is a linear switch that is ideal for those with a lighter typing style, thanks to its lower actuation force. It offers a satisfyingly smooth typing experience with a crispy and clacky sound profile, making it a favorite among many users. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switches are also linear switches but come with a 22mm long spring, providing a bouncy type feel. These switches feature a polycarbonate milky top housing, long pole POM stem, and a vivid orange nylon bottom housing, all of which contribute to a slick and frictionless typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile. Additionally, the excellent factory-lubing ensures a refined and fluid key travel, minimizing friction and maximizing smoothness. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
46g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Red and the KTT Orange switches have distinct differences. The Gateron Ink Red features a proprietary INK blend top and bottom housing, characterized by a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. This results in a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound, often described as clacky. On the other hand, the KTT Orange utilizes a polycarbonate top and bottom housing. Polycarbonate is relatively stiffer plastic, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for RGB lighting.
Despite these differences, both switches share some similarities. They both offer a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile, delivering a clacky sound when typing. Additionally, the top housing of both switches contributes to the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, if you're seeking similar sound results, both switches could provide a satisfying auditory experience, although with slight variations due to their different housing materials.
It's important to note that the qualities brought by the housing materials are divided between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. Meanwhile, the top housing plays a larger role in the sound produced when releasing a key. This distinction should be considered when choosing between the Gateron Ink Red and the KTT Orange, as each switch's housing material will influence the overall typing experience in unique ways.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. In terms of actuation force, the Ink Red requires 45 grams to trigger a keystroke, while the Orange requires slightly more at 46 grams. This slight difference may not be significant in practice, as both switches have a similar actuation force and users can expect comparable results.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Ink Red requires 60 grams to fully press the key down, while the Orange requires a lighter force of 53 grams. This indicates that the Ink Red provides a slightly more substantial typing experience, as the heavier bottom out force gives users a greater tactile feedback when fully pressing down the keys. On the other hand, the Orange offers a lighter bottom out force, making it more suitable for individuals who prefer a lighter touch or need to type for longer periods without experiencing excessive fatigue.
Considering the weight of the switch, the Ink Red falls into the medium range for both actuation and bottom out forces, while the Orange is categorized as medium-light for actuation and bottom out. Some users may prefer the lighter weight of the Orange switch, allowing for longer typing sessions without strain. However, those who value a stronger push feel may find the Ink Red's slightly heavier forces more desirable, as it provides a more substantial typing experience.
In conclusion, the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch show marginal differences. While the Ink Red requires slightly less force for actuation but more force for bottoming out, the Orange offers a lighter touch for both. Ultimately, the choice between the switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience, with the Ink Red appealing to those seeking a more substantial feel and the Orange catering to those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing periods.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4.0mm, which is considered a more traditional distance. On the other hand, the KTT Orange linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.5mm. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times, making it a popular choice for gaming keyboards. However, for those who prefer a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on a key, the Gateron Ink Red with its longer travel distance may be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness.
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 Orange has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange for $4.15.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch has a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement. This makes it suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced, and whether you are planning to use them 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 Orange linear switch has a low-pitched sound profile, featuring a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps. However, based on the available information, we can expect similar results in terms of sound from these two switches.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch offers a silky and polished typing experience. These switches are exceptionally smooth, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. They provide an overall gentle and approachable typing experience, making them suitable for most users. The KTT Orange linear switch, on the other hand, offers a bouncy and frictionless typing experience. The keys have a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, giving them a lively feel. They also offer an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction. Both switches prioritize smoothness and ease of typing, albeit in slightly different ways. Again, it is important to consider other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, but based on the available information, we can expect similar results in terms of feel from these two switches.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch have their own unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ink Red switch has a neutral sound profile with a chirpy characteristic and offers a silky and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Orange switch has a low-pitched sound profile and offers a bouncy and frictionless typing experience. Both switches prioritize smoothness and ease of typing, making them suitable for most users. However, the specific sound and feel experienced will also be influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps. Nevertheless, based on the available information, you can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel from both switches, with slight variations in their sonic and tactile characteristics.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you have a lighter typing style and prefer a switch with a lower actuation force, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch would be a great choice for you. These switches are smooth, have a crisp sound, and are effortless to type on. They have a medium bottom out force of 60 grams, which is suitable for most intents and purposes. On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy and frictionless typing experience, the KTT Orange linear switch would be the better option. With a bottom out force of 53 grams, these switches provide a slick and frictionless typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your specific preferences for typing feel and sound.
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