Gateron Ink Red vs. KTT Peach
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Red and the KTT Peach switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the Gateron Ink Red and the KTT Peach, both of which are linear switches. The Gateron Ink Red is renowned for its lower actuation force, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing style. Its smoothness and satisfyingly clacky sound make it effortless to type on. On the other hand, the KTT Peach boasts multiple coveted characteristics of a linear switch. Users can expect a syrupy smooth typing experience and a deep, thocky sound. While the Ink Red is categorized as neutral, silky, chirpy, mild, and polished, the Peach is characterized as low-pitched, neutral, and mild. Both switches have their strengths, and it ultimately comes down to personal preference. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision on the best switch for you.
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
No
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
13mm progressive spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Red and the KTT Peach switches differ significantly. The Ink Red utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend for both its top and bottom housing. This blend is known for creating a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound profile, without being overly sharp. On the contrary, the Peach switch features a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The use of polycarbonate also allows for RGB lighting to shine through, making it visually appealing. Additionally, the Peach uses a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile.
While the Ink Red and Peach switches have differences in their housing materials, they also share some similarities. Both switches create a thin and higher-pitched sound profile, although the Ink Red's sound is characterized as clacky, while the Peach's sound is described as sharper and crisper. Additionally, the top housing of both switches plays a significant role in the sound produced when a key is released. The Ink Red's INK blend and the Peach's polycarbonate materials allow for a resonant sound when keys are let go.
In terms of the impact on the overall sound and feel of the switch, the bottom housing of the switch has a greater influence. The Ink Red's INK blend and the Peach's nylon bottom housing contribute to the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down. The nylon material in the Peach absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the top housing, whether it's the INK blend or polycarbonate, has a greater impact on the sound when a key is released. In both switches, the top housing material affects the resonant sound produced when a key is let go.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the KTT Peach linear switch, we can observe some similarities and differences. Both switches have an actuation force of 45 grams, indicating that the force required to trigger a keystroke is the same for both. This means that users can expect a similar level of responsiveness and speed when using either of these switches. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, there is a distinction between the two. The Ink Red has a bottom out force of 60 grams, which is slightly heavier than the Peach's bottom out force of 53 grams. This means that users who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a firmer push feel may lean towards the Ink Red, as it offers a slightly heavier bottom out force. On the other hand, those who prefer a lighter switch to alleviate fatigue during long typing or gaming sessions may find the Peach more suitable, as it has a lower bottom out force. Overall, both switches provide a medium actuation force, but the Ink Red offers a heavier bottom out force, while the Peach provides a lighter bottom out force.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Ink Red and KTT Peach linear switches have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel a consistent 4 mm of travel distance. Therefore, both switches provide a similar experience in terms of the distance you feel when typing or gaming.
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 Peach 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
The Gateron Ink Red linear switch is best known for its lower actuation force, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing style. When it comes to sound, the Ink Red offers a satisfyingly smooth and crispy sound profile, with a hint of clackiness. Additionally, these switches have a neutral sound profile, meaning they are suitable for most intents and purposes. However, there is also a unique acoustic signature in the form of a slight chirp, setting the Ink Red apart from other switches.
On the other hand, the KTT Peach linear switch boasts several prized characteristics of a linear switch. Typing on the Peach switch provides a syrupy smooth experience, with a deep and thocky sound profile. The Peach switch has a low-pitched sound, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Similar to the Ink Red, the Peach switch also has a neutral actuation force requirement, making it suitable for various users and environments.
In terms of feel, the Ink Red is known for its silky smooth typing experience. These switches enhance the overall smoothness of the typing feel and minimize resistance when pressing and releasing keys. They are also considered mild, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. The Ink Red can be described as polished, providing a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Comparatively, the KTT Peach switch shares the mild characteristic with the Ink Red. It offers a gentle typing experience that is easy to approach, making it suitable for users of varying preferences. However, detailed information about the specific feel of the Peach switch, such as smoothness or any polishing, is unknown.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Red and KTT Peach linear switches have various similarities and differences. Both switches offer a neutral sound profile and have a mild typing experience. The Ink Red stands out with its chirpy sound signature and the polished feel, while the Peach switch provides a low-pitched sound and a syrupy smooth typing experience. Overall, both switches offer their distinct qualities, and the choice between them would depend on personal preferences regarding sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, if you prefer a lighter typing style and want a smooth and effortless typing experience, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch is the ideal choice for you. With a medium bottom out force of 60 grams, this switch provides a satisfying smoothness and a crispy, clacky sound profile. It is also described as a neutral switch, making it suitable for most intents and purposes. Additionally, the Ink Red offers a silky, mild, and polished feel due to its refined finish and reduced friction. On the other hand, if you value a syrupy smooth typing experience and a deep, thocky sound profile, the KTT Peach linear switch is the better option. With a slightly lighter bottom out force of 53 grams, the Peach switch still provides a moderate actuation force requirement and a neutral sound profile. Its mild feel ensures a gentle typing experience that stands in a safe, middle-ground zone. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Ink Red and KTT Peach switch depends on your preferred typing style and sound preference.
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