Gateron Ink Red vs. KTT Pine

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that often come up are the Gateron Ink Red and the KTT Pine. Both switches belong to the linear switch category, providing a smooth keystroke experience. The Gateron Ink Red is known for its lower actuation force, making it ideal for individuals who prefer a lighter typing style. With a satisfyingly smooth feel, crispy and clacky sound profile, and effortless typing experience, the Ink Reds truly stand out. On the other hand, the KTT Pine Linear Switches offer a medium-heavy feel and a buttery smooth keystroke. Designed to provide an effortless typing experience, these switches are factory-lubed to minimize friction and ensure smooth key travel. The Pine switches also have a distinct forest green translucent look, adding a unique touch to any keyboard. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your typing preferences.

By the numbers

Gateron Ink Red Linear

KTT Pine Linear

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

$4.60

$4.15 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Red and KTT Pine switches have some similarities and differences. Both switches utilize a proprietary INK blend for the top housing of the Ink Red and polycarbonate for the Pine. One similarity between the two is that they both result in a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile. However, the Ink Red's INK blend is described as not overly sharp, while the Pine's polycarbonate creates a crisper sound. Additionally, the INK blend is known for its clacky sound, while the polycarbonate produces a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the Pine's polycarbonate top housing is translucent, making it ideal for RGB lighting, while the Ink Red's INK blend does not provide this feature.

Moving on to the bottom housings, both switches again use the INK blend for the Ink Red and polycarbonate for the Pine. Similar to the top housings, they share the quality of creating a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile. The bottom housing material has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down. In this regard, both the INK blend and the polycarbonate contribute to the satisfying thin and higher-pitched clacky sound. However, the polycarbonate's stiffness adds to the overall clear and resonant sound profile of the Pine switch.

It is worth noting that if a switch has different housing materials for the top and bottom, the qualities brought by each material will be split between the two. When pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing's qualities will be felt, while releasing the key will showcase the impact of the top housing. Therefore, both the Ink Red and Pine switches will provide similar results in terms of the overall sound profile but with slight variations due to the characteristics of their respective housing materials.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, we find that they are quite similar in terms of weight. Both switches have an actuation force of 45 grams, which means that the force required to trigger a keystroke is the same for both switches. Similarly, both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the Ink Red requiring 60 grams and the Pine requiring 58 grams of force to fully press down the key.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, both switches offer a comfortable actuation force that allows for extended typing sessions without causing fatigue. This makes them suitable choices for situations such as bringing a keyboard to work or engaging in long gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience may lean towards options with heavier forces. In this case, both switches provide a slightly heavier bottom out force, with the Ink Red being slightly heavier at 60 grams compared to the Pine's 58 grams. This subtle difference may be noticeable to those who have a preference for a more pronounced tactile feedback. Overall, both the Gateron Ink Red and KTT Pine switches offer reliable and consistent actuation and bottom out forces, providing a pleasant typing experience for a variety of users.

Travel distance

The travel distance of a switch is an important factor to consider when comparing different options. In the case of the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, both switches have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key, you will experience the same distance of travel regardless of which switch you choose. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of the tactile feedback and overall typing experience when using either switch. The travel distance is equally short and long for both the Gateron Ink Red and KTT Pine switches.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Ink Red switch offers a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement. This makes it suitable for most typing styles and environments, whether you're a beginner or advanced user. The Ink Reds also have a unique chirpy sound that sets them apart from other switches. On the other hand, the KTT Pine switch produces a deeper and richer sound profile, characterized by a lower frequency range. It offers a bass-heavy and mellow tone, providing a different auditory experience compared to the Ink Reds. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Red switch is known for providing a silky and exceptionally smooth typing experience. These switches minimize resistance when pressing and releasing keys, resulting in an effortless and smooth keystroke. They are also described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that appeals to a wide range of users. Additionally, the Ink Reds have a polished finish and factory lubing, reducing friction and enhancing the overall smoothness of the typing feel. On the other hand, the KTT Pine switch offers a buttery typing experience, providing a seamless and fluid keystroke sensation. The creamy feel of these switches is similar to gliding your fingers across the keys with ease, as each keypress effortlessly melts into the switch. This smoothness is achieved through factory lubrication or specific materials used in the switch construction.

Based on the available information, the Gateron Ink Red and KTT Pine switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Ink Red is associated with a neutral sound profile and a silky, polished feel, the Pine switch provides a bassier sound profile and a buttery, creamy feel. These distinctions make them suitable for different preferences and typing styles. However, if you are looking for a smooth and effortless typing experience, both switches offer similar characteristics. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preferences and the specific typing experience one seeks.

Conclusion

To wrap up, if you prefer a lighter typing style and prioritize smoothness and ease of typing, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch would be your best choice. With its lower actuation force and satisfyingly smooth feel, this switch is perfect for those who want a comfortable and effortless typing experience. Additionally, the Ink Reds have a crispy and clacky sound profile, making them a great option for those who enjoy a more neutral or chirpy sound. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a buttery smooth feel, the KTT Pine linear switch is the way to go. These switches are built for an effortless typing experience and feature a polished, factory-lubed finish that minimizes friction for smooth key travel. The Pine switches offer a bassy and low-pitched sound profile, adding a touch of depth and richness to your typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Ink Red and the KTT Pine will depend on your typing style, preference for switch feel, and desired sound profile.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Ink Red Linear

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

Learn more

KTT Pine Linear

$4.60

$4.15 per 10

Learn more