Gateron Ink Red vs. KTT Purple Star
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Red and the KTT Purple Star switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Ink Red and KTT Purple Star mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer a smooth typing experience ideal for those with a lighter touch. The Ink Red stands out for its lower actuation force, providing a satisfyingly smooth and clacky sound profile, perfect for those who prefer a crisp typing feel. On the other hand, the Purple Star features an all-POM construction, offering a buttery smooth typing experience with a neutral sound signature. With a very light 45g bottom-out, the Purple Star is a great choice for light typists seeking comfort and ease. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Red and KTT Purple Star both have unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. While the Ink Red features a proprietary INK blend top housing with a relatively high-pitched and clacky sound, the Purple Star utilizes POM top housing to create a deeper and more muted sound. This contrast in sound qualities could result in a different typing experience for users, with the Ink Red offering a more sharp and pointed sound compared to the Purple Star's smoother and deeper tones.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Ink Red's proprietary INK blend delivers a similar high-pitched and clacky sound profile, while the Purple Star's POM bottom housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. The bottom housing of a switch typically influences the bottom-out sound and feel, so users may notice a difference in the tactile feedback when typing on these two switches. The contrast between the bottom housing materials could impact the overall typing experience, with the Ink Red providing a more sharp and defined feel compared to the Purple Star's smoother and softer touch.
Overall, the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Red and KTT Purple Star play a significant role in shaping the sound and feel of these switches. While both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, the Ink Red's INK blend top and bottom housing contribute to a more pointed and clacky sound profile, while the Purple Star's POM top and bottom housing create a deeper and more muted sound. Users who prefer a sharper and higher-pitched sound may lean towards the Gateron Ink Red, while those looking for a smoother and deeper typing experience may prefer the KTT Purple Star.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch have some key differences. The Gateron Ink Red has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the KTT Purple Star's 43 grams, making it a bit more resistant to accidental keystrokes. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Ink Red requires 60 grams of force while the Purple Star only requires 50 grams, making it lighter and potentially more comfortable for extended typing sessions. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the KTT Purple Star, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Gateron Ink Red. Overall, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing force and feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the KTT Purple Star linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Purple Star may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the slightly longer travel distance of the Ink Red may provide a more substantial feeling when typing. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, but the difference of 0.5 mm may be noticeable to those sensitive to such variations. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for a shorter, snappier feel or a slightly longer, more satisfying keypress.
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 Purple Star comes in at $4.88 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 linear switch offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for most intents and purposes. It has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound level, making it a versatile choice for beginners and advanced users alike. Additionally, the Ink Red switch has a unique chirpy characteristic that adds a bit of personality to the typing experience. In comparison, the KTT Purple Star linear switch provides a low-pitched sound that is bass-heavy and mellow, offering a calming typing environment. The sound of both switches will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
In terms of feel, both the Gateron Ink Red and the KTT Purple Star switches offer a gentle typing experience suitable for most users. The Ink Red switch is lauded for its silky smooth feel, mild typing sensation, and polished finish that enhances the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Purple Star switch provides an easy-to-press sensation with minimal resistance during key presses, resulting in effortless and comfortable typing sessions. Both switches fall within the realm of mild switches, providing a safe and approachable typing feel for a wide range of users. With similar qualities in the feel department, users can expect comparable typing experiences from both switches.
Considering all the available information, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch each offer unique qualities when it comes to sound and feel. While the Ink Red switch provides a crisper and clackier sound with a silky smooth typing feel, the Purple Star switch offers a more neutral sound profile with an easy-to-press sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound and typing experience. Both switches cater to light typists with their lower actuation forces and provide a satisfying and comfortable typing experience, making them excellent options for those seeking a top-notch mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Ink Red and the KTT Purple Star linear switches, consider your typing style and preferences. If you have a lighter typing style and prefer a switch with a medium bottom out force, the Gateron Ink Red would be a great choice for you. The Ink Red offers a smooth typing experience with a crispy sound profile, making it satisfying to type on. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a buttery smooth typing experience, the KTT Purple Star switches with their all-POM construction would be a better fit. The Purple Star switches have a light bottom-out force, making them ideal for light typists looking for ease and comfort. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and typing style.
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