Gateron Ink Red vs. KTT Rose
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Red and the KTT Rose switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that come to mind are the Gateron Ink Red and the KTT Rose. Both switches are linear in nature, providing a consistent and smooth keystroke experience. The Ink Red stands out with its lower actuation force, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing style. With its satisfyingly smooth feel, crispy and clacky sound profile, and effortless typing capability, the Ink Red is a popular choice for many. On the other hand, the Rose switch offers a unique typing experience thanks to its progressive springs. This design choice provides a substantial yet not heavy feel, creating a satisfying sensation when typing. Additionally, users have reported hearing bassy raindrops when typing on the Rose switches, adding an extra touch of elegance. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Red and the KTT Rose differ significantly. The Ink Red utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend for both the top and bottom housing. This blend creates a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is described as clacky. On the other hand, the Rose switch features a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing. The polycarbonate material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, while the nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile.
In terms of aesthetics, the Ink Red's top housing is not translucent, while the Rose's top housing is made of translucent polycarbonate. This means that if you plan on using RGB lighting, the Rose switch would be a better option. It provides a visually appealing effect when the lighting shines through the clear housing.
When it comes to the feel of the switch, the Ink Red's bottom housing has more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. This means that when you press down on the key, you will feel the qualities of the bottom housing. In contrast, the top housing of a switch, like the Rose, has a more significant impact on the sound when you let go of a key. The difference in materials between the top and bottom housing of these switches results in varying experiences for users depending on their preferences for sound and feel.
Overall, while both switches offer their own unique qualities, the Gateron Ink Red and KTT Rose provide different sound profiles and aesthetic options due to their housing materials. The Ink Red's proprietary INK blend offers a satisfying thin and higher-pitched clacky sound, while the Rose's combination of polycarbonate and nylon creates a sharper and fuller sound experience. Both switches have their merits, but the choice ultimately depends on personal preferences regarding sound, aesthetics, and the impact of the housing materials on the typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. The Gateron Ink Red, with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, falls into the medium range for both measurements. On the other hand, the actuation force of the KTT Rose is unknown, which makes it difficult to directly compare. However, the bottom out force of the Rose is 63.5 grams, which places it in the medium-heavy category.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Gateron Ink Red could be a suitable choice as its actuation and bottom out forces are both lighter than those of the KTT Rose. This lighter weight allows for prolonged typing sessions without inducing fatigue, making it ideal for work or lengthy gaming sessions.
On the flip side, for individuals who desire a more substantial typing feel and a stronger push, the KTT Rose with its medium-heavy bottom out force may be a better option. While the actuation force of the Rose is unknown, the higher bottom out force suggests a slightly more forceful keystroke experience. This can provide a satisfying and tactile sensation for those who prefer a heavier switch.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Red and KTT Rose switches differ in terms of their actuation and bottom out forces. The Ink Red is lighter in both measurements, making it suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions, whereas the Rose offers a slightly heftier typing experience, which can be preferred by individuals seeking a more forceful keystroke.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, meaning they travel a total of 4 millimeters from the top to the bottom when pressed. This indicates that in terms of travel distance, both switches will provide a similar tactile experience to users. Therefore, whether one chooses the Gateron Ink Red or the KTT Rose, they can expect comparable results in terms of the distance the switch travels when pressing down on a key.
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 Rose comes in at $3.01 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 satisfyingly smooth typing experience with a crispy and clacky sound profile. It is described as having a neutral sound profile, suitable for most intents and purposes. However, it also has a unique acoustic signature that gives it a little chirp, setting it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the KTT Rose linear switch is known for its low-pitched sound. It has a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Like the Ink Red, the Rose switch also has a neutral sound profile. Overall, the Ink Red and Rose switches offer different sound characteristics, but both have a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch is described as silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience. It enhances the overall smoothness of the typing feel and minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Additionally, it is considered to have a mild feel, providing a gentle typing experience. The switch is also polished, which means it has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. This is thanks to either the materials used or factory lubrication, reducing friction and ensuring smooth key travel. Similarly, the KTT Rose linear switch also offers a mild and approachable typing experience. It is polished as well, providing reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches share similar qualities in terms of feel, ensuring a comfortable typing experience.
Taking all the available information into account, the Gateron Ink Red and KTT Rose linear switches offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel. The Ink Red has a neutral sound profile with a slight chirp and provides a silky and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Rose switch has a low-pitched sound and offers a mild and polished feel. While they have their own unique qualities, both switches have a moderate actuation force requirement and are suitable for most typing purposes. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preference and the desired sound and feel experience. However, if a similar result is desired, opting for either switch would provide a comparable experience as they share similar characteristics.
Conclusion
In closing, if you have a lighter typing style and prefer a switch with a lower actuation force, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. With its medium bottom out force of 60 grams, it provides a smooth and effortless typing experience. Additionally, the Ink Reds have a satisfyingly smooth feel and produce a crisp and clacky sound. On the other hand, if you are looking for a unique and substantial typing experience without the heaviness, the KTT Rose linear switch would be a great option. With a slightly higher bottom out force of 63.5 grams, the Rose switches offer a bassy raindrop sound profile and a beautiful aesthetic. Ultimately, both switches have a neutral sound profile and a polished feel, making them suitable for most intents and purposes whether you are a beginner or an advanced user, or if you plan to use them at home or work. Summarizing, your choice between the Gateron Ink Red and the KTT Rose will depend on your typing style and the specific typing experience you desire.
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