Gateron Ink Red vs. KTT Wine Red

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two options that stand out are the Gateron Ink Red and the KTT Wine Red. Both switches belong to the linear category, providing a smooth typing experience. The Ink Red, with its lower actuation force, is a great choice for those with a lighter typing style. Its satisfyingly smooth and effortless typing experience, accompanied by a crispy and clacky sound profile, makes it a popular option. On the other hand, the Wine Red switches offer a pillowy light type feel and a deep, rich sound profile. They are known for their intoxicating typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Ink Red Linear

KTT Wine Red Linear

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

$2.71 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Gateron Ink Red and the KTT Wine Red differ in terms of their housing materials. The Ink Red features a proprietary INK blend top and bottom housing, while the Wine Red utilizes polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing. The INK blend top housing of the Ink Red offers a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile, described as clacky. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing of the Wine Red creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which allows for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, polycarbonate is transparent, making it ideal for RGB lighting if that is something you desire. In terms of the bottom housing, both switches have similar characteristics, providing a thin and higher-pitched sound. However, the materials used in the bottom housing may have a subtle effect on the bottom-out sound and feel.

Looking at the top housing of the switches, the INK blend top housing of the Ink Red provides a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound. The proprietary blend by Gateron achieves a clacky sound without being overly sharp. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing of the Wine Red produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, which is particularly beneficial if you plan to utilize RGB lighting. The translucent nature of polycarbonate allows for better light transmission, enhancing the overall visual experience. Therefore, if you prioritize a distinct and bright sound, the Wine Red with its polycarbonate top housing may be a better choice for you.

When it comes to the bottom housing, both switches offer similar qualities. The INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Red and the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Wine Red provide a thin and higher-pitched sound. Although the specific characteristics of each switch may slightly differ, they both contribute to a pointed and satisfying sound profile. While the bottom housing may have a subtle impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, the differences between the two materials may not be as noticeable compared to the top housing. Therefore, if you find the thin and higher-pitched sound desirable, both the Ink Red and the Wine Red will provide similar results in terms of the bottom-out experience.

In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Red and the KTT Wine Red showcase distinct housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Ink Red features a proprietary INK blend housing, delivering a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound in both the top and bottom housing. On the other hand, the Wine Red incorporates polycarbonate in both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The polycarbonate material is particularly advantageous for RGB lighting due to its translucency. Although there may be subtle differences in the bottom housing, both switches provide a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound. Overall, your choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prefer the clacky sound of the Ink Red or the more distinct and bright sound of the Wine Red.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. The actuation force of the Ink Red is slightly higher at 45 grams, whereas the Wine Red requires 44 grams of force to actuate. Both switches fall within the realm of medium actuation force, providing a responsive typing experience.

In terms of bottom out force, the Ink Red requires 60 grams of force to fully press down, while the Wine Red requires 55 grams, making it slightly lighter. This means that when typing on the Ink Red, there will be a slightly more substantial feel, as it requires a bit more force to bottom out. On the other hand, the Wine Red offers a lighter bottom out force, which may be preferred by those who are looking for a more effortless typing experience or who type for extended periods of time.

Weight can be a significant factor for keyboard users, as a lighter actuation force allows for more extended typing sessions, which is ideal for work or lengthy gaming sessions. However, some individuals prefer a stronger push feel for a more satisfying typing experience. In this case, the Ink Red would be the better choice, as it has a heavier bottom out force compared to the Wine Red.

Overall, while both switches offer a linear typing experience with similar actuation forces, the Ink Red provides a slightly heavier bottom out force, while the Wine Red offers a lighter option. Depending on personal preference and typing needs, individuals can choose between the two switches to achieve their desired level of typing experience.

Travel distance

The Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will feel the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Both switches provide a consistent tactile experience in terms of travel distance, ensuring a similar typing or gaming experience.

Price comparison

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 purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you use it 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 Wine Red linear switch offers a deep and rich sound profile characterized by a lower frequency range, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. It also has a low-pitched tone, which gives it a more bass-heavy and mellow sound compared to higher-pitched switches. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch provides an exceptionally smooth typing experience, earning it the descriptor of being silky. This switch enhances the overall smoothness of the typing feel and minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Additionally, it offers a mild typing experience, making it approachable for most users as its qualities fall within a safe middle-ground zone. The Ink Reds also have a polished finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel, thanks to either the materials used or factory lubrication. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red linear switch's subjective feel is unknown.

Based on the available information, it is clear that the Gateron Ink Red linear switch is praised for its smoothness, crisp and clacky sound profile, and effortless typing experience. Its sound is neutral and chirpy, and its feel is silky, mild, and polished. The KTT Wine Red linear switch, while lacking information on its subjective feel, is known for its deep and rich sound profile with a bassy and low-pitched tone. If you are looking for a switch with a lighter typing style and a satisfyingly smooth feel, the Ink Red would be a great choice. However, if you prefer a switch with a deep and rich sound, the Wine Red might be more suitable. Ultimately, the final decision would depend on personal preference and the specific requirements of the user.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you have a lighter typing style and prefer a switch with a slightly lower actuation force, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch would be a great choice for you. These switches are known for their smoothness and ease of typing, providing a satisfying experience. Additionally, the Ink Reds have a neutral sound profile with a slight chirp, making them suitable for both beginners and advanced users in various settings. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red linear switch offers a pillowy light type feel and a deep, rich sound profile with a bassy and low-pitched tone. Although there is no specific description for the feel of the Wine Red, its qualities can be inferred based on the sound profile. Overall, the choice between these two switches depends on your personal preferences and typing style. Whether you prefer a lighter actuation force and neutral sound (Ink Red) or a pillowy light feel with a deep, rich sound (Wine Red), both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, the decision is yours based on your individual preferences.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Ink Red Linear

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

Learn more

KTT Wine Red Linear

$2.71 per 10

Learn more