Gateron Ink Yellow vs. KTT MoonRosa
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Yellow and the KTT MoonRosa switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Ink Yellow and the KTT MoonRosa mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique advantages for different preferences. The Gateron Ink Yellow is renowned for its shorter travel distance, providing a typing experience that falls between that of a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard. With a smooth and clacky feel, this switch is ideal for those seeking a polished typing sensation. On the other hand, the KTT MoonRosa stands out for its buttery smooth typing experience and neutral sound signature, thanks to its all-POM construction. It is easy to press and offers a low-pitched sound profile for a pleasant typing session. However, to make the best decision based on your preferences, let's dive deeper into the specific characteristics of each switch.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
22mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Yellow and the KTT MoonRosa switches offer distinct sound profiles. The Ink Yellow's proprietary INK blend top housing creates a pointed, high-pitched sound that is described as clacky. In contrast, the MoonRosa's POM top housing produces a deeper, more muted sound. This difference in sound can significantly impact the typing experience for users who prefer a specific sound profile.
Similarly, the bottom housing materials of the Ink Yellow and the MoonRosa switches also contribute to their overall sound profiles. The Ink Yellow's proprietary INK blend bottom housing enhances the high-pitched, clacky sound of the switch, while the MoonRosa's POM bottom housing adds to the deeper, more muted sound profile. The bottom housing material plays a crucial role in the tactile feedback and sound produced when a key is pressed, making it an essential component in the overall typing experience.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the Gateron Ink Yellow and the KTT MoonRosa switches offer unique sound profiles, they ultimately complement each other to create a well-rounded typing experience. The combination of a pointed, high-pitched sound from the top housing of the Ink Yellow switch, and a deeper, more muted sound from the POM bottom housing of the MoonRosa switch, can cater to a wide range of user preferences. Whether you prioritize a clacky sound for typing feedback or a deeper, more muted sound for a quieter typing experience, both switches offer distinct qualities that can enhance your overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the KTT MoonRosa linear switch, it is evident that there is a significant difference in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Ink Yellow has a higher actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the MoonRosa has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, categorizing it as a lighter switch. This means that the MoonRosa will require less force to trigger a keystroke and bottom out compared to the Ink Yellow. While some may prefer the Ink Yellow for a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier forces, others may opt for the MoonRosa for a lighter feel that allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Ink Yellow and KTT MoonRosa linear switches have the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. With both switches having identical travel distances, users can enjoy similar tactile feedback and key press sensations when using either of these linear switches. In terms of travel distance, there is no difference between the Gateron Ink Yellow and KTT MoonRosa switches, ensuring a consistent typing experience for users of both switch types.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Yellow 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 Yellow for $7.35.
The KTT MoonRosa 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 Yellow switch offers a neutral and clacky typing experience, which provides a moderate actuation force requirement along with a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the KTT MoonRosa switch produces a low-pitched, bass-heavy, and mellow sound, creating a more subtle and relaxing typing atmosphere. Both switches can cater to different preferences depending on the desired sound profile, with the Ink Yellow leaning towards a sharper and more percussive sound, while the MoonRosa offers a deeper and calmer tone.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Yellow switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, offering a gentle typing feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel. This switch falls into a safe middle ground zone, appealing to a wide range of users with its approachable characteristics. On the other hand, the KTT MoonRosa switch also delivers a mild typing experience with easy-to-press keys, requiring minimal force to activate and enhancing the overall typing comfort. Both switches excel in providing a smooth and comfortable typing feel, making them suitable for extended typing sessions without causing finger fatigue.
Overall, the Gateron Ink Yellow and KTT MoonRosa switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences and typing styles. While the Ink Yellow provides a neutral and clacky sound with a polished and mild typing feel, the MoonRosa delivers a low-pitched sound with easy-to-press keys for a relaxed typing experience. Depending on whether you prefer a sharper or deeper sound profile and a smoother or easier key press, both switches can offer a satisfying typing experience that meets your individual preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel, but rest assured that you will get similar high-quality results with either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy linear switch with a smooth and clacky typing experience that is suitable for various purposes, then the Gateron Ink Yellow would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light linear switch with a buttery smooth and low-pitched typing experience that is gentle on your fingers, then the KTT MoonRosa would be the ideal option for you. Consider your preferences in terms of actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel when deciding between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and needs.
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