Gateron Ink Yellow vs. KTT Peach
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Yellow and the KTT Peach switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that often come up in discussions are the Gateron Ink Yellow and the KTT Peach. Both switches fall under the linear switch category, providing a smooth typing experience without any tactile feedback. The Gateron Ink Yellow is best known for its shorter travel distance, appealing to those who seek a typing experience between that of a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard. This switch showcases a pleasant smoothness and clackiness, giving it a unique feel. On the other hand, the KTT Peach boasts multiple prized characteristics of a linear switch. With a syrupy smooth typing experience and a deep, thocky sound profile, it's an ideal choice for those who enjoy a more immersive and satisfying typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
13mm progressive spring
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the Gateron Ink Yellow and the KTT Peach switches offer distinct characteristics and sound profiles. The Ink Yellow features a proprietary INK blend for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a pointed and higher-pitched sound profile. This sound is described as satisfyingly clacky. In comparison, the Peach switch utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances clarity and resonance, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. While both switches offer a high-pitched sound, the Ink Yellow's INK blend housing may provide a slightly less sharp tone.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Ink Yellow also uses the proprietary INK blend, which contributes to its pointed and higher-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Peach switch employs a nylon bottom housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This softer material dampens the sound, creating a rounder and less crisp tone compared to the Ink Yellow's bottom housing. Thus, the Peach switch may exhibit a slightly more subdued and muffled sound when bottoming out the keys.
It is important to note that the top and bottom housing materials in a switch play distinct roles in the overall sound and feel. When pressing down on a switch, the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. Since both the Ink Yellow and the Peach switches differ in their bottom housing materials, typing on the Peach may provide a deeper and fuller sound due to the absorption properties of nylon. Conversely, the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key. Both switches offer similar high-pitched sounds, but the polycarbonate top housing in the Peach may provide a slightly sharper and crisper tone when compared to the INK blend top housing of the Ink Yellow.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the KTT Peach linear switch, there are notable differences to consider. The Gateron Ink Yellow has a slightly heavier actuation force of 60 grams, compared to the Peach's lighter actuation force of 45 grams. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Ink Yellow is also slightly heavier at 67 grams, while the Peach measures 53 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Peach switch would be the more suitable choice as it has a lower actuation force and bottom out force. This lighter weight allows for extended typing sessions and is beneficial for individuals who bring their keyboards to work or engage in lengthy gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who desire a more substantial and responsive typing experience may lean towards the Gateron Ink Yellow. Its heavier actuation and bottom out forces provide a stronger push feel when typing.
Both switches offer a medium-weight range, with the Ink Yellow leaning more towards medium-heavy and the Peach towards medium-light. Despite the varying forces, users can expect similar overall results as the actuation and bottom out forces of both switches fall within reasonable proximity. Ultimately, the decision between the two will depend on individual preferences and the desired typing experience – whether one prioritizes a lighter touch or a more solid and forceful keystroke.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the KTT Peach linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Ink Yellow falls on the shorter end of the spectrum, providing a more responsive typing experience preferred by gamers who value faster response times. On the other hand, the Peach offers a longer travel distance, which may appeal to individuals who prefer a deeper and more satisfying keystroke. Both switches offer distinct advantages depending on personal preference and specific use cases.
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 Peach comes in at $2.91 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Ink Yellow switch is characterized by a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement. This makes it suitable for various purposes, whether you're a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or at work. Additionally, it has a clacky quality, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the KTT Peach switch has a low-pitched sound profile, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Similar to the Ink Yellow, the Peach switch also has a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, making it a versatile option for most users. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
As for the feel, the Ink Yellow switch offers a mild typing experience, providing a more gentle feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. This makes it approachable to most users, as its qualities fall in a safe middle-ground zone. Additionally, the Ink Yellow switch is described as polished, which means it has a smooth and refined finish resulting in a sleek typing experience. This enhanced smoothness is achieved through the use of specific materials or factory lubrication, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the KTT Peach switch also falls under the category of mild switches, offering a gentle typing experience similar to the Ink Yellow.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Ink Yellow and KTT Peach switches offer subjective qualities that are desirable for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the Ink Yellow showcases a clacky sound profile and a polished feel, the Peach offers a low-pitched sound and a mild typing experience. Both switches have a neutral sound profile and are suitable for a variety of applications. Depending on individual preferences and the desired typing experience, either switch can provide a great user experience. It's important to consider the other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps that can influence the overall sound and feel. Regardless of your choice, both switches are likely to yield similar results in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a typing experience that falls between that of a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard, the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch would be a great choice. With a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, it offers a pleasant smoothness and clackiness that many users appreciate. Additionally, the Ink Yellow is a neutral switch, suitable for both beginners and advanced users, with a moderate actuation force requirement and sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a syrupy smooth typing experience and a deep, thocky sound profile, the KTT Peach linear switch would be a better fit. It has a medium-light bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer a lighter touch. The Peach switch is also described as low-pitched, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and actuation force. Consider what qualities are most important to you and select the switch that aligns with your desired typing experience.
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