Gateron Ink Yellow vs. KTT Purple Star
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Yellow and the KTT Purple Star switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to comparing the Gateron Ink Yellow and the KTT Purple Star mechanical keyboard switches, both offer unique characteristics to consider. The Ink Yellow is a linear switch that stands out for its shorter travel, 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 looking for a polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Purple Star is also a linear switch with an all-POM construction, offering a buttery smooth typing experience paired with a neutral sound signature. With a light 45g bottom-out, the Purple Star is perfect for light typists seeking ease and comfort. 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
60g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Yellow and the KTT Purple Star offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The Ink Yellow's proprietary INK blend top housing provides a thin and higher-pitched clacky sound, while the Purple Star's POM top housing offers a deeper and relatively more muted sound. This contrast in sound profiles can significantly impact the typing experience for users seeking specific auditory feedback from their mechanical keyboard switches.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Gateron Ink Yellow's proprietary INK blend and the KTT Purple Star's POM bottom housing similarly contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch. Both offer characteristics that influence the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed. While the INK blend may provide a pointed and high-pitched sound profile, the POM bottom housing may offer a deeper and more muted sound, creating a varied typing experience for users to enjoy.
Overall, the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Yellow and the KTT Purple Star play key roles in shaping the sound profiles and tactile feedback of these mechanical keyboard switches. Whether it's the unique clacky sound of the INK blend top housing or the deeper, muted sound of the POM top housing, each material brings its own distinct qualities to enhance the typing experience. While the top and bottom housings may differ in material, their combined impact creates a harmonious blend of sound and feel that can appeal to a wide range of keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, it is evident that the Purple Star is the lighter option with an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Yellow switch is heavier, with an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel. Both switches offer a smooth linear action, but the weight difference between the two can cater to different preferences. For those who like a more effortless typing experience, the Purple Star would be the better choice, while the Ink Yellow would be suitable for those who prefer a bit more resistance for precision typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on individual typing preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, the distance traveled from the top to the bottom is identical, resulting in a similar tactile experience for the user. The uniformity in travel distance between the two switches allows for consistent typing performance and feel, making them both reliable options for keyboard enthusiasts.
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 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Ink Yellow switch offers a neutral and clacky typing experience, with a moderate actuation force requirement and a sharp, snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star switch provides a low-pitched, bass-heavy sound profile that contributes to a buttery smooth typing experience. Both switches have their own unique sound characteristics, with the Ink Yellow being more versatile for different purposes and the Purple Star delivering a mellower tone.
When it comes to feel, both the Gateron Ink Yellow and KTT Purple Star switches provide a mild typing experience that is gentle on the fingers. The Ink Yellow switch, with its polished and smooth finish, offers a refined typing experience that reduces friction and provides a sleek feel. In comparison, the Purple Star switch is easy-to-press and requires minimal force to activate, making typing effortless and comfortable. Both switches fall within the mild typing experience category, offering a safe middle-ground zone that most users will find approachable.
Overall, while the Gateron Ink Yellow and KTT Purple Star switches have their own unique sound and feel characteristics, they both provide a pleasant typing experience that caters to different preferences. Whether you prefer a neutral and clacky sound with moderate actuation force like the Ink Yellow, or a low-pitched and buttery smooth typing feel with easy-to-press switches like the Purple Star, you can expect a satisfying result from both options. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on your personal preference for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience and sound profile. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force with a shorter travel and a clacky sound, the Ink Yellow may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light bottom out force with a buttery smooth typing experience and a low-pitched sound, the Purple Star may be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and what feels most comfortable to you. Consider trying out both switches to determine which one aligns best with your typing style.
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