KTT Kang White vs. Gateron Silent Ink Black

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Kang White and the Gateron Silent Ink Black are popular options. The Kang White is a linear switch that is best known for its exquisite representation of a poppy linear switch, accompanied by a dazzling typing sound. With its self-lubricating material, this switch offers an unparalleled smoothness while typing. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black is a linear switch that is highly favored for environments that require quieter typing. With a cushion-like bottom-out feel and minimal audio feedback, this switch provides a silent and comfortable typing experience. While both switches have their unique qualities, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities to help you decide on the best switch for your specific needs.

By the numbers

KTT Kang White Linear

Gateron Silent Ink Black Linear

$1.99 per 10

$8.50

$8.35 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the KTT Kang White and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches have distinct differences that can be attributed to their material compositions. The Kang White utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer plastic composition. This results in a higher-pitched sound that is ideal for those who prefer a clear and resonant typing experience. In contrast, the Silent Ink Black features Gateron's proprietary INK blend top housing, known for its pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. It offers a satisfying, thin, and clacky sound that strikes a balance between sharpness and resonance.

Moving on to the bottom housing, the Kang White incorporates a nylon material, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to its counterpart. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This is beneficial for those seeking a typing experience with a more muted and substantial sound. Similarly, the Silent Ink Black utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend bottom housing, which complements its top housing by offering a pointed and high-pitched yet not overly sharp sound profile. This adds to the overall clacky sensation and contributes to a harmonious typing experience.

While these switches have distinct housing materials, it is important to note that the top and bottom housing materials of a switch play different roles in determining the overall sound and feel. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and tactile feel when the key is fully pressed down, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. Therefore, even if the housing materials differ between the Kang White and the Silent Ink Black, the combination of the top and bottom housings will synergistically contribute to a cohesive typing experience for both switches.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Kang White linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Kang White has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, while the Silent Ink Black requires a heavier force of 60 grams to trigger a keystroke. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Kang White is 58 grams, while the Silent Ink Black requires a more substantial 70 grams.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Kang White would be a suitable choice as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. This makes it ideal for work environments or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience would lean towards the Silent Ink Black. The heavier actuation and bottom out force of this switch provides a satisfying tactile feedback that some typists may find more enjoyable.

It is important to note that both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range, offering a balance between the lighter and heavier options. Therefore, regardless of which switch is chosen, users can expect a decent degree of feedback and responsiveness. Ultimately, the decision between the KTT Kang White and the Gateron Silent Ink Black will depend on personal preference towards typing feel and the desired level of force required for keystrokes.

Travel distance

Both the KTT Kang White linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same distance of travel. Therefore, whether you opt for the Kang White or the Silent Ink Black, you can expect similar results in terms of the travel distance of the switch.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Kang White linear switch is well-known for its dazzling typing sound, which is low-pitched. Low-pitched switches tend to have a bass-heavy and mellow tone, providing a pleasant auditory experience. Additionally, the self-lubricating material of the Kang White switch ensures an unparalleled smoothness when typing, eliminating any unwanted friction.

On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch is a silenced version of the Ink Black switch, specifically designed for quieter typing environments. This switch offers a cushy and pillow-like bottom-out feel, providing a comfortable typing experience. The audio feedback of the Silent Ink Black switch is minimal, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments.

While the Kang White switch focuses on an exceptional typing sound and smoothness, the Silent Ink Black switch prioritizes a quiet and comfortable typing experience. Depending on your preference, you can choose between the low-pitched, dazzling sound of the Kang White or the muted, quieter sound of the Silent Ink Black switch. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing needs.

In terms of feel, the Kang White switch lacks specific descriptions, so its tactile experience is unknown. However, the Silent Ink Black switch is described as silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience. This smoothness enhances the overall feel, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Additionally, the polished finish of the Silent Ink Black switch contributes to a sleek typing experience, reducing friction and ensuring smooth key travel.

In summary, both the KTT Kang White linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch have their own distinct subjective qualities. The Kang White excels in providing a dazzling, low-pitched typing sound and an unparalleled smoothness. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black shines with its muted, quiet sound, cushiony feel, and polished smoothness. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, you can choose between these two switches to achieve a satisfying typing experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium bottom out force and a dazzling typing sound, the KTT Kang White is a great choice. Its self-lubricating material provides unparalleled smoothness when typing. On the other hand, if you need a quieter typing experience, the Gateron Silent Ink Black is the switch for you. With a medium-heavy bottom out force, it offers a cushy, pillow-like feel and minimal audio feedback. The Kang White has a low-pitched, neutral sound profile, while the Silent Ink Black produces a softer and quieter sound, thanks to its muted design. In terms of feel, the Kang White does not have any specific descriptors, while the Silent Ink Black is described as silky and polished, enhancing the overall smoothness and reducing friction. Consider these factors when making your decision and choose the switch that best suits your preferences and typing needs.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Kang White Linear

$1.99 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Silent Ink Black Linear

$8.50

$8.35 per 10

Learn more