Gateron Mini i vs. KTT Peach
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mini i and the KTT Peach switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Mini i and KTT Peach stand out as popular choices for different preferences. The Gateron Mini i is a tactile switch known for its gentle tactility, making it ideal for those seeking a subtle yet satisfying typing experience. With a fairly muted sound profile, these switches are lightweight and perfect for long hours of comfortable typing in a professional office setting. On the other hand, the KTT Peach is a linear switch renowned for its smooth typing experience and deep, thocky sound profile. While the Peach switch offers a more neutral and low-pitched feel compared to the Mini i, both switches have their own distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. 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
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Spring
13mm progressive spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Mini i and KTT Peach both feature nylon as the material for their bottom housings, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. On the other hand, while the Mini i has a nylon top housing, the Peach's top housing is made of polycarbonate. Polycarbonate offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile as it is a stiffer plastic that produces a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the Peach's clear polycarbonate housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding to the visual appeal of the switch.
In terms of sound and feel, the different housing materials of the Gateron Mini i and KTT Peach result in varying typing experiences. The Mini i's nylon top and bottom housings contribute to a consistent deep and full sound profile, both when pressing down on a key and when releasing it. Conversely, the Peach's combination of polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housing splits the qualities between the two ends of the switch. The bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, while the polycarbonate top housing plays a larger role in the sound when a key is released. This creates a unique typing experience depending on which part of the switch is interacting with the user at any given moment.
While the housing materials of the Gateron Mini i and KTT Peach result in different sound profiles, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience. The nylon bottom housings of both switches provide a similar deep and full sound profile, thanks to nylon's sound-absorbing properties. However, the polycarbonate top housing of the Peach delivers a sharper, higher-pitched sound compared to the Mini i's nylon top housing. Ultimately, whether you prefer a duller and rounder sound with the Mini i or a crisper and more resonant sound with the Peach, both switches showcase the impact that housing materials can have on the overall typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron Mini i tactile switch to the KTT Peach linear switch, we see that the Mini i has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Peach's 45 grams, making the Mini i easier to type on initially. However, the Mini i also has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams compared to the Peach's 53 grams, meaning that the Peach requires slightly more force for a full keystroke. Both switches fall on the lighter end of the spectrum when it comes to force requirements, making them ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the Gateron Mini i and the KTT Peach will come down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, slightly shorter than the KTT Peach linear switch which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Mini i offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the Peach linear switch provides a deeper key press feel with its longer travel distance, which some users may prefer for a more satisfying typing experience. Both switches offer their own advantages and it ultimately comes down to personal preference when choosing between the two based on travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Mini i comes in at $6.00, whereas the KTT Peach comes in at $2.91.
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 Mini i tactile switch offers a fairly neutral sound profile that strikes a balance between being audible enough to provide satisfying feedback without being overly loud. On the other hand, the KTT Peach linear switch generates a low-pitched thocky sound that is deeper and more bass-heavy, providing a unique auditory experience. Both switches fall within the same category of having a moderate sound profile, making them suitable for various environments and user preferences.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch is described as bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, snappy, subtle, and stepped. These qualities point towards a switch that offers a lively, responsive, and comfortable typing experience with a gentle resistance and minimal finger fatigue. Conversely, the KTT Peach linear switch is described as mild, providing a more approachable and gentle typing feel that is suitable for a wide range of users. While the specific feel of each switch differs slightly, both are designed to enhance the typing experience by offering a smooth and satisfying keystroke.
Overall, both the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the KTT Peach linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Mini i switch leans towards a more balanced sound profile and a bouncier typing experience, the Peach switch provides a deeper, thocky sound and a milder typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. However, users can expect similar levels of quality and performance from both switches in their respective categories.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the KTT Peach linear switch, consider the environment in which you will be using the keyboard. If you are working in a quiet office setting that demands professionalism and minimal noise, the Mini i switches may be the better choice for their lightweight feel, gentle tactility, and muted sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a syrupy smooth typing experience with a deep, thocky sound and a gentle typing feel, the Peach switches may be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the specific requirements of your typing environment.
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