Gateron Mini i vs. KTT Pine
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mini i and the KTT Pine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Mini i tactile switch with the KTT Pine linear switch, one can't help but notice their distinct characteristics. The Gateron Mini i switch offers a gentle tactility with a fairly muted sound profile, making it perfect for office environments where quietness is key. On the other hand, the KTT Pine switch boasts a smooth and buttery typing experience with its medium-heavy actuation force. While the Mini i is categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Easy-to-press', 'Mild', 'Neutral', 'Snappy', 'Subtle', and 'Stepped', the Pine switch is labeled as 'Bassy', 'Buttery', 'Creamy', and 'Low-pitched'. Each switch has its own unique qualities that cater to different preferences and needs. 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
58g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Spring
15.5mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Mini i and the KTT Pine switches offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials, with the Mini i featuring a nylon top and bottom housing and the Pine utilizing a polycarbonate top and bottom housing. The Nylon housing of the Mini i provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Pine's polycarbonate housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucent polycarbonate housing is especially useful for RGB lighting effects, giving the Pine switch an added visual appeal.
Despite their differences, both the Mini i and Pine switches showcase the influence of housing materials on sound quality. While the Mini i's Nylon housing leans towards a deeper and fuller sound, the Pine's polycarbonate housing offers a sharper and crisper sound profile. The use of different materials for the top and bottom housings of each switch allows for a split in the qualities each housing material brings, influencing both the sound when pressing down on a key and when releasing it. This distinction highlights how the choice of housing material can impact the overall typing experience and sound signature of a switch.
In terms of design and functionality, the Nylon and polycarbonate housing of the Gateron Mini i and KTT Pine switches respectively provide key differences in sound production and aesthetics. While the Mini i's nylon housing creates a softer and more rounded sound, the Pine's polycarbonate housing offers a clearer and more resonant sound profile. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate in the Pine switch's housing allows for RGB lighting effects, enhancing the overall visual appeal of the switch. Both switches showcase the importance of housing materials in determining the sound and feel of a mechanical keyboard switch, catering to different preferences and requirements for typing enthusiasts.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, we find that the Mini i has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Pine's 45 grams, making the Mini i easier to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Mini i requires 50 grams compared to the Pine's 58 grams, indicating that the Pine switch provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of typing or gaming, the Mini i may be the better option. On the other hand, those who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience should opt for the Pine switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it shorter than the KTT Pine linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. While 4.0mm is considered the most traditional travel distance and 3.0mm the most shallow, the Mini i falls somewhere in between. Gamers may appreciate the shorter travel distance of the Mini i for faster response times, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the longer travel distance of the Pine. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Pine has an MSRP of $4.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $4.15.
The Gateron Mini i comes in at $6.00 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 Mini i tactile switch is best characterized as having a neutral sound profile, which is moderate and suitable for various environments. On the other hand, the KTT Pine linear switch is known for its bassy and low-pitched sound, giving a deeper and richer tone during key presses. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that can enhance the typing experience based on personal preferences and the overall setup of the keyboard.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch is described as bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, snappy, subtle, and stepped, offering a range of tactile feedback options for users who prefer a gentle typing experience. Conversely, the KTT Pine linear switch is known for its buttery and creamy feel, providing a smooth and effortless typing sensation due to a factory-lubed finish. The buttery feel of the Pine switch gives a fluid keystroke experience that can contribute to a comfortable typing experience over extended periods.
Overall, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the KTT Pine linear switch offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel. The Mini i provides a balance between tactility and a muted sound profile, perfect for professional settings where noise levels need to be kept at a minimum. In contrast, the Pine switch prioritizes smoothness and effortless typing, creating a pleasant typing experience for users who prioritize comfort and ease of use. Depending on individual preferences and requirements, both switches can offer a satisfying typing experience, albeit with different sound and feel profiles.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Mini i tactile switch or the KTT Pine linear switch, it ultimately depends on your preferences and typing needs. If you value a lighter key press with subtle tactility and a quiet typing experience, the Gateron Mini i switch is a great choice, especially for office settings where professionalism and comfort are key. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier key press with a smooth and buttery typing feel, along with a rich and bassy sound profile, the KTT Pine linear switch is the way to go. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider what characteristics are most important to you when making your selection.
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