Gateron Mini i vs. KTT Wine Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mini i and the KTT Wine Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Mini i and the KTT Wine Red each offer unique features to consider. The Gateron Mini i, a tactile switch, is perfect for those seeking a gentle tactility in their keystrokes, providing a satisfying feedback without the loud clack typically associated with mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red, a linear switch, offers a pillowy light typing feel and a deep, rich sound profile that can enhance the typing experience. While the Mini i is ideal for office environments where quiet professionalism is key, the Wine Red is great for those looking for a smoother typing experience with a bit of flair. 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
44g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Mini i and KTT Wine Red both utilize different housing materials for their top and bottom housings. The Mini i features a nylon top housing, which is known for providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Wine Red incorporates a polycarbonate top housing, which yields a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile because of its stiffer plastic composition. While the Mini i's nylon bottom housing contributes to a duller and rounder sound, the Wine Red's polycarbonate bottom housing enhances the clear and resonant sound of the switch.
In terms of aesthetics, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Wine Red allows for a translucent appearance, making it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Mini i's nylon top housing may not offer the same visual appeal as the clear polycarbonate of the Wine Red. However, both switches aim to deliver unique sound profiles based on their respective housing materials. Despite their differences, both the Mini i and Wine Red are designed to cater to users looking for distinct typing experiences with their choice of housing materials.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Mini i and KTT Wine Red will depend on individual preferences for sound and aesthetics. The nylon and polycarbonate housing materials offer contrasting characteristics in terms of sound profiles, with the Mini i providing a deeper and fuller sound while the Wine Red offers a sharper and crisper sound. Whether users prioritize the tactile feel of the bottom housing or the sound upon key release from the top housing, both switches offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
The Gateron Mini i tactile switch is lighter in both actuation force and bottom out force compared to the KTT Wine Red linear switch. The Mini i requires 40 grams of force to actuate and 50 grams to bottom out, while the Wine Red needs 44 grams to actuate and 55 grams to bottom out. Both switches provide a relatively light typing experience that may be preferred for extended typing or gaming sessions. Those who prefer a slightly stronger push may opt for the Wine Red switch for a more substantial typing feel. Overall, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces between the two switches may result in a slightly different typing experience, but both switches offer similar results in terms of weight and overall feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it shorter than the KTT Wine Red linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Mini i offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, which can be advantageous for gamers seeking rapid keystrokes. On the other hand, the Wine Red switch provides a deeper key press experience with its longer travel distance, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more tactile feel when typing. Both switches offer unique benefits based on their travel distances, ultimately catering to different preferences and typing styles.
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 Wine Red comes in at $2.71.
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 neutral sound profile that strikes a balance between being audible without being overly loud, making it suitable for various environments from a home office to a traditional office setting. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red linear switch provides a deep and rich bass sound profile that can be more pronounced and satisfying for those who enjoy a more immersive typing experience. Both switches offer different auditory experiences, with the Mini i being more versatile and the Wine Red offering a more distinct and bass-heavy sound.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch provides a bouncy and easy-to-press typing experience that is mild and subtle, offering a gentle resistance for comfortable typing sessions. The keys have a lively feel with a light actuation force, making typing effortless and reducing finger fatigue during extended use. Conversely, information on the specific feel of the KTT Wine Red linear switch is not available. However, based on the descriptions provided, the Wine Red switch may offer a similar light and smooth typing experience with a focus on easy actuation and minimal resistance.
Overall, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch both offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Mini i provides a balanced and versatile sound profile along with a bouncy and easy-to-press typing experience, tailored for all-day use in various settings. On the other hand, the Wine Red switch offers a deep and rich bass sound profile that can enhance the typing experience for those who appreciate a more pronounced auditory feedback. While specific information on the feel of the Wine Red switch is not available, based on the provided descriptions, users can expect a similar light and comfortable typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound and feel, with both options offering quality performance in their respective attributes.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a gentle and subtle typing experience with a light actuation force, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch would be a great choice. These switches are ideal for office environments where quiet professionalism is key and reduce finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper and richer sound profile with a pillowy light typing feel, the KTT Wine Red linear switch would be more up your alley. The Wine Red switches offer a satisfyingly deep and rich sound profile that can make typing a more immersive experience. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on your preference for typing feel and sound profile, so consider these factors when making your decision.
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