KTT Orange vs. Gateron Silent Ink Black

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the KTT Orange and the Gateron Silent Ink Black. The KTT Orange switch is a linear switch that stands out for its bouncy and frictionless typing experience. With its polycarbonate milky top housing, long pole POM stem, and vibrant orange nylon bottom housing, this switch provides a slick and smooth key travel, accompanied by a pleasing low-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black is also a linear switch but offers a different experience. Known for its silent operation, this switch is perfect for environments that require quieter typing. The Silent Ink Black switch delivers a cushion-like bottom-out feel with minimal audio feedback. These switches can be categorized as silky, muted, and polished. Both switches have their distinctive attributes that make them appealing to different individuals. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

KTT Orange Linear

Gateron Silent Ink Black Linear

$5.55

$4.15 per 10

$8.50

$8.35 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the KTT Orange and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Orange switch utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which allows for a more clear and resonant sound profile. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that feature RGB lighting. In contrast, the Silent Ink Black switch features a proprietary INK blend top housing that produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound. Although similar in pitch, the Gateron switch's sound profile is described as less sharp compared to the Orange switch.

In terms of the bottom housings, both the KTT Orange and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches make use of polycarbonate materials. This choice results in a similar sharp, higher-pitched, and crisp sound profile for both switches. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound with a satisfying thin and clacky quality. Consequently, regardless of the brand, the bottom-out sound and feel of these switches would exhibit similar characteristics.

Interestingly, while the bottom housing primarily affects the bottom-out sound and feel, the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. The polycarbonate top housing of the KTT Orange switch would contribute to a distinct sound profile upon key release, showcasing the sharp, higher-pitched, and crisp qualities of the material. Likewise, the proprietary INK blend top housing of the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch would result in a similarly characterized sound upon key release.

In summary, the main difference between the KTT Orange and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches lies in their top housing materials. The polycarbonate top housing of the Orange switch produces a sharper and crisper sound, while the INK blend top housing of the Silent Ink Black switch offers a pointed and relatively high-pitched clacky sound. However, both switches share a polycarbonate bottom housing, resulting in a similar bottom-out sound and feel. Additionally, the top housing of each switch significantly impacts the sound when releasing a key, providing distinct but comparable sound profiles.

Weight

When comparing the KTT Orange linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, it is evident that there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Orange switch has an actuation force of 46 grams, while the Silent Ink Black has an actuation force of 60 grams, making it slightly heavier. Similarly, the Orange switch has a bottom out force of 53 grams, whereas the Silent Ink Black has a bottom out force of 70 grams, indicating a significant increase in force required.

For those individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Orange switch would be the more suitable option, as its actuation and bottom out forces are comparatively lower. This lighter weight allows for extended typing sessions, making it ideal for work or gaming purposes. However, if one prefers a stronger push feel and desires a more substantial typing experience, the Silent Ink Black switch would be the preferable choice. Its heavier actuation and bottom out forces provide a satisfying tactile feedback that some users find more gratifying.

It is important to note that while the two switches differ in terms of force requirements, they both offer similar outcomes regarding actuation and bottoming out. Using either switch will result in a responsive keystroke, although the Silent Ink Black will require a slightly stronger push. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches boils down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Orange linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, it is evident that the Silent Ink Black has a longer travel distance with 4 mm, while the Orange has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This distinction in travel distance can have implications for keyboard users depending on their preferences. Generally, a 4 mm travel distance is considered more traditional, offering a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the 3.5 mm travel distance of the Orange switch caters to those who prefer a shorter travel distance, often favored by gamers seeking faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference - opting for the shorter travel distance for heightened responsiveness or the longer travel distance for a more substantial and satisfying keystroke experience. In any case, both switches offer their unique advantages, ensuring that users will receive similar results depending on their preferred travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the KTT Orange switch offers a low-pitched profile with a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. This provides a pleasant and soothing typing experience, especially for those who prefer a quieter keyboard. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch produces a muted sound. With minimal audio feedback, this switch ensures a softer and quieter typing experience, perfect for environments where noise reduction is essential. It is important to note that the sound of the switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

When it comes to feel, the KTT Orange switch is known for providing a bouncy and frictionless typing experience. With its 22mm long spring, these switches offer a spring-like feedback sensation, giving the keys a lively feel and rebound when pressed. The frictionless nature of the switch ensures an effortless and smooth typing experience, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction when pressing the keys. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch offers a silky and polished feel. These switches are designed to provide an exceptionally smooth typing experience, enhancing the overall smoothness of the keys. The polished finish and factory lubing reduce friction and ensure a sleek typing experience.

In conclusion, both the KTT Orange and Gateron Silent Ink Black switches offer unique and desirable qualities. If you prefer a low-pitched sound profile with a bouncy and frictionless feel, the KTT Orange switch would be an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you prioritize a muted sound and a silky, polished feel, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch would be ideal. While their subjective qualities differ, it is important to note that individual preferences may vary. However, based on the available information, both switches provide smooth and enjoyable typing experiences.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a low-pitched sound profile, the KTT Orange linear switch would be a great choice. These switches offer a bouncy and frictionless typing experience, thanks to their 22mm long spring and excellent factory-lubing. They provide a slick and effortless key travel, minimizing friction and maximizing smoothness. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a muted sound, the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch would be more suitable. These switches offer a cushion-like bottom-out feel with minimal audio feedback. They provide an exceptionally smooth typing experience, thanks to their silky and polished finish. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches depends on your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Orange Linear

$5.55

$4.15 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Silent Ink Black Linear

$8.50

$8.35 per 10

Learn more