KTT Phalaenopsis vs. Gateron Silent Ink Black

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that often come up for comparison are the KTT Phalaenopsis, a tactile switch, and the Gateron Silent Ink Black, a linear switch. The Phalaenopsis is lauded for its beautiful translucent appearance, and with a light actuation force of 37g, typing becomes effortless and finger fatigue is minimized even during prolonged typing sessions. Additionally, its 50g tactile force provides a satisfying and discernible tactile bump, ensuring each keystroke is a delightful experience. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black stands out for its silenced design, making it a great choice for environments that require quieter typing. This switch offers a cushy, pillow-like bottom-out feel with minimal audio feedback. Categorized as bassy, stepped, thocky, the Phalaenopsis provides a unique typing experience, while the Silent Ink Black, categorized as silky, muted, polished, offers a different sound and feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.

By the numbers

KTT Phalaenopsis Tactile

Gateron Silent Ink Black Linear

$4.73

$4.15 per 10

$8.50

$8.35 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the KTT Phalaenopsis and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches have notable differences and similarities. Both switches have a top housing material that contributes to their distinct sound profiles. The Phalaenopsis utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is especially beneficial for users who plan to utilize RGB lighting, as polycarbonate's translucency enhances the lighting effects. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black features Gateron's proprietary INK blend top housing, characterized by a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound that is considered clacky. While both materials result in an elevated pitch, the Phalaenopsis leans towards a sharper tone, while the Silent Ink Black is described as not overly sharp.

Similarly, the bottom housing materials of these switches also differ in their impact on the overall sound and feel. The Phalaenopsis incorporates a polycarbonate bottom housing that contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. As mentioned before, the clear housing of the Polycarbonate also enhances the RGB lighting experience. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black employs Gateron's INK blend bottom housing, which is also characterized by a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound. This implies that the bottom housing has a significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Thus, depending on the switch being used, users will experience the qualities of either the polycarbonate or INK blend material when pressing down on the switch.

Overall, while the top and bottom housing materials of the Phalaenopsis and Silent Ink Black switches differ, they both contribute to creating a distinct sound profile. The polycarbonate housing material of the Phalaenopsis produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound with enhanced RGB lighting aesthetics, while the proprietary INK blend material of the Silent Ink Black offers a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound that is described as clacky. However, there is a similarity in the high-pitched sound characteristic exhibited by both switches. Moreover, understanding the impact of the top and bottom housing materials allows users to appreciate the varied aspects of sound and feel when using these switches.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, there is a noticeable difference in weight. The Phalaenopsis, with an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, is lighter compared to the Silent Ink Black. The Silent Ink Black, on the other hand, has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it medium-heavy.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Phalaenopsis would be the ideal choice, as the lower actuation and bottom out forces allow for longer typing periods without fatigue. This lighter weight may appeal to individuals who frequently use their keyboard for work or engage in long gaming sessions.

However, for those who desire a more substantial and forceful keystroke, the Silent Ink Black would be a better option. With its higher actuation and bottom out forces, it provides a stronger push feel, resulting in a more satisfying typing experience. This heavier weight may be preferred by users who appreciate the feedback and responsiveness of a sturdier switch.

In conclusion, the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch differ significantly in weight. The Phalaenopsis is lighter, while the Silent Ink Black is medium-heavy. Depending on individual preferences, one can choose between a lighter typing experience with the Phalaenopsis or a more substantial feel with the Silent Ink Black.

Travel distance

The travel distance of the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch is the same, measuring 4mm in both cases. Therefore, pressing down on either switch will result in a similar tactile experience, as the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom is equal for both options. Whether using the Phalaenopsis or the Silent Ink Black, users can expect a consistent travel distance of 4mm when operating these switches.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the KTT Phalaenopsis switches are known for their bassy and thocky characteristics. With a lower frequency range, these switches offer a deep and rich sound profile during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. This can provide a satisfying auditory experience while typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches are described as muted, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches. This is particularly beneficial in environments that require quieter typing, as it helps to minimize the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the KTT Phalaenopsis switches are described as stepped. This means that they have a two-stage tactile feel, where you can feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel. These switches provide a more mild tactile experience compared to hypertactile switches, offering a balance between feedback and smoothness. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches are known for their silky and polished feel. The silky characteristic indicates that these switches offer an exceptionally smooth typing experience, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Meanwhile, the polished attribute refers to a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. This can be attributed to either the materials used or factory lubing, which helps to reduce friction and ensure smooth key travel.

Taking all the available information into account, the KTT Phalaenopsis and Gateron Silent Ink Black switches offer distinct subjective qualities. The Phalaenopsis switches provide a delightful typing experience with a satisfying and discernible tactile bump, along with a deep and rich sound profile. They also have a stepped feel that adds some pre-travel and/or post-travel to the keystrokes. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black switches are suited for environments that require quieter typing, thanks to their muted sound. They provide a pillow-like bottom-out feel and offer an exceptionally smooth typing experience with a polished finish. While the two switches offer different qualities, they both aim to enhance the typing experience. Depending on your personal preferences and requirements, you can achieve similar results with either of these switches.

Conclusion

To wrap up, if you are looking for a light and effortless typing experience, with a delightful tactile bump, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch would be a great choice. With a bottom out force of 50 grams, it minimizes finger fatigue even during prolonged typing sessions. Additionally, the Phalaenopsis offers a deep and bassy sound profile, with a thocky and satisfying sound when pressed.

On the other hand, if you require a quieter typing environment, the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch is an excellent option. With a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams, it provides a plush and pillow-like bottom-out feel, while minimizing audio feedback. Its muted sound profile ensures a softer and quieter typing experience.

In terms of feel, the Phalaenopsis has a stepped switch design, providing a mild tactility with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. In contrast, the Silent Ink Black offers a silky and polished typing experience, with an exceptionally smooth feel and reduced friction.

Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Phalaenopsis and Gateron Silent Ink Black switches depends on your preferences and specific requirements. Consider factors such as desired typing effort, sound profile, and tactile feel when making your decision. It's important to test out different switches and find the one that best suits your typing style and needs.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Phalaenopsis Tactile

$4.73

$4.15 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Silent Ink Black Linear

$8.50

$8.35 per 10

Learn more