Gateron Ink Box Black vs. KTT Kang White

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, there are a multitude of options available, each with its own unique characteristics and advantages. Two switches that stand out in the linear switch category are the Gateron Ink Box Black and the KTT Kang White. The Ink Box Black is highly regarded for its smooth and creamy feel, providing a typing experience akin to shaking a spray paint can. Its clacky and high-pitched sound signature adds a touch of excitement to every keystroke. On the other hand, the Kang White is celebrated for its exquisite representation of a poppy linear switch, offering a dazzling typing sound. What sets it apart is the self-lubricating material used, which provides an unparalleled smoothness while typing. With its low-pitched and neutral sound profile, it offers a more subdued and balanced experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Ink Box Black Linear

KTT Kang White Linear

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

$1.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Black and the KTT Kang White switches differ in terms of the top and bottom housing. The Ink Box Black features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which produces a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound profile that is often described as clacky. In contrast, the Kang White utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which allows for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the polycarbonate top housing is translucent, making it ideal for switches that require RGB lighting.

When it comes to the bottom housing, both switches have distinct characteristics. The Ink Box Black uses the same proprietary INK blend as its bottom housing, resulting in a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. This aligns with the sound produced by its top housing. On the other hand, the Kang White employs a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This leads to a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings.

It is important to note that the impact of each housing material varies depending on whether it is the top or bottom housing. The bottom housing primarily influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. In contrast, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when letting go of a key. Therefore, with the Gateron Ink Box Black, the characteristics of the INK blend material will be felt and heard throughout the switch, while the KTT Kang White divides its qualities between the top and bottom housings, resulting in distinct sound profiles for pressing and releasing keys.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the KTT Kang White linear switch, there are some notable differences. The Ink Box Black has a higher actuation force of 60 grams, requiring a slightly stronger push to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the Kang White has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it more responsive and requiring less effort to activate.

As for the bottom out force, the Ink Box Black has a heavier force of 70 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Kang White has a lower bottom out force of 58 grams, which is slightly lighter and may be preferred by individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience.

Considering the weight aspect, the Ink Box Black can be considered heavier in terms of actuation and bottom out force compared to the Kang White. For those who prefer a lighter switch, the Kang White would be a suitable choice, as it allows for longer periods of comfortable typing and is ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. However, both switches fall within the medium range in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, so similar results in terms of typing experience can still be achieved, although with slight variations in feel and force required.

Travel distance

The travel distance of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch is 3.6 mm, while the travel distance of the KTT Kang White linear switch is 4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Kang White switch is longer than the Ink Box Black switch. A travel distance of 4.0 mm is considered the most traditional, while a distance of 3.0 mm is the most shallow. However, shorter travel distances have become popular, especially among gamers who value faster response times. If responsiveness is a priority for you, the Ink Box Black with its shorter travel distance may be more suitable. On the other hand, some individuals find short travel distances to be too abrupt and prefer a deeper pressing sensation. In this case, the Kang White switch with its longer travel distance might be the preferred choice.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron Ink Box Black and the KTT Kang White switches offer different experiences. The Ink Box Black is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile. Pressing on these switches produces a sharp and percussive sound that can be described as crisp and bright. On the other hand, the Kang White switch has a low-pitched and neutral sound profile. It offers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, making it suitable for those who prefer a softer and more moderate sound. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen, so individual results may vary.

When it comes to feel, the Gateron Ink Box Black stands out for its silky and polished typing experience. These switches are exceptionally smooth and minimize resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The smoothness of their typing feel can be attributed to their silkiness and refined finish. The Ink Box Black switches enhance the overall smoothness of typing and provide a sleek experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, there is no specific information available on the feel of the KTT Kang White switch.

In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Box Black and KTT Kang White switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ink Box Black provides a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, while offering a silky and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Kang White switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, but information regarding its feel is unknown. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches may provide satisfying results. However, it's important to consider other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, as they can also impact the overall experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy switch with a sharp and snappy sound, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch is an excellent choice. These switches offer a smooth and creamy typing experience, with a bottom out force of 70 grams. The clacky and high-pitched sound profile adds a crisp and bright sound to your typing. Additionally, the Ink Box Black switch has a silky and polished feel, minimizing resistance and providing a refined typing experience.

On the other hand, if you prefer a medium switch with a more bass-heavy and mellow sound, the KTT Kang White linear switch is a great option. With a bottom out force of 58 grams, these switches offer an unparalleled smoothness due to their self-lubricating material. The typing sound is described as dazzling, and the low-pitched and neutral sound profile adds a moderate and versatile tone to your typing. Although there is no specific description of the feel, it can be assumed that the Kang White switch provides a smooth and comfortable typing experience.

Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Ink Box Black and KTT Kang White linear switches depends on your personal preferences. Consider whether you prefer a medium-heavy or medium bottom out force, as well as the sound and feel profile that appeals to you the most. Both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience, so choosing the right one ultimately comes down to your individual preferences and needs.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Ink Box Black Linear

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

Learn more

KTT Kang White Linear

$1.99 per 10

Learn more