Gateron Aliaz vs. KTT Ash Gray
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the KTT Ash Gray switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the Gateron Aliaz, a tactile switch, and the KTT Ash Gray, also a tactile switch. The Gateron Aliaz is renowned for its ability to provide a quiet typing experience, making it ideal for office settings. With a medium-heavy weight and a polished feel, this switch offers a satisfying keystroke without the accompanying noise. On the other hand, the KTT Ash Gray switch boasts a tactile response that strikes a balance between being substantial yet unobtrusive. Its light touch and crisp actuation result in a pleasant tactile feedback that is neither overwhelming nor overly subtle. These switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
60g
Actuation force
38g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Aliaz and KTT Ash Gray both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. This makes them ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting, as polycarbonate's translucency allows for the light to shine through clearly. However, the KTT Ash Gray also features a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Aliaz's polycarbonate bottom housing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound profile that may be preferred for those looking for a quieter typing experience.
While the top housings of both the Gateron Aliaz and KTT Ash Gray are made of polycarbonate, providing a similar sharp, high-pitched sound profile, the bottom housings offer a clear point of distinction between the two switches. The Aliaz's polycarbonate bottom housing continues the trend of a clear and resonant sound profile, while the Ash Gray's nylon bottom housing introduces a deeper and fuller sound that may appeal to users looking for a more muted typing experience. The material of the bottom housing plays a significant role in the overall sound and feel of a switch, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed.
In conclusion, the housing material used in a switch can have a noticeable impact on the sound and feel of typing. The Gateron Aliaz and KTT Ash Gray share the use of polycarbonate for their top housings, providing a consistent sharp and crisp sound profile. However, the Ash Gray's nylon bottom housing sets it apart by offering a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Aliaz's polycarbonate bottom housing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch, it is evident that the Aliaz switch is heavier in terms of force required. The Aliaz has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 75 grams, providing a substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Ash Gray switch is lighter, with an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing or gaming sessions. Both switches offer a tactile typing experience, but the Aliaz is better suited for those who prefer a heavier actuation and bottom out force, while the Ash Gray is a good choice for those who prefer a lighter touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch, it is clear that the Ash Gray has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the 4 mm travel distance of the Aliaz. The Aliaz provides a bit more depth when pressing down on a key, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing. On the other hand, the Ash Gray offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which could be ideal for individuals looking for a faster response time, such as gamers. Both switches offer a different tactile experience based on their travel distance, but ultimately it comes down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable for the user.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
The KTT Ash Gray has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ash Gray for $2.55.
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 Aliaz switch offers a muted typing experience, perfect for quiet environments such as an office. On the other hand, the KTT Ash Gray switch provides a neutral sound profile, suitable for various environments and users. Both switches aim to minimize excessive noise while still providing a satisfying typing experience.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Aliaz switch is described as silky and polished, emphasizing an exceptionally smooth and refined typing feel. In comparison, the KTT Ash Gray switch is known for being easy-to-press and mild, offering a gentle typing experience with minimal resistance. Both switches focus on enhancing the overall typing comfort and reducing finger fatigue during extended use.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Aliaz and KTT Ash Gray switches have their own unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, they both prioritize providing a pleasant and satisfying typing experience. Whether you prefer a medium-heavy weight and muted sound like the Aliaz, or a light touch with a subtle tactile feedback and neutral sound profile like the Ash Gray, both switches deliver on their promise of a quality typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on your personal preferences and the specific typing environment you find yourself in.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch, consider the environment in which you will be using them. If you are in a quiet setting like an office and prefer a more substantial and pronounced typing feedback without the noise, the Aliaz switch with its heavier bottom out force may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch that provides a tactile response that is light, yet still noticeable, and offers a smooth and easy-to-press typing experience, the Ash Gray switch with its lighter bottom out force may be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and the type of typing experience you desire.
Mentioned in this article
