KTT Ash Gray vs. HMX Blue Topaz
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the HMX Blue Topaz switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch to the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch, it is evident that they both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Ash Gray switch boasts a tactile response that strikes a balance between being noticeable yet not overwhelming, providing a satisfying typing experience without excessive resistance. On the other hand, the Blue Topaz switch stands out for its smooth actuation and lightweight feel, making typing effortless and enjoyable with a distinct clacky sound. While both switches are categorized as 'Easy-to-press', the Ash Gray is described as 'Mild' and 'Neutral' in comparison to the Blue Topaz, which is characterized as 'Clacky'. 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
38g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The KTT Ash Gray and the HMX Blue Topaz both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which allows for a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that will be used with RGB lighting. While the top housings are the same for both switches, the Ash Gray features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. In contrast, the Blue Topaz also has a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience with a duller and rounder sound.
Although both switches share the same top housing material, their differing bottom housings impact the overall sound and feel of typing on the switches. The Ash Gray's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. On the other hand, the Blue Topaz's nylon bottom housing also absorbs sound well, creating a similar experience with a duller and rounder sound. The qualities of each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch, affecting both the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down, as well as the sound when releasing a key.
In conclusion, while the KTT Ash Gray and HMX Blue Topaz both feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and crisp sound profile, their differing nylon bottom housings provide variations in sound experience. Both switches offer a unique typing experience, with the Ash Gray emphasizing a deeper and fuller sound, and the Blue Topaz showcasing a duller and rounder sound. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 38 grams compared to the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch with an actuation force of 40 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Ash Gray requires a heavier force of 53 grams, while the Blue Topaz only needs 48 grams. Both switches provide tactile feedback, but the Ash Gray offers a more medium-light touch, whereas the Blue Topaz provides a lighter feel. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Blue Topaz with its lower actuation force, while those who enjoy a more substantial feel may lean towards the Ash Gray with its heavier bottom out force. Overall, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces between the two switches allow for varying preferences in typing experiences.
Travel distance
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it slightly shorter than the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch which has a travel distance of 3.9 mm. While both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, the slight difference may be noticeable to some users. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the Ash Gray switch for its faster response time due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing may opt for the Blue Topaz switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The HMX Blue Topaz has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Blue Topaz for $3.49.
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 KTT Ash Gray tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile, which is suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch provides a clacky sound that is sharp, bright, and percussive, adding a unique auditory experience to each keystroke. It's important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, both the Ash Gray and Blue Topaz switches share the descriptor of being easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force not only makes typing effortless and comfortable but also helps reduce finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The mild characteristics of the Ash Gray provide a subtle tactile feedback, while the Blue Topaz's smooth actuation delivers a seamless typing experience.
In conclusion, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch cater to different preferences in sound and feel. While the Ash Gray offers a neutral sound profile and a mild tactile experience, the Blue Topaz stands out with its clacky sound signature and smooth linear feel. Depending on your personal preferences and typing style, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, experimenting with each switch in different setups will help determine which one suits you best.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch, you should consider your preference for tactile feedback and sound. If you enjoy a light touch with a crisp actuation and a tactile response that is not too overwhelming or too subtle, the Ash Gray switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a super smooth actuation with a lightweight feel and a distinctive clacky sound signature, the Blue Topaz switch might be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the typing experience you desire and the sound profile that suits your preferences best.
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