KTT Ash Gray vs. Kailh Box Navy
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the Kailh Box Navy switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Ash Gray and the Kailh Box Navy are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique experiences for users. The Ash Gray switch is designed to provide a tactile response that is both substantial yet unobtrusive. With a light touch and crisp actuation, it delivers a delightful blend of tactile feedback without feeling overwhelming or unnoticed. Categorized as 'Easy-to-press', 'Mild', and 'Neutral', this switch appeals to those who prefer a gentle and balanced typing experience. On the other hand, the Box Navy switch is perfect for individuals who crave a heavy typing experience and appreciate the sound signature and tactility of a clicky switch. Reminiscent of the vintage buckling keyboards of the 80s, the Box Navy switches are characterized as 'Sharp', 'Resonant', 'Invigorating', 'Crunchy', and 'Stiff', offering a satisfyingly tactile and auditory experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your specific preferences and typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
90g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Housing materials
The KTT Ash Gray and the Kailh Box Navy both feature polycarbonate top housings. This material choice provides a similar sharp, higher-pitched, and crisp sound profile for both switches. The stiffness of polycarbonate lends itself to a clear and resonant sound, allowing for a satisfying typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is particularly beneficial for those who plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows for vibrant illumination. Overall, the polycarbonate top housings in both switches contribute to a consistent auditory experience.
On the other hand, the Ash Gray and the Box Navy differ in terms of their nylon bottom housings. While the Ash Gray utilizes nylon, the Box Navy also incorporates nylon as its bottom housing material. Nylon is known to produce a deeper and fuller sound, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. As a result, typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a duller and rounder sound. The bottom housing material, in particular, has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of a key press, further distinguishing the Ash Gray and the Box Navy.
It is worth noting that the qualities each housing material brings to a switch are split between the bottom and top of the switch. When pressing down on either the Ash Gray or the Box Navy, you will predominantly feel the effects of the nylon bottom housing. The bottom-out sound and overall typing feel are influenced by this component. Conversely, the top housing material, whether polycarbonate in this case, has a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, while the Ash Gray and the Box Navy share a polycarbonate top housing, the distinct nylon bottom housing sets them apart in terms of the typing experience they offer.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch, there are noticeable differences in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Ash Gray switch has a relatively lighter actuation force of 38 grams, which means it requires less force to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the Box Navy switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams, providing a stronger push feel for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Similarly, when it comes to bottom out force, the Ash Gray switch has a slightly lighter requirement of 53 grams, while the Box Navy switch demands a heavier bottom out force of 90 grams. This significant disparity in bottom out force reinforces the typing experience as more substantial and satisfying with the Box Navy switch. For individuals who prioritize a lighter typing experience, the Ash Gray switch would be a suitable choice, whereas those who prefer a heavier and more pronounced keystroke would lean towards the Box Navy switch.
Travel distance
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch have slightly different travel distances. The Ash Gray has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Box Navy has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Although the difference may seem negligible, it can make a noticeable impact on the typing or gaming experience.
In terms of comparison, both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance and are suitable for those seeking quicker response times. However, if you are a gamer looking for the fastest possible response, the Ash Gray with its slightly shorter travel distance may be more suitable for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial key press and a deeper feel, the Box Navy's slightly longer travel distance might be a better choice.
Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. Some individuals may find the shorter travel distance of the Ash Gray to be more responsive and comfortable, while others may appreciate the slightly longer travel distance of the Box Navy for a more satisfying key press. Regardless of your choice, both switches offer high-quality tactile feedback and ensure a pleasant typing or gaming 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 Kailh Box Navy comes in at $5.50 per 10 switches.
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 is best described as having a neutral sound profile. It offers a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making it suitable for most purposes. On the other hand, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch provides a resonant and immersive auditory experience. It has a higher-pitched sound profile and a clean, sharp sound. Additionally, the Box Navy switch has a crunchy feel that is often associated with clicky switches, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. However, 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 chosen.
In terms of feel, the Ash Gray switch offers an easy-to-press experience. It requires minimal force to activate, providing a gentle resistance during key presses. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Overall, the Ash Gray switch enhances the typing experience by offering a responsive and low-impact feel. On the other hand, the Box Navy switch provides a sharp and invigorating tactile experience. It has a strong and crisp tactile bump that is prominent and distinct with each keypress. This creates an immersive typing sensation that many enthusiasts enjoy. Additionally, the Box Navy switch is considered stiff, requiring a higher amount of force to actuate and/or bottom-out compared to other switches.
In conclusion, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch is known for its gentle and effortless feel, offering a delightful blend of tactile feedback without being too overwhelming. It has a neutral sound profile that suits various purposes. On the other hand, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch provides a heavy typing experience and a vintage sound signature reminiscent of buckling keyboards from the 80s. It offers a sharp and invigorating feel with a higher actuation force requirement. Both switches have their own unique qualities and can provide a satisfying typing experience based on personal preferences. However, it is important to consider other factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps to truly customize the feel and sound of the switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a lighter touch, the Ash Gray with its 53-gram bottom out force is a suitable choice. Its tactile feedback is substantial yet unobtrusive, providing a pleasant typing experience without being overwhelming. The sound profile of the Ash Gray is described as neutral, making it suitable for various environments and users.
On the other hand, if you enjoy a heavier typing experience and love the distinctive sound of clicky switches, the Box Navy with its 90-gram bottom out force is the go-to option. Its vintage buckling keyboard-inspired heaviness and clicky sound signature create an immersive and satisfying typing sensation. The sound profile of the Box Navy is resonant and crunchy, which adds to the auditory experience of using this switch.
When it comes to feel, the Ash Gray offers an easy-to-press experience with gentle resistance, making typing effortless and reducing finger fatigue. It also has a mild feel that falls within a safe and approachable middle-ground zone. In contrast, the Box Navy provides a sharp and invigorating tactile feedback with each keypress. Its stiff nature requires more force to actuate and bottom out, which may be preferred by those seeking a more pronounced tactile experience.
Ultimately, the decision between the Ash Gray and the Box Navy depends on your personal preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. Consider whether you prioritize a lighter touch, a neutral sound profile, and an easy-to-press feel, or if you prefer a heavier typing experience, resonant and crunchy sound, and a sharp and invigorating tactile feedback. By choosing the switch that aligns with your preferences, you can enhance your typing experience and find the perfect fit for your mechanical keyboard.
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