KTT Ash Gray vs. TTC Brother
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the TTC Brother switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Ash Gray and the TTC Brother are two exceptional mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique characteristics and experiences. The Ash Gray is renowned for its tactile response that strikes a perfect balance between being noticeable yet gentle, providing a satisfying tactile feedback without being intrusive. On the other hand, the TTC Brother clicky switch is celebrated for its lightweight actuation and crunchy sound signature that is sure to please enthusiasts of clicky switches. While the Ash Gray is categorized as 'Easy-to-press', 'Mild', 'Neutral', the Brother is categorized as 'Crunchy', 'Easy-to-press', 'Stepped'. Choosing between these switches ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial 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
17.5mm spring
Housing materials
The KTT Ash Gray and TTC Brother both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, both switches offer a clear and resonant sound when typing. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, as the light can shine through the housing to create visually appealing effects. With similar qualities in their top housings, users can expect comparable sound profiles and aesthetics from both the Ash Gray and Brother switches.
In terms of bottom housings, both the Ash Gray and Brother switches utilize nylon, a material known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use this material. By incorporating nylon bottom housings, the Ash Gray and Brother switches offer users a tactile typing experience with a unique sound profile that sets them apart from switches utilizing harder plastics for the housing material.
While the top and bottom housings of the KTT Ash Gray and TTC Brother switches differ in material, the qualities each housing brings to the switch are distinct yet complementary. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing a key, providing a tactile experience for users. On the other hand, the top housing has a more significant impact on the sound when releasing a key, contributing to the overall typing experience. By combining polycarbonate and nylon in their housings, both the Ash Gray and the Brother switches offer users a well-rounded typing experience with a unique sound profile and tactile feedback.
Weight
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 38 grams compared to the TTC Brother clicky switch, which has an actuation force of 37 grams. However, the Ash Gray also has a higher bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Brother's bottom out force is unknown. This makes the Ash Gray switch slightly heavier overall than the Brother switch. The difference in actuation force is minimal, so users would likely get similar results in terms of typing experience. Ultimately, those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Brother switch, while those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may gravitate towards the Ash Gray switch. Both switches have their merits depending on individual preferences for typing or gaming activities.
Travel distance
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the TTC Brother clicky switch both have the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key for either switch, users will experience an equal amount of travel distance. Both switches will provide a consistent typing experience in terms of how far the key travels when pressed. Whether you choose the Ash Gray tactile switch or the Brother clicky switch, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance.
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 TTC Brother has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Brother for $3.30.
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
In terms of sound, the KTT Ash Gray switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it a versatile option suitable for various uses without being too intrusive. On the other hand, the TTC Brother clicky switch provides a satisfyingly crunchy sound reminiscent of stepping on crisp autumn leaves, catering to enthusiasts who appreciate a distinct click with each keystroke. Keep in mind that the overall sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, both the Ash Gray and Brother switches are described as easy-to-press, offering a gentle resistance during key presses that minimizes finger fatigue during long typing sessions. The Ash Gray switch provides a mild typing experience, striking a balance between responsiveness and comfort, making it approachable to a wide range of users. In contrast, the Brother switch is noted for its stepped feel, which offers a more nuanced tactile experience with discernible pre-travel and post-travel stages during keystrokes.
In conclusion, while the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the TTC Brother clicky switch offer different sound and feel profiles, they both excel in providing a pleasant typing experience with their unique characteristics. Whether you prefer a neutral sound with a subtle tactile feedback like the Ash Gray, or a crunchy sound with a stepped feel like the Brother, both switches are designed to enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on your personal preference for sound, feel, and overall typing comfort.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the TTC Brother clicky switch, you should consider your preference for actuation force, tactile feedback, sound profile, and typing experience. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force with a subtle yet distinct tactile response, the Ash Gray switch would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a light actuation force and a satisfyingly crunchy sound signature, along with a more stepped tactile feel, the Brother switch may be more to your liking. Both switches offer their own unique features and qualities, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. Choose the switch that best aligns with your typing preferences and needs.
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