KTT Ash Gray vs. HMX Cheese
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the HMX Cheese switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the KTT Ash Gray, a tactile switch, and the HMX Cheese, a linear switch. The Ash Gray is known for its tactile response that strikes a balance between being substantial yet unobtrusive, offering a light touch with a crisp actuation. In contrast, the HMX Cheese is praised for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, with ultra-light switches that produce a satisfying clacky sound. While the Ash Gray is categorized as 'Easy-to-press', 'Mild', and 'Neutral', the Cheese falls into its own category. Both switches have their unique advantages, offering different typing experiences for users to choose from. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
46g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Ash Gray and the HMX Cheese, we can see that they both feature a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. This means that when typing on either switch, users can expect a more rounded and duller sound, as opposed to a sharper and crisper sound produced by stiffer plastics like polycarbonate. However, the Ash Gray's top housing is made of polycarbonate, creating a higher-pitched and clearer sound profile, while the Cheese utilizes a nylon top housing for a deeper sound. This difference in top housing material will impact the sound when releasing a key on the Ash Gray compared to the Cheese.
While the Ash Gray and the Cheese both share a nylon bottom housing, their top housing materials differ, resulting in varying sound profiles. The Ash Gray's use of polycarbonate for its top housing leads to a sharper and crisper sound, making it ideal for those who prefer a more distinct typing experience. In contrast, the Cheese's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, catering to users who enjoy a softer typing sound. Despite their different top housing materials, both switches' nylon bottom housings contribute to a similar overall sound profile, with a more rounded and duller tone. This demonstrates how different housing materials can impact the typing experience and sound output of mechanical keyboards.
When considering the impact of housing materials on mechanical switches, it is important to note that the qualities brought by each material will be split between the top and bottom housing. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the Ash Gray, and the use of nylon for both top and bottom housing in the Cheese, results in a unique sound profile for each switch. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for sound and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the HMX Cheese linear switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a key role in determining the typing experience. The Ash Gray has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams compared to the Cheese's 43 grams, making it easier to trigger a keystroke. However, the Ash Gray requires a heavier bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Cheese only needs 46 grams, resulting in a more substantial typing feel with the Ash Gray. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, the Cheese switch would be the better choice. On the other hand, if a stronger push feel is desired for a more impactful typing experience, the Ash Gray would be the ideal option. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the HMX Cheese linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing and contrasting their travel distances, it is worth noting that both switches provide a consistent tactile feel and actuation force throughout their travel distance. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of keypress feedback and responsiveness. Overall, whether you choose the Ash Gray or the Cheese switch, you can expect a consistent and satisfying typing experience with a travel distance of 3.5 mm.
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 Cheese has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cheese for $3.99.
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 that is suitable for most purposes, making it a versatile option for both beginners and advanced users. On the other hand, the HMX Cheese switch is known for its satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, which is unique due to its ultra-light weight. Depending on your preference, the Ash Gray switch provides a moderate sound, while the Cheese switch delivers a more distinctive and lighter sound experience.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the KTT Ash Gray switch is easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This results in a comfortable and effortless typing experience, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Additionally, the mild tactile feedback provided by the Ash Gray switch falls within a safe middle-ground zone, making it approachable to most users. Unfortunately, information regarding the feel of the HMX Cheese switch is not available at this time.
In conclusion, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the HMX Cheese linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ash Gray switch provides a neutral sound profile and an easy-to-press, mild tactile feel, making it a versatile option for various typing preferences. On the other hand, the HMX Cheese switch stands out for its ultra-lightweight and distinctive sound signature, offering a different typing experience compared to the Ash Gray switch. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, you can achieve similar results with both switches by selecting the one that best suits your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the HMX Cheese linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a tactile switch that offers a subtle yet noticeable feedback, the Ash Gray would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smooth linear switch that provides a satisfying clacky sound signature, the Cheese switch might be more suitable for your typing needs. Consider your typing preferences, whether you prefer a tactile or linear switch, and the bottom out force that feels most comfortable to you when making your decision. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style.
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