KTT Ash Gray vs. Gateron CJ
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the Gateron CJ switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two options stand out: the KTT Ash Gray and the Gateron CJ. The Ash Gray switch is a tactile switch that offers a delightful blend of tactile feedback without being overwhelming, providing a light touch and crisp actuation. On the other hand, the CJ is a linear switch that presents a unique and enjoyable typing experience with higher-pitched clacks and an incredibly smooth push feel. The Ash Gray switch falls into the categories of being easy-to-press, mild, and neutral, while the CJ switch is characterized as chirpy, neutral, mild, low-pitched, and thocky. These general descriptions provide some guidance, but to truly determine the best switch for you, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Ash Gray and the Gateron CJ switches have notable differences and similarities. First, in terms of the top housing, the Ash Gray utilizes a polycarbonate material, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is especially advantageous if you plan to use RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the CJ switch features Gateron's proprietary INK blend top housing, characterized by a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile with a satisfying "clacky" feel. While both provide distinct sound profiles, the Ash Gray's polycarbonate offers a more resonant sound, while the CJ's INK blend is known for a slightly less sharpness.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Ash Gray incorporates a nylon material, known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the CJ switch features a POM (polyoxymethylene) bottom housing, which creates a unique and pleasing sound profile on the deeper side, which is relatively more muted. Thus, while the Ash Gray gives a fuller sound due to nylon's absorption properties, the CJ switch offers a quieter and deeper sound with its POM bottom housing.
When considering the impact of these housing materials on the overall switch experience, it is important to note that the bottom housing has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel. Since the bottom housing materials differ between the Ash Gray and CJ switches, the qualities of each housing material will be split between the bottom and top of the switch. On the other hand, the top housing has more influence on the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, while the Ash Gray and CJ switches differ in terms of housing materials, both switches offer unique and enjoyable characteristics that can enhance the typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Gateron CJ linear switch, there are some notable differences. The Ash Gray tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams compared to the CJ's 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Ash Gray is also lighter with 53 grams, while the CJ requires a slightly heavier 60 grams to fully bottom out.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch would be a suitable choice. With its lower actuation and bottom out forces, it allows for smoother and faster keystrokes, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. On the other hand, the Gateron CJ linear switch provides a more substantial typing feel due to its higher actuation and bottom out forces. This can be appealing for individuals who appreciate a stronger push and desire a more tactile feedback while typing.
However, it is worth mentioning that both switches fall within the medium range of force requirements, ensuring that neither is excessively heavy or too light. Thus, regardless of the specific choice, users can expect a balanced and comfortable typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Gateron CJ linear switch will depend on personal preferences and the desired typing experience one seeks.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch is 3.5 mm, while the Gateron CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Ash Gray has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the CJ. A travel distance of 4.0 mm is considered to be the most traditional, while 3.0 mm is the most shallow. However, shorter travel distances have become popular, especially among gamers who value faster response times. For those who prioritize responsiveness, the Ash Gray with its 3.5 mm travel distance would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, some people may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt. For those who prefer a deeper keystroke, the Gateron CJ with its 4 mm travel distance would be a better option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on whether you prioritize a shorter or longer 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 Gateron CJ has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CJ for $5.35.
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 switch can be described as neutral, meaning it has a moderate sound profile that is suitable for various purposes and users. It provides a tactile feedback that is substantial but not overwhelming, resulting in a pleasant typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron CJ switch offers a unique acoustic signature with a chirpy sound. This adds a distinctive element to the typing experience and sets it apart from other switches. Additionally, the CJ switch is also described as having a low-pitched sound, which gives it a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. It is important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the KTT Ash Gray switch is known to be easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force contributes to effortless and comfortable typing, preventing finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions. The overall typing feel is low-impact and responsive. Similarly, the Gateron CJ switch is described as mild, providing a gentle typing experience similar to the KTT Ash Gray switch. Both switches fall within a safe middle-ground zone, making their sound and feel approachable to most users.
Taking all the available information into account, the KTT Ash Gray and Gateron CJ switches offer different subjective qualities. The Ash Gray switch combines a light touch with crisp actuation, delivering a tactile response that is substantial yet unobtrusive. Its sound profile is neutral, and its feel is easy-to-press. On the other hand, the CJ switch presents a unique and enjoyable representation of a linear switch, featuring a chirpy sound and a smooth push feel. Its sound profile includes chirpy and low-pitched characteristics, while its feel is described as mild. While they have their distinct qualities, both switches provide a pleasant typing experience suited for various purposes and user preferences. If you are looking for a similar typing experience, either switch can offer similar results depending on your personal preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium-light bottom out force, the KTT Ash Gray switch is a great choice. It offers a delightful blend of tactile feedback, providing a substantial yet unobtrusive touch and crisp actuation. The Ash Gray is also known for its easy-to-press feel, offering a low-impact and comfortable typing experience. Additionally, the switch has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced users in various settings, whether at home or work.
On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a medium bottom out force, the Gateron CJ switch would be a perfect option. The CJ switch presents a unique and enjoyable experience compared to other linear switches. It offers higher-pitched clacks and an incredibly smooth push feel. The CJ switch is also described as having a mild feel, which provides a gentle typing experience without any pronounced characteristics. In terms of sound, the CJ switch has a chirpy acoustic signature, setting it apart from other switches. It also has options for neutral, low-pitched, and thocky sounds, allowing you to tailor your keyboard's sound to your preferences.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Gateron CJ linear switch depends on your personal preferences. If you value tactile feedback and an easy-to-press feel, the Ash Gray would be a great fit. However, if you enjoy a unique linear switch experience with smoothness and a range of sound options, the CJ would be an excellent choice. Consider your typing style, desired sound profile, and overall typing experience when making your decision.
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