KTT Ash Gray vs. TTC Gold Brown Pro
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the TTC Gold Brown Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Ash Gray and the TTC Gold Brown Pro both offer unique tactile experiences for typists. The Ash Gray switch provides a balance of tactile feedback that is both noticeable and gentle, offering a satisfying touch without being overwhelming. On the other hand, the Gold Brown Pro switch is designed for those who prefer a more subtle tactile bump, allowing for a quieter typing experience. While the Ash Gray switch is categorized as 'Easy-to-press' and 'Mild', the Gold Brown Pro switch is described as 'Polished', 'Thocky', 'Silky', and 'Subtle'. Each switch has its own strengths and appeal, making it important to consider your typing preferences before making a decision. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
NPI
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
18mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Ash Gray and the TTC Gold Brown Pro, we can see that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice results in a similar sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile for both switches. Additionally, due to the translucency of polycarbonate, it is ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. However, when looking at the bottom housing, the Ash Gray features a nylon bottom housing while the Gold Brown Pro also uses nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound than harder plastics.
Despite both switches having polycarbonate top housings, the differences between their bottom housings will result in variations in sound and feel. The Ash Gray's nylon bottom housing will contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile, whereas the Gold Brown Pro's nylon bottom housing will similarly provide a duller and rounder sound. When typing on these switches, the bottom housing material will have a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material will influence the sound when the key is released. Overall, the choice of housing material for both the top and bottom housing plays a crucial role in determining the overall sound and feel of the switch.
In conclusion, while both the KTT Ash Gray and TTC Gold Brown Pro have polycarbonate top housings, their differing bottom housing materials result in distinct sound profiles. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches enhances the typing experience by creating a deeper, fuller sound. This shows that material choice in switch housings can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of a mechanical keyboard switch. Whether you prefer a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile with polycarbonate or a deeper, fuller sound with nylon, both the Ash Gray and Gold Brown Pro offer unique typing experiences based on their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch, it is evident that the Ash Gray is the lighter of the two with an actuation force of 38 grams compared to the Gold Brown Pro's 45 grams. The Ash Gray also has a lower bottom out force of 53 grams, whereas the bottom out force of the Gold Brown Pro is unknown. The lighter actuation force of the Ash Gray may make it more appealing to those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the heavier actuation force of the Gold Brown Pro may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Both switches offer tactile feedback, but the difference in actuation force and bottom out force may result in a slightly different typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Gold Brown Pro has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Ash Gray switch. The Ash Gray switch falls in the shorter end of the traditional travel distance spectrum, ideal for those seeking faster response times, especially gamers. On the other hand, the Gold Brown Pro switch offers a bit more depth, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial feeling when typing or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and tactile feedback.
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 Gold Brown Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown Pro for $2.90.
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 comparing the sound profiles of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch, it is clear that the Ash Gray switch offers a more neutral sound experience, suitable for various settings and users. On the other hand, the Gold Brown Pro switch produces a thocky, low-pitched sound that is deep and satisfying, perfect for those who enjoy a richer auditory feedback while typing. Depending on personal preferences and the environment in which the keyboard will be used, users can choose between the subdued and neutral sound of the Ash Gray or the more pronounced and thocky sound of the Gold Brown Pro.
In terms of feel, the Ash Gray switch is known for its easy-to-press and mild characteristics, providing a comfortable and low-impact typing experience. On the other hand, the Gold Brown Pro switch offers a polished and silky feel, ensuring smooth key travel and reduced friction during typing. Both switches fall on the milder side of the tactile spectrum, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Whether you prefer a smoother and refined feel with the Gold Brown Pro or a more effortless and gentle typing experience with the Ash Gray, both switches provide a comfortable and enjoyable typing feel.
In conclusion, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ash Gray provides a more neutral sound profile and an easy-to-press, mild typing feel, while the Gold Brown Pro delivers a thocky, low-pitched sound and a polished, silky typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between the subtle and gentle typing experience of the Ash Gray or the rich and refined tactile feel of the Gold Brown Pro. Ultimately, both switches are designed to enhance the typing experience, providing users with a variety of options to suit their specific needs and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a tactile response that is substantial yet not overwhelming, the Ash Gray switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you appreciate a switch with a gentle tactile bump and a subtle sound profile that allows you to stay focused on your tasks without distraction, the Gold Brown Pro switch is the way to go. Ultimately, your decision may come down to whether you prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback (Ash Gray) or a more understated tactile experience (Gold Brown Pro). Consider your typing preferences and environment to choose the switch that best suits your needs.
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