KTT Ash Gray vs. TTC Gold Red
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the TTC Gold Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, it's important to consider the tactile and auditory experience they provide. Two popular options to explore are the KTT Ash Gray, a tactile switch, and the TTC Gold Red, a linear switch. The Ash Gray switch boasts a delightful blend of tactile feedback that is substantial yet unobtrusive, making typing a breeze. It is categorized as easy-to-press, mild, and neutral. On the other hand, the Gold Red linear switches offer a buttery smooth typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance. These switches have a snappy sound profile that adds a touch of personality without being too ostentatious. Categorized as thocky, low-pitched, neutral, mild, silky, subtle, and polished, the Gold Red switches provide a polished and understated feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The KTT Ash Gray and the TTC Gold Red both feature polycarbonate top housing, which results in a similar sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiff plastic that produces a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting, providing a visually appealing effect. Therefore, users can expect similar sound and aesthetic experiences when using either of these switches.
However, where the two switches differ is in their nylon bottom housing. The Ash Gray's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softness and sound-absorbing properties. As a result, typing on switches with nylon bottom housing creates a duller and rounder sound, adding a unique auditory experience. Similarly, the Gold Red's nylon bottom housing provides the same characteristics, contributing to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing.
When considering the overall performance of these switches, it is important to note the impact of the top and bottom housings, which can differ in qualities. While the bottom housing primarily affects the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed, the top housing plays a significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, users can expect variations in sound due to the combination of different materials used in the top and bottom housings.
In conclusion, while both the KTT Ash Gray and TTC Gold Red switches share the benefits of polycarbonate top housing, their differentiation lies in the nylon bottom housing. The Ash Gray offers a rounder and duller sound, while the Gold Red provides a similar experience with its softer and sound-absorbing nylon bottom housing. When utilizing these switches, users can expect different sound profiles based on the housing materials used, enhancing their typing experience.
Weight
When comparing and contrasting the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the TTC Gold Red linear switch, there are some notable differences. In terms of weight, the Ash Gray switch is lighter overall. It has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, which falls into the medium-light category. On the other hand, the Gold Red switch is slightly heavier, with an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, which can be considered light.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience that allows for longer periods of use, the Gold Red switch would be suitable. Its lower actuation and bottom out forces provide a smoother and more effortless keystroke. This can be advantageous for tasks that require extended periods of typing, such as working on documents or engaging in long gaming sessions.
Alternatively, individuals who prefer a more substantial and tactile typing experience may lean towards the Ash Gray switch. With its higher actuation and bottom out forces, users will experience a stronger push feel when typing. This can enhance the feedback and perceived solidity of each keystroke, satisfying those who seek a more pronounced tactile response.
It is worth noting that while the actuation and bottom out forces differ between the two switches, they both fall within the lighter to medium-light range. Therefore, users can expect similar results when it comes to triggering a keystroke and bottoming out, albeit with slight variations in force required.
Ultimately, the decision between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the TTC Gold Red linear switch comes down to personal preference. Whether one prefers a lighter and more effortless typing experience or a stronger and more tactile one, both switches offer their own strengths and advantages.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the TTC Gold Red linear switch, it is clear that the Ash Gray has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gold Red boasts a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Ash Gray switch offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers or those seeking a more responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Gold Red switch provides a deeper and more pronounced feel when typing, which may be preferable for individuals who enjoy a sense of depth and solidity in their keystrokes. Both options cater to different preferences and purposes, showcasing the availability of various travel distances to suit individual needs.
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 Red has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red for $3.28.
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 described as having a neutral sound profile, which means it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate overall sound. This makes it suitable for a variety of uses, whether you're a beginner or an advanced typist, and whether you plan to use it at home or at work. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red linear switch offers a thocky sound profile, which means it produces a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. It also has a low-pitched tone that adds a bass-heavy and mellow quality to the sound. Overall, the Gold Red switch adds a modest touch of personality to your keyboard without being too ostentatious. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors, such as the type of keyboard board and keycaps you use.
In terms of feel, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch is described as being easy-to-press. It offers gentle resistance during key presses, requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The Ash Gray switch enhances the typing experience by offering a responsive and low-impact feel. Additionally, it is considered a mild switch, which means it provides a gentler typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Its qualities are approachable to most users, as they fall within a safe, middle-ground zone. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red linear switch is also described as mild, offering a more gentle typing experience. It is referred to as silky, meaning it has an exceptionally smooth typing feel. The Gold Red switch minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys, enhancing the overall smoothness of the typing experience. It also has a subtle resistance that maintains a light typing feel and a sound signature that is not resonant, making it suitable for shared spaces. Additionally, the Gold Red switch is polished, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the TTC Gold Red linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ash Gray switch provides a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, while the Gold Red switch offers a thocky sound profile with a low-pitched and bass-heavy tone. In terms of feel, the Ash Gray switch is easy-to-press and provides a gentle typing experience, while the Gold Red switch is silky smooth, subtle, and polished. Both switches offer a mild typing experience, making them approachable to most users. Overall, the Ash Gray switch combines a light touch with a crisp actuation, delivering a delightful blend of tactile feedback. The Gold Red switch provides a buttery smooth typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and adds a modest touch of personality to your keyboard. Depending on your preferences, you can choose either option to achieve similar results.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the TTC Gold Red linear switch, there are a few key factors to consider.
If you prioritize a light touch with a crisp actuation and a delightful blend of tactile feedback, then the Ash Gray switch may be the better choice for you. With a bottom out force of 53 grams, it offers a medium-light resistance that is not too overwhelming but still provides a noticeable tactile response. Additionally, the Ash Gray switch is described as easy-to-press and mild, making it effortless and comfortable to type on for extended periods without causing finger fatigue.
On the other hand, if you prefer a buttery smooth typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance, the Gold Red linear switch may be more suitable. With a bottom out force of 50 grams, it offers a slightly lighter touch than the Ash Gray switch. The Gold Red switch is also described as mild, silky, subtle, and polished, highlighting its smoothness, refined finish, and reduced friction. Furthermore, it produces a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, adding a touch of personality to your keyboard without being too ostentatious.
Ultimately, the Ash Gray switch is a great option if you want a tactile switch with a medium-light resistance and a delightful blend of tactile feedback. It provides an easy-to-press and mild typing experience without causing fatigue. On the other hand, the Gold Red switch is ideal if you prefer a linear switch with a light-medium level of resistance and an exceptionally smooth typing feel. It offers a mild, silky, subtle, and polished experience, along with a thocky and low-pitched sound profile.
Consider your preferences in terms of touch, sound, and feel, and choose the switch that aligns with your typing style and preferences. Whether you prioritize a tactile response with a light touch or a smooth and refined linear feel, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience.
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