KTT Ash Gray vs. TTC Gold Red Pro
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the TTC Gold Red Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Ash Gray and TTC Gold Red Pro stand out for their unique characteristics. The Ash Gray is a tactile switch that provides a balanced tactile response without feeling too overwhelming, perfect for those who prefer a light touch with a crisp actuation. In contrast, the Gold Red Pro is a linear switch known for its versatility, offering a smooth typing experience with a neutral sound signature suitable for various environments. While the Ash Gray is easy-to-press and mild, the Gold Red Pro is polished, low-pitched, and subtle. Both switches have their strengths and appeal to different preferences, 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
18.5mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Ash Gray and the TTC Gold Red Pro, both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material choice allows for a more clear and resonant sound due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. Visually, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting capabilities. On the other hand, the switches differ in their bottom housing materials, with the Ash Gray utilizing nylon for a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Gold Red Pro also features a nylon bottom housing for a similar effect.
The nylon bottom housing of both the Ash Gray and Gold Red Pro contributes to a deeper sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. With this similarity in bottom housing material, the overall sound experience of both switches will likely be comparable despite any differences in the top housing material. The use of different housing materials for the top and bottom of the switches allows for a balanced distribution of qualities, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, while the KTT Ash Gray and TTC Gold Red Pro differ in their top housing materials, with both featuring polycarbonate for a sharper sound profile, they share the same nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound experience. This combination of materials results in a well-rounded sound profile that balances clarity and depth, providing users with a satisfying typing experience. Whether choosing the Ash Gray or Gold Red Pro, users can expect a unique sound profile that combines the best qualities of both polycarbonate and nylon housing materials.
Weight
In comparing the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch, it is evident that the Ash Gray is lighter with an actuation force of 38 grams compared to the Gold Red Pro with an actuation force of 43 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Ash Gray requires 53 grams while the Gold Red Pro's bottom out force is unknown. The Ash Gray provides a medium-light typing experience due to its lighter actuation force, making it suitable for those who prefer longer typing sessions. On the other hand, the Gold Red Pro offers a slightly heavier actuation force, which may appeal to individuals looking for a more substantial typing feel. Despite the differences in actuation force, both switches provide unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences in terms of force required for keystrokes and bottoming out. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch, it is clear that the Ash Gray has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Gold Red Pro's 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular among gamers for their faster response times. The Ash Gray may offer a slight advantage in terms of quicker actuation due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, the Gold Red Pro's slightly longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for those who prefer a deeper key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing experience.
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 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 Red 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 it comes to sound, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch is described as thocky and low-pitched, providing a deep and satisfying sound when pressed. Both switches offer different auditory experiences, with the Ash Gray being more versatile and the Gold Red Pro having a distinct deep tone.
In terms of feel, the Ash Gray tactile switch is easy-to-press and mild, providing a gentle and responsive typing experience ideal for extended use. Conversely, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch is polished, silky, and mild, offering smooth key travel and minimal resistance during typing. Both switches aim to enhance typing comfort, with the Ash Gray focusing on low-impact key presses and the Gold Red Pro offering a refined and sleek typing feel.
Taking into consideration both sound and feel qualities, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch each have their unique strengths. The Ash Gray excels in providing a balanced tactile feedback and a neutral sound, while the Gold Red Pro stands out for its deep thocky sound and smooth typing experience. Depending on personal preferences and intended usage, both switches offer distinct advantages that cater to a variety of users and environments. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on whether you prioritize tactile feedback and versatility or smoothness and deep sound tones in your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when choosing between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prioritize a tactile response with a light touch and a crisp actuation, the Ash Gray switch is the way to go. Its medium-light bottom out force and gentle tactile feedback make it a great choice for comfortable typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a versatile linear switch with an easy-to-press feel and a neutral sound profile, the Gold Red Pro is a solid option. Its adaptability and seamless typing experience cater to a wide range of preferences and environments. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you value tactile feedback or a smooth linear typing experience. Both switches offer unique advantages, so choose the one that best suits your typing style and preferences.
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