KTT Ash Gray vs. Durock Ice King Tactile
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the Durock Ice King Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Ash Gray and Durock Ice King Tactile are two mechanical keyboard switches that excel in providing a satisfying tactile typing experience. The Ash Gray switch is praised for its light touch and crisp actuation, offering a tactile response that is both present and comfortable. On the other hand, the Ice King Tactile showcases a creamy smoothness with a pronounced tactile bump, creating a unique and satisfying typing experience. While the Ash Gray is categorized as 'Easy-to-press', 'Mild', and 'Neutral', the Ice King Tactile is labeled as 'Silky', 'Frictionless', 'Subdued', 'Stepped', and 'Polished'. Each switch has its own set of qualities that make it appealing to different types of typists. 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
58g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
68g
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
Nylon
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
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Housing materials
The KTT Ash Gray features a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffer nature of the material. In contrast, the Durock Ice King Tactile has a nylon top housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. While the Ash Gray's nylon bottom housing mirrors the characteristics of the Ice King Tactile's nylon bottom housing, both contributing to a deeper and fuller sound when typing.
While both the KTT Ash Gray and the Durock Ice King Tactile have nylon bottom housings that result in a deeper and fuller sound profile, their differences lie in the top housings. The Ash Gray's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound profile, ideal for those seeking a more distinctive typing experience. On the other hand, the Ice King Tactile's nylon top housing provides a rounder and duller sound, catering to individuals who prefer a softer typing experience. Despite these differences, both switches share the commonality of utilizing nylon in their bottom housings for a consistent sound quality.
In terms of functionality, the qualities of the top and bottom housings of the KTT Ash Gray and the Durock Ice King Tactile are divided when typing on the switches. The bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key. This split in housing materials ensures a well-rounded typing experience, combining the best qualities of both polycarbonate and nylon to deliver a dynamic and satisfying sound profile for users of both switches. Ultimately, whether choosing the Ash Gray or Ice King Tactile, users can expect a unique and enjoyable typing experience tailored to their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch, we can see a clear difference in weight. The Ash Gray has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 53 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Ice King Tactile has a heavier actuation force of 58 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 68 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who enjoy a stronger push feel. The Ash Gray offers a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming, while the Ice King Tactile provides a heavier and more tactile typing experience. Both switches have different weight preferences, catering to a variety of typing preferences.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key using either of these switches, the distance traveled from the top to the bottom will be consistent. As a result, users can expect similar tactile feedback and overall typing experience from both switches. Since the travel distances are equal, there is no significant difference in this aspect between the two switches.
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 Durock Ice King Tactile has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ice King Tactile for $4.20.
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, making it suitable for a variety of settings and users. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch is described as having a subdued sound, providing a quieter typing experience compared to many other switches. The choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the environment in which the keyboard will be used.
Moving on to the feel, the KTT Ash Gray switch provides an easy-to-press experience with gentle resistance, making typing effortless and comfortable. It also offers a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users. In contrast, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch offers a silky and frictionless typing experience, providing a smooth and effortless key press. With its stepped and polished characteristics, the Ice King Tactile switch offers a refined typing feel that minimizes friction and enhances overall smoothness.
Overall, the KTT Ash Gray switch excels in providing a tactile response that is both substantial and unobtrusive, offering a blend of tactile feedback that is not too overwhelming. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch elevates tactile typing to an art form, combining creamy smoothness with a pronounced tactile bump for a uniquely satisfying typing experience. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics, and the choice between the two will ultimately depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch, consider your preference for actuation force, tactile feedback, sound, and typing feel. If you prefer a lighter actuation force and a subtle yet noticeable tactile feedback, along with a neutral sound profile and easy-to-press feel, the KTT Ash Gray switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier actuation force and a more pronounced tactile bump, along with a subdued sound profile and silky, frictionless feel, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch could be the perfect fit for your typing style. Ultimately, both switches offer unique features that cater to different typing preferences, so it's important to consider your own preferences and typing needs when making a decision.
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