KTT Ash Gray vs. Jerrzi Orange
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the Jerrzi Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Ash Gray and the Jerrzi Orange offer distinct experiences for users. The Ash Gray switch is a tactile option that provides a satisfying blend of tactile feedback without being overwhelming, offering a light touch and crisp actuation. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Orange switch is a linear switch known for its clacky and lively typing experience, with a lightweight feel and audible feedback with each keystroke. While the Ash Gray is categorized as 'Easy-to-press', 'Mild', and 'Neutral', the Orange is categorized as 'Feathery', 'Easy-to-press', 'Subdued', and 'Clacky'. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on your preferences and typing style. 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
37g
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
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The KTT Ash Gray and the Jerrzi Orange both use polycarbonate for their top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, the difference in color (Ash Gray vs. Orange) may affect the overall aesthetic appeal of the switches.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Ash Gray and the Orange use nylon, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is softer than polycarbonate and absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. This split in housing materials allows for a balance between impact and sound quality when typing on the switches. Despite their different color schemes, the switches will offer a similar typing experience due to the shared nylon bottom housing.
Overall, the choice between the KTT Ash Gray and the Jerrzi Orange in terms of housing materials may come down to personal preference. While both switches offer similar sound profiles due to their shared nylon bottom housing, the difference in color and translucency of the polycarbonate top housing may influence the decision. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound profile with a stiffer polycarbonate top housing or a deeper, fuller sound with a softer nylon bottom housing, both switches provide a high-quality typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Jerrzi Orange linear switch, it is evident that the Ash Gray has a slightly higher actuation force of 38 grams compared to the Orange's 37 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Ash Gray is 53 grams, while the bottom out force of the Orange is unknown. This makes the Ash Gray a bit heavier in terms of bottoming out. In terms of weight, the Ash Gray is slightly heavier overall. The actuation force of the Ash Gray being only one gram higher may not make a significant difference when typing, but the higher bottom out force could provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Both switches offer a different feel when typing, with the Ash Gray being more tactile and the Orange being linear. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Jerrzi Orange linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. In this case, the Jerrzi Orange has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Ash Gray. The difference between the two switches may not be significant, but it can have an impact on the overall typing experience. For those who prefer shorter travel distances for quicker response times, the Ash Gray may be the preferred option. On the other hand, for those who enjoy a more substantial keypress with added depth, the Jerrzi Orange might be the better choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
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 Jerrzi Orange has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange for $2.30.
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 offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various uses without being too loud or too quiet. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Orange switch provides a subdued sound with a touch of clackiness, giving a more subtle yet lively typing experience. Both switches offer distinct auditory feedback, with the Ash Gray being more versatile and the Orange providing a sharper and more vibrant sound.
In terms of feel, the Ash Gray switch offers an easy-to-press experience with gentle resistance, making typing effortless and comfortable. The mild tactile feedback enhances the typing experience without being too pronounced. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Orange switch provides a feathery and light feel, requiring minimal exertion from your fingers and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Both switches offer a responsive and low-impact typing feel, with the Ash Gray leaning towards a more moderate tactile experience and the Orange offering a smoother and lighter keypress.
Overall, the KTT Ash Gray switch excels in providing a balanced tactile feedback with a neutral sound profile, making it a versatile option for various typing needs. Meanwhile, the Jerrzi Orange switch stands out for its clacky and lively linear feel, perfect for those who prefer a more pronounced auditory and tactile experience. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer distinct qualities that will enhance your typing experience and cater to different typing styles. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches comes down to personal preference for sound and typing feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Jerrzi Orange linear switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you enjoy a tactile response that is light and crisp, with a moderate sound profile and a comfortable typing experience, the Ash Gray may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lively typing experience with a clacky sound, a feathery feel, and minimal finger fatigue during extended typing sessions, the Orange switch might suit your requirements better. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the specific qualities that align with your typing style and preferences.
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