KTT Ash Gray vs. Gateron Jupiter Brown
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the Gateron Jupiter Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch, it becomes evident that they both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Ash Gray switch is known for its light touch and crisp actuation, providing a subtle tactile response that is neither overwhelming nor unnoticed. On the other hand, the Jupiter Brown switch features a more classic keystroke feel with a medium-heavy weight, along with precise molds and enhanced backlight effects for both performance and aesthetics. While the Ash Gray switch is categorized as 'Easy-to-press', 'Mild', 'Neutral', the Jupiter Brown switch falls under 'Mild', 'Polished', 'Stepped'. These distinctions make each switch suitable for different typing styles and preferences. However, let's delve deeper beyond these general descriptions to help you make an informed decision on the best switch for your mechanical keyboard.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Spring steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Ash Gray and the Gateron Jupiter Brown, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the aesthetics of the switches. Therefore, users can expect similar sound and lighting effects from both the Ash Gray and Jupiter Brown switches due to their shared top housing material.
However, a key point of differentiation between the two switches lies in their bottom housing materials. The Ash Gray features a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Jupiter Brown also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar deep and full sound experience for users. Despite both switches sharing the same bottom housing material, each switch maintains its unique characteristics and qualities that contribute to the overall typing experience.
When considering the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall sound and feel of the switches, it is important to note that the qualities of each material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, users of both the KTT Ash Gray and the Gateron Jupiter Brown can expect a combination of sharp, crisp sounds from the polycarbonate top housing and deep, fuller tones from the nylon bottom housing, offering a dynamic and pleasing typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch to the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch, there is a noticeable difference in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Ash Gray has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a more medium-light option. In contrast, the Jupiter Brown has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category. The lighter actuation force of the Ash Gray may appeal to those who prefer a gentler typing experience for extended periods, such as during work or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the heavier forces of the Jupiter Brown may provide a more substantial and satisfying typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5mm, which is shorter than the 4mm travel distance of the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch. The Ash Gray's shorter travel distance may appeal to those looking for quicker response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Jupiter Brown may provide a more satisfying tactile feel for those who prefer a deeper key press. Both switches offer different advantages based on the preference of the user, with the Ash Gray providing a shorter distance for a faster response and the Jupiter Brown offering a longer distance for a more substantial keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preferences 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 Gateron Jupiter Brown comes in at $2.80 per 10 switches.
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, both the KTT Ash Gray and Gateron Jupiter Brown switches are described as having a neutral profile, which means they produce a moderate sound that is suitable for various settings. Keep in mind that the actual sound produced by these switches can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Ash Gray is known for being easy-to-press and offering a mild typing experience, making it ideal for reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. The Jupiter Brown, on the other hand, also provides a mild typing experience with a polished and stepped feel, ensuring smooth key travel and a more refined keystroke sensation. In conclusion, both switches offer a pleasant tactile feedback that strikes a balance between subtlety and responsiveness, making them suitable choices for users seeking a tactile typing experience without being too loud or strenuous on the fingers. Ultimately, whether you choose the Ash Gray or Jupiter Brown, you can expect a similar level of tactile satisfaction in your typing endeavors.
Conclusion
Therefore, when deciding between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch, consider the bottom out force that suits your typing style. If you prefer a lighter touch with a medium-light bottom out force, the Ash Gray may be the better choice for you. Its tactile response is described as substantial yet unobtrusive, providing a comfortable typing experience without being too overwhelming. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force for a more classic keystroke feel, the Jupiter Brown may be the ideal option. Its blend of tradition and innovation, along with a single-stage spring, offers a tactile typing experience with enhanced softer backlight effects. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preference for bottom out force and typing feel.
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