KTT Ash Gray vs. Kailh BCP

Overview

When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, both the KTT Ash Gray and the Kailh BCP offer unique experiences catering to different user preferences. The Ash Gray, a tactile switch, is celebrated for its well-balanced tactile response that strikes a sweet spot between substantial feedback and a smooth typing sensation. Users can expect a delightful combination of easy actuation and mild feedback that doesn't overwhelm, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate a nuanced typing experience without sacrificing comfort. On the other hand, the Kailh BCP, a linear switch, takes a different approach, featuring a creamy and elastic feel that ensures a bouncy and satisfying keypress. Its poppy, clacky sound profile adds an auditory element to the typing experience that many find engaging and enjoyable. While the Ash Gray may be ideal for typists who thrive on tactile feedback, the BCP is perfect for those who prefer smooth, uninterrupted keystrokes. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

KTT Ash Gray Tactile

Kailh BCP Linear

$3.00

$2.55 per 10

$5.00

$4.75 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The KTT Ash Gray switch features a polycarbonate top housing, while the Kailh BCP uses nylon for its upper casing. Polycarbonate, known for its stiffer composition, creates a sharper and more resonant sound profile, resulting in a higher-pitched typing experience. This material’s transparency also enhances visual effects when RGB lighting is applied, making it particularly appealing for customizable keyboards. In contrast, nylon's inherent softness contributes to a deeper, fuller sound that tends to absorb noise rather than amplify it. This distinction in sound profile reflects how the choice of material in the top housing significantly influences the auditory feedback level produced when typing.

Focusing on the bottom housings, both the KTT Ash Gray and the Kailh BCP employ nylon, providing them with a consistent characteristic in terms of sound and feel. As a softer plastic, nylon absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder auditory experience. This shared feature means that, when typing on either switch, users may appreciate the plush feedback from the bottom housing, which adds depth to the sound profile and softens the key-bottoming effect. Hence, while the top housings diverge in material and consequently in sound quality, the nylon bottom housings align perfectly in producing a similar typing experience.

Ultimately, the combination of disparate materials in the top housings of both switches leads to a unique interplay of sound profiles. The KTT Ash Gray's polycarbonate top contributes to clarity and brightness, making it effective for audible feedback during key release, while the Kailh BCP’s nylon housing offers a muted yet rich tone. Users will note the contrasting median of sound: the Ash Gray excelling in sharpness and resonance and the BCP in softness and warmth. However, since both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, the overall experience can yield comparable outcomes in terms of depth, thanks to the commonality of material used in that component.

Weight

When comparing the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch to the Kailh BCP linear switch, significant differences emerge in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Ash Gray has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it well-suited for users who prefer a less taxing typing experience, especially during long writing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Kailh BCP features a heavier actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, catering to those who enjoy a more substantial push feel when typing. As a result, the Ash Gray is ideal for users seeking a medium-light touch, while the BCP appeals to those who favor a medium-heavy resistance. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches depends on individual preferences for typing comfort and tactile feedback.

Travel distance

Both the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch have an identical travel distance of 3.5 mm, meaning that when pressed, both switches will provide the same tactile feedback and depth. This equal travel distance ensures that users will experience a similar keypress feel, making either switch a great choice for those who appreciate a consistent typing experience. Since both switches share this characteristic, enthusiasts looking for uniformity in their keyboard setup will find both options equally effective.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the KTT Ash Gray switch presents a neutral profile, implying a moderate actuation force and a mild sound that makes it versatile for various environments, whether at home or in an office setting. This balanced acoustics ensures that the switch won't be overly distracting or disruptive, making it a friendly option for both beginners and seasoned users alike. In contrast, the Kailh BCP linear switch is characterized by a poppy and clacky sound profile, offering a more engaging auditory experience. This sound is influenced by the switch design and might vary based on the choice of the keyboard’s construction and keycaps, providing an overall livelier typing ambiance.

In terms of feel, the KTT Ash Gray switch excels with its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force for actuation. This feature ensures a comfortable typing experience that significantly reduces finger fatigue during extended sessions. The tactile feedback is mild, striking a balance that appeals to a broad audience without being overly intrusive. Conversely, the BCP switch is described with qualities that suggest a creamy, elastic, and bouncy feel, creating a distinctly lively typing experience, along with the unique sensation of a pop when keys are activated. While the Ash Gray aims for approachable feedback, the BCP likely offers a more dynamic and playful engagement with each keystroke.

In summary, both the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch present their unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Ash Gray is ideal for users who seek a more neutral sound and a gentle, fatigue-reducing typing experience, while the BCP offers a lively sound and bouncier feel that appeals to those looking for a more engaging interaction with their keyboard. Ultimately, selecting between these switches depends on whether you prioritize a subdued yet efficient tactile experience or a more vibrant auditory and tactile feedback.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch, consider the nature of your typing experience and usage patterns. If you prefer a switch that provides a balanced tactile response without being overly forceful, the Ash Gray is an excellent choice. Its medium-light bottom-out force of 53 grams means less finger fatigue during long typing sessions, making it perfect for everyday tasks such as writing, programming, or general office work. The neutral sound profile further enhances its versatility, allowing you to use it in both quiet and collaborative environments without being intrusive. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more tactile, pronounced feel and a slightly heavier resistance, the Kailh BCP switch might be more suitable for you. With its medium-heavy bottom-out force of 63.5 grams and bouncy yet creamy feedback, it excels in providing a unique typing experience that many enthusiasts appreciate, especially for gaming or typing with a bit more character. Ultimately, your choice should align with what you find most comfortable and enjoyable, balancing both tactile feedback and typing endurance based on your personal preference.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Ash Gray Tactile

$3.00

$2.55 per 10

Learn more

Kailh BCP Linear

$5.00

$4.75 per 10

Learn more