KTT Ash Gray vs. Bsun Kiki Red
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the Bsun Kiki Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Ash Gray and Bsun Kiki Red offer distinct typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The Ash Gray switch is known for its tactile feedback, providing a light yet crisp actuation that strikes a balance between being noticeable without being overwhelming. On the other hand, the Kiki Red switch boasts a smooth and clacky typing experience with medium-light weighting, perfect for those who enjoy a subtle auditory feedback. While the Ash Gray is categorized as 'Easy-to-press', 'Mild', and 'Neutral', the Kiki Red is described as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'Frictionless', 'Polished', 'Silky', 'Snappy', and 'Easy-to-press'. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
20.4mm single-stage nickel-plated spring
Housing materials
The KTT Ash Gray and the Bsun Kiki Red both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Ash Gray utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharp, higher-pitched sound, while the Kiki Red's POM top housing produces a deeper, more muted sound. In terms of aesthetics, the Ash Gray's translucency makes it ideal for RGB lighting, whereas the Kiki Red offers a more classic look. Both switches provide distinct sound experiences due to their different top housing materials.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the Ash Gray's nylon material creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. Similarly, the Kiki Red's POM bottom housing contributes to a pleasing and unique sound that is deeper and more muted, matching the characteristics of its top housing. Despite having different bottom housing materials, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with their respective sound profiles.
Overall, the choice between the KTT Ash Gray and the Bsun Kiki Red ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound and aesthetics. Whether you prefer a sharper, higher-pitched sound with the Ash Gray's polycarbonate top housing or a deeper, more muted sound with the Kiki Red's POM top housing, both switches offer quality housing materials that enhance the typing experience. Additionally, the different bottom housing materials in each switch provide a unique feel when pressing down on the keys, further adding to the overall typing experience.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch differ in a few key ways. The Ash Gray has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams compared to the Kiki Red's 42 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes. However, the Ash Gray has a heavier bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Kiki Red has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the Kiki Red will provide a lighter overall typing experience, making it more suitable for long typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the Ash Gray will offer a bit more resistance and a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for lighter or heavier typing forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5mm, while the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular, particularly among gamers seeking faster response times. The Ash Gray offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which may appeal to those looking for a more responsive feel. On the other hand, the Kiki Red's slightly longer travel distance may provide a more substantial key press for those who prefer a greater depth to their keystrokes. Ultimately, the difference of 0.1mm between the two switches may not be significant enough to drastically affect the overall typing experience, so users can expect similar results in terms of travel distance regardless of which switch they choose.
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 Bsun Kiki Red has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Kiki Red for $3.83.
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 is considered neutral, offering a moderate actuation force requirement and sound profile suitable for various purposes. On the other hand, the Bsun Kiki Red switch is described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. The unique sound signatures of both switches can be further influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Ash Gray switch is known for being easy-to-press with a gentle resistance that minimizes finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. It also provides a mild typing experience that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone appreciated by many users. In contrast, the Bsun Kiki Red switch offers a creamy, frictionless, polished, and silky typing experience, characterized by smooth and buttery key presses that effortlessly glide across the keys. Additionally, the switch is described as snappy, providing a super responsive typing feel that adds liveliness to the typing experience.
Overall, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Ash Gray switch provides a neutral sound profile and easy-to-press feel with mild characteristics, the Kiki Red switch offers a clacky sound and a creamy, frictionless, polished, and silky feel that enhances the smoothness and responsiveness of typing. Choosing between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for sound, feel, and typing experience nuances.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch, it all comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a subtle tactile feedback with a light touch, the KTT Ash Gray switch would be a great choice. Its medium-light weighting and mild feel provide a smooth and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, if you enjoy a clacky sound accompanied by a creamy and frictionless feel, the Bsun Kiki Red switch would be the ideal option. Its light bottom out force and polished finish offer a unique typing experience that is smooth and responsive. Consider your sound and feel preferences when selecting between these switches to ensure that you find the perfect fit for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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