KTT Ash Gray vs. TKC Kiwi
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the TKC Kiwi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options are the KTT Ash Gray and the TKC Kiwi. The Ash Gray switch is known for its light touch and crisp actuation, providing a delightful blend of tactile feedback without being overwhelming. On the other hand, the Kiwi switch enhances the typing experience with a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, accompanied by a satisfyingly snappy sound profile. Additionally, the Kiwi switches come lightly factory lubed, ensuring a smooth and effortless typing experience right out of the box. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The KTT Ash Gray and TKC Kiwi differ in the materials used for their top housings. The Ash Gray utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, while the Kiwi features a UHWMPE top housing. In terms of sound profile, the polycarbonate top housing of the Ash Gray creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. On the other hand, the UHWMPE top housing of the Kiwi produces a very bright sound signature with resonant clacks. While both materials offer distinct sound characteristics, the use of clear housings indicates the presence of polycarbonate, making it especially suitable for RGB lighting. The Kiwi's newer UHWMPE material offers a different auditory experience, favoring a vibrant and resonant sound.
Moving onto the bottom housings, the Ash Gray employs a nylon bottom housing, while the Kiwi incorporates a UHWMPE bottom housing. Nylon, being a classic switch housing material, contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile in the Ash Gray. Its relatively softer nature allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Conversely, the Kiwi's UHWMPE bottom housing, being a newer material, offers a very bright sound signature with resonant clacks. While both materials serve as the foundation of the switch, nylon emphasizes a more subdued and mellow sound experience, while UHWMPE provides a lively and energetic audio response.
When considering how the top and bottom housings work together, the Ash Gray's sound profile will have a balance between the sharper and crisper sound from the polycarbonate top housing and the deeper and fuller sound from the nylon bottom housing. Conversely, the Kiwi will showcase the vibrant and resonant nature of its UHWMPE material in both the top and bottom housings. Furthermore, the qualities of each housing material are split between the top and bottom, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Despite the differences in materials, both the Ash Gray and Kiwi achieve satisfying sound profiles with their respective combinations of top and bottom housings.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch, there are noticeable differences between the two. The Ash Gray has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams, while the Kiwi requires slightly more pressure with an actuation force of 43 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Ash Gray is also lighter at 53 grams, whereas the Kiwi has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams.
These disparities suggest that the Ash Gray switch provides a lighter and more effortless typing experience, making it ideal for individuals who prefer a lighter touch and need to type for extended periods. On the other hand, the Kiwi switch offers a stronger push feel, giving users a more substantial typing experience. This could be beneficial for those who prefer a tactile switch that requires a bit more force to activate, resulting in a satisfying keystroke sensation.
Despite their differences, it is worth noting that both switches fall within the medium range in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of the overall feel and performance, but with slight variations in the amount of force required for each switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences and the specific typing experience desired.
Travel distance
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the TKC Kiwi tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Kiwi switch is longer compared to the Ash Gray switch. 4.0 mm is considered a more traditional travel distance, while the Ash Gray's 3.5 mm falls on the shorter side. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times, so if quick responsiveness is important to you, the Ash Gray switch would be a suitable choice. However, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt. If you prefer a deeper and more satisfying keypress, then the Kiwi switch with its longer travel distance would be a better option. In summary, if you prioritize a shorter travel distance for speed and responsiveness, go with the Ash Gray switch, whereas if you prefer a longer travel distance for a more substantial tactile feel, the Kiwi switch is the way to go.
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 TKC Kiwi comes in at $8.00 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
In terms of sound, the KTT Ash Gray switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, meaning it has a moderate sound level that is suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or work. On the other hand, the TKC Kiwi switch is described as having a low-pitched sound, which typically features a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the choice of board and keycaps, so the overall sound experience may vary.
When it comes to feel, the Ash Gray switch is known for its easy-to-press characteristics. These switches offer gentle resistance during key presses, requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the Ash Gray switch is described as having a mild feel, providing a typing experience that is approachable to most users. It falls in a safe middle-ground zone in terms of its tactile feedback. On the other hand, the TKC Kiwi switch is described as a stepped switch, meaning it has two stages of tactility. While not as pronounced as hypertactile switches, the Kiwi switch offers a medium amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. It is also worth mentioning that the Kiwi switch is polished, which means it has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Considering the available information, the KTT Ash Gray and TKC Kiwi switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ash Gray switch provides a tactile response that is substantial yet unobtrusive, with a light touch and crisp actuation. It has a neutral sound profile and offers an easy-to-press feel, providing a responsive and low-impact typing experience. On the other hand, the Kiwi switch enhances the typing experience with its medium-strong tactile bump, low-pitched sound profile, stepped feel, and polished finish for smooth key travel. Both switches aim to enhance the typing experience, but they provide different levels of tactility and sound profiles. It is important to choose the switch that aligns with your personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you're looking for a light and effortless typing experience with a moderate sound profile, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch would be a great choice for you. With a bottom out force of 53 grams, these switches offer easy-to-press keys that require minimal force to activate. The blend of tactile feedback is both substantial and unobtrusive, providing a delightful typing feel without overwhelming your fingertips. Additionally, the Ash Gray switches have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various environments.
On the other hand, if you prefer a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, combined with a low-pitched and immersive sound profile, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch would be the better option for you. With a bottom out force of 67 grams, these switches offer a slightly heavier typing experience but still provide a satisfyingly snappy feel. The Kiwi switches are designed to enhance your typing experience with its accented tactility, and they come lightly factory lubed for a smooth and effortless typing experience right out of the box. Furthermore, the Kiwi switches have a neutral sound profile, suitable for both beginners and advanced users in various settings.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Ash Gray and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch depends on your personal preference and typing style. If you value a lighter touch and a subtle tactile feel, the Ash Gray switches offer a low-impact and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a more pronounced tactile bump and a low-pitched sound profile, the Kiwi switches will provide a more immersive and satisfying typing experience. Consider your preferred typing feel, sound preference, and bottom out force when making your decision. Happy typing!
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