KTT Ash Gray vs. Durock Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the Durock Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Ash Gray and the Durock Light Tactile are two popular options that offer unique features. The Ash Gray switch is designed to provide a tactile response that strikes a perfect balance between being noticeable but not overwhelming. With an easy-to-press feel and a crisp actuation, typing on the Ash Gray switch feels delightfully tactile without any sandy sensation. On the other hand, the Light Tactile switch from Durock showcases a gentler tactility compared to the sharper tactile switches commonly found on the market. It offers an angelic tactility and emits a jelly-like sound signature while typing. Categorized as "Easy-to-press", "Mild", and "Neutral", the Ash Gray switch boasts a compelling blend of qualities. Meanwhile, the Light Tactile switch falls under the categories of "Neutral", "Mild", and "Polished". Both switches have their own merits in terms of tactility, but let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide which switch suits your preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
52g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The KTT Ash Gray and the Durock Light Tactile both feature polycarbonate top housings, which brings several similar characteristics to the switches. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, allowing for a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency makes it especially useful for switches with RGB lighting. Therefore, both the Ash Gray and the Light Tactile will provide similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics due to their shared polycarbonate top housing material.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the KTT Ash Gray and the Durock Light Tactile differ as the former utilizes a nylon material while the latter features a polycarbonate bottom housing. The Ash Gray's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Light Tactile's polycarbonate bottom housing may provide a different sound experience due to its stiffer nature. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, meaning users may notice a distinction in the typing experience between the Ash Gray and the Light Tactile.
In summary, both the KTT Ash Gray and the Durock Light Tactile share the benefits of a polycarbonate top housing, including a sharper and crisper sound profile, along with the option for RGB lighting. However, they differ in terms of their bottom housing material. The Ash Gray's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound through sound absorption, while the Light Tactile's polycarbonate bottom housing may provide a different sound experience due to its stiffer composition. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for sound and feel during typing.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Ash Gray has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams, whereas the Light Tactile requires 52 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Ash Gray requires 53 grams while the Light Tactile requires 67 grams. This means that the Light Tactile switch is heavier in both regards, offering a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Ash Gray switch provides a lighter touch, allowing for longer periods of comfortable typing, making it suitable for work or extended gaming sessions. Despite these differences, it is important to note that both switches fall within the medium range of actuation and bottom out forces, ensuring that users will still receive similar results in terms of responsiveness and key feel.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch is 3.5 mm, while the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches have a travel distance within the range of 3.0 mm to 4.0 mm, which is considered a standard range for most keyboard switches. However, the Ash Gray offers a slightly shallower travel distance compared to the Light Tactile.
If you are someone who values faster response times, the shorter travel distance of the Ash Gray may be more suitable for you. Gamers, in particular, often prefer switches with shorter travel distances to ensure quick and precise keystrokes. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial depth and a slightly more tactile experience, the Light Tactile with its longer travel distance might be a better fit for you.
Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on your personal preference and typing style. Both switches offer their own advantages, so it is essential to consider factors such as typing speed, comfort, and the level of tactile feedback you desire.
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 Durock Light Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Tactile for $4.25.
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
The subjective qualities of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch can be compared based on sound, feel, and overall impression.
Starting with sound, both the Ash Gray and Light Tactile switches are described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that they produce a moderate sound that is suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you are using the switches at home or work. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps chosen.
Moving on to feel, the Ash Gray switch offers an easy-to-press experience. This means that it requires minimal force to activate, resulting in effortless and comfortable typing. The light actuation force of the Ash Gray switch enhances the typing experience by reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the Ash Gray switch is described as having a mild tactile feel, which means it provides a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users.
On the other hand, the Light Tactile switch from Durock is also described as having a mild tactile feel. This switch offers a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The Light Tactile switch is known for its angelic tactility, which provides a smooth and pleasant typing sensation. Additionally, the Light Tactile switch has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, both the KTT Ash Gray and Durock Light Tactile switches offer similar qualities in terms of sound and feel. They both have a neutral sound profile that is suitable for most users, and they provide a mild tactile feel that is gentle and approachable. The Ash Gray switch is easy-to-press and offers a low-impact typing feel, while the Light Tactile switch has a polished finish for a sleek typing experience. Overall, both switches provide a delightful blend of tactile feedback without being overwhelming. Depending on personal preferences, both switches can result in a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch that offers a light touch with a crisp actuation and a delightful blend of tactile feedback, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch is a great choice for you. With its medium-light bottom out force of 53 grams, it provides a comfortable typing experience without causing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, it has a neutral sound profile that suits most intents and purposes.
On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a super gentle tactility and a jelly-like sound signature, the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch is the one for you. It has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, offering a more pronounced typing experience. It also has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various use cases. Furthermore, the Light Tactile switch is polished, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, both switches have their unique qualities and are suitable for different preferences. It ultimately comes down to whether you prefer a switch with a lighter touch and subtle tactility (KTT Ash Gray) or one with a more gentle tactility and polished feel (Durock Light Tactile). Ultimately, the choice depends on your personal preferences and typing style.
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