KTT Ash Gray vs. Everglide Lightning Silver V3
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch, there are key differences to consider. The Ash Gray switch is praised for its tactile response that strikes a perfect balance between being noticeable yet gentle, giving you a satisfying typing experience without feeling too heavy or mushy. On the other hand, the Lightning Silver V3 offers a clacky and high-pitched sound with a silky smooth typing feel, enhanced by its light diffuser for vibrant RGB illumination. While the Ash Gray is easy to press and has a mild feel, the Lightning Silver V3 is known for its clacky sound and high-pitched sensation. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Lengthened gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The KTT Ash Gray and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that resonates more clearly. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, the Ash Gray has a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Lightning Silver V3's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the sharper sound profile associated with polycarbonate.
While both switches share the polycarbonate top housing that creates a similar sound profile, they differ in their bottom housings. The KTT Ash Gray with its nylon bottom housing offers a softer and fuller typing experience, absorbing more sound to produce a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the sharp and resonant sound profile of the overall switch. This contrast highlights how the choice of bottom housing material can significantly impact the typing experience and sound produced by a switch.
When comparing the two switches, it is clear that the choice of housing materials plays a significant role in the overall sound profile and typing experience. While both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharp and clear sound, the KTT Ash Gray and Everglide Lightning Silver V3 diverge in their bottom housing materials. The Ash Gray's nylon bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound, while the Lightning Silver V3's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the sharp and crisp sound profile. Ultimately, the combination of top and bottom housing materials determines the tactile feel and sound produced by each switch, showcasing the importance of material choice in the design of mechanical switches.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch, it is clear that the Ash Gray is the lighter of the two with an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Lightning Silver V3 is slightly heavier with an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. The Ash Gray provides a medium-light feel, making it ideal for those looking for a lighter typing experience, whereas the Lightning Silver V3 offers a slightly more substantial typing experience with its medium forces. Both switches offer a smooth typing experience, but those in favor of a lighter touch may prefer the Ash Gray, while those looking for a bit more resistance may lean towards the Lightning Silver V3. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, slightly longer than the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular among gamers for their quicker response times. However, the Ash Gray offers a slightly deeper press compared to the Lightning Silver V3. For those who prefer a more pronounced key feel, the Ash Gray may be the better option, while the Lightning Silver V3 provides a slightly faster actuation for those looking for a more responsive typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer similar performance and can provide a satisfying typing experience depending on individual preferences.
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 Everglide Lightning Silver V3 has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lightning Silver V3 for $4.10.
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 tactile switch offers a neutral profile that's suitable for a wide range of users and environments. Its moderate actuation force and sound make it a versatile choice for both beginners and experienced typists. On the other hand, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch provides a clacky and high-pitched sound that adds a unique flair to your typing experience. If you prefer a sharp and snappy sound, these switches are a great option to consider, especially if you enjoy a bright and percussive sound profile.
In terms of feel, the Ash Gray tactile switch is described as easy-to-press and mild, offering a gentle resistance that minimizes finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions. The typing experience is responsive and low-impact, enhancing overall comfort and efficiency. Conversely, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch is silky smooth, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience that reduces resistance when pressing and releasing keys. This makes typing effortless and comfortable, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable typing feel overall.
Considering the information provided, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you're looking for a neutral sound profile and easy-to-press tactile feedback, the Ash Gray switch would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a clacky and high-pitched sound with a silky smooth typing experience, the Lightning Silver V3 switch may be more to your liking. Ultimately, both switches provide unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them would depend on your personal typing style and preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you prefer a light touch with a crisp actuation and a blend of tactile feedback that's not overwhelming, the Ash Gray would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a clacky and high-pitched sound signature with a smooth typing experience and enhanced RGB illumination, the Lightning Silver V3 would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the Ash Gray is best for those looking for a gentle typing experience with minimal finger fatigue, while the Lightning Silver V3 is ideal for those who enjoy a snappy sound and a silky smooth typing feel. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences to enhance your overall keyboarding experience.
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