KTT Ash Gray vs. Gateron Lunar Probe
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the Gateron Lunar Probe switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Ash Gray is a tactile switch that offers a blend of tactile feedback that is both substantial and unobtrusive, providing a light touch with crisp actuation. On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe is a linear switch featuring Gateron's dual rail mechanism for stable and consistent keypresses, offering an incredibly smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation. While the Ash Gray is categorized as 'Easy-to-press', 'Mild', and 'Neutral', the Lunar Probe does not have specific categories listed. When choosing between these two switches, the Ash Gray is great for those who enjoy tactile feedback without it being overwhelming, while the Lunar Probe is ideal for those seeking a smooth and consistent linear typing experience. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
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
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
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
The KTT Ash Gray and the Gateron Lunar Probe both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate plastic creates a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches that prioritize sound quality. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it perfect for switches that utilize RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the keyboard. With both switches using polycarbonate top housings, users can expect a similar sound experience and visual enhancement when using either option.
In contrast, the KTT Ash Gray and the Gateron Lunar Probe differ in their choice of bottom housing material. The Ash Gray features a nylon bottom housing, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer texture that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate top housing. On the other hand, the Lunar Probe also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, offering a similar typing experience with a focus on creating a deeper and fuller sound. Despite the difference in bottom housing material, both switches provide users with a tactile typing experience, albeit with slight variations in sound profile.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in a switch plays a significant role in shaping the sound and tactile experience for the user. While both the KTT Ash Gray and the Gateron Lunar Probe feature polycarbonate top housings for a clear and resonant sound, they differ in their bottom housing material, with the Ash Gray utilizing nylon for a deeper sound profile and the Lunar Probe following suit. Ultimately, users can expect a unique typing experience from each switch, tailored to their preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams compared to the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Ash Gray has a heavier bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Lunar Probe has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the Ash Gray provides a slightly lighter initial push but requires more force to fully press down, whereas the Lunar Probe is lighter overall. Both switches offer a balance between actuation force and bottom out force, providing a comfortable typing experience without causing fatigue. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preference for a lighter or slightly heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch is 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular especially among gamers seeking quicker response times. Choosing between the two would come down to personal preference, with the Ash Gray offering a slightly shorter travel distance for those who prioritize speed and the Lunar Probe providing a bit more depth for those who prefer a more substantial feel. In comparing the two, the Ash Gray would be the shorter option while the Lunar Probe would be the longer option, though the difference between them is minimal. Ultimately, both switches offer similar results in terms of travel distance and would likely provide a comparable typing experience.
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 Gateron Lunar Probe has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lunar Probe for $4.19.
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 is known for its neutral sound profile, which is ideal for a variety of settings and purposes, whether you are a beginner or an experienced user. On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch does not have a specific sound descriptor provided, so it may offer a different sound experience that could vary depending on your keyboard setup. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch is influenced by various factors such as the keyboard case and keycap material used.
In terms of feel, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch offers an easy-to-press experience with a light actuation force that makes typing effortless and comfortable. The mild tactile feedback of the Ash Gray switch provides a pleasant typing experience that is gentle on the fingers and reduces fatigue during extended typing sessions. Similarly, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch does not have a feel descriptor provided, but linear switches are known for their smooth keypresses without the tactile bump present in tactile switches like the Ash Gray.
Overall, both the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Ash Gray switch provides a subtle tactile feedback and low-impact typing feel, while the Lunar Probe switch guarantees stable and consistent keypresses with a smooth linear sensation. Depending on your personal preference for tactility and sound profile, you can achieve a satisfying typing experience with either switch option. Ultimately, trying out both switches on your own keyboard setup will give you the best insight into which one suits your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, consider your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a light touch with a moderate tactile feedback, the Ash Gray switch may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and consistent linear typing experience with minimal sound, the Lunar Probe switch could be more suitable. Remember that the Ash Gray offers a slightly higher bottom out force and a tactile feel, while the Lunar Probe profile is lighter and linear. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your individual typing preferences and needs. Experiment with both to see which one enhances your typing experience the most.
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