KTT Ash Gray vs. Durock Lupine

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that often come up are the KTT Ash Gray, a tactile switch, and the Durock Lupine, a linear switch. The Ash Gray switch is designed to provide a tactile response that is both substantial and unobtrusive, offering a light touch with a crisp actuation. This switch offers a delightful blend of tactile feedback without being overwhelming or giving a sandy sensation. On the other hand, the Lupine switch stands out for its two-stage long springs, which provide a consistent weight distribution when pressed down and a more powerful upward movement on the rebound. Additionally, the Lupine switch produces a classic clacky sound profile. While these are general pointers that may help you decide on which switch suits your preferences, let's dive deeper to provide more information for you to make the best switch choice.

By the numbers

KTT Ash Gray Tactile

Durock Lupine Linear

$3.00

$2.55 per 10

$5.50

$4.25 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The KTT Ash Gray and the Durock Lupine share similar housing materials, with both switches featuring a polycarbonate top housing. This material choice contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it a great option for those planning to use RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through beautifully. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics when comparing the Ash Gray and the Lupine.

On the other hand, the bottom housing of the Ash Gray is made of nylon, while the Lupine also utilizes nylon as its bottom housing material. Nylon is renowned for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use nylon bottom housings. Users of both the Ash Gray and the Lupine can enjoy this characteristic, as the bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.

It is worth mentioning that when a switch features different housing materials for the top and bottom, the qualities of each material will be split between these two components. Therefore, the bottom housing's impact on the sound and feel will be noticeable when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing will play a larger role in determining the sound when releasing a key. This allows for a dynamic typing experience, as the switch can offer distinct sensations depending on whether the key is being pressed or released.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch, we can see some differences. The actuation force of the Ash Gray is 38 grams, while the Lupine's actuation force is not specified. However, the Ash Gray falls under the category of medium-light, indicating a relatively lighter force required to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Ash Gray has a measurement of 53 grams, whereas the Lupine has a bottom out force of 62 grams, placing it in the medium range.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Ash Gray would be a suitable choice as it requires less force to actuate the keys and bottom out. This lighter weight can be advantageous for prolonged typing sessions, making it an ideal option for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Lupine switch due to its heavier bottom out force. This heavier force can provide a stronger push feel, resulting in a more satisfying and tactile typing experience.

While the actuation force of the Lupine switch is unknown, the comparison highlights the difference in bottom out force between the two switches. However, it is worth noting that if the actuation force of the Lupine switch is comparable to the Ash Gray switch, then users can expect to achieve similar results in terms of the force required to trigger keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences, with the Ash Gray offering a lighter typing experience and the Lupine providing a more substantial feel.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch, we find that the Ash Gray has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Lupine has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both of these distances fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular in keyboards. Gamers, in particular, often prefer shorter travel distances as they allow for faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, the Ash Gray switch with its shorter travel distance may be the better choice for you. However, it is worth noting that some individuals find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt. If you prefer a more substantial key press and a deeper feel, the Lupine switch with its slightly longer travel distance may be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preference for travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the KTT Ash Gray switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate sound level and is suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user and whether you plan to use the switch at home or work. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine switch is also described as having a neutral sound profile, but it is mentioned that these switches produce a high-pitched and crisp sound when pressed. If you prefer a sharper and more distinctive sound, the Lupine switch may be a better choice for you. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the KTT Ash Gray switch is characterized as easy-to-press and mild. 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 provides a responsive and low-impact typing feel. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine switch is also described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience. Similar to the Ash Gray switch, it falls within a safe and middle-ground zone in terms of its qualities. Additionally, the Lupine switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish. This results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.

Based on the information provided, both the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch have their own unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ash Gray switch offers a blend of tactile feedback that is substantial yet unobtrusive, providing a light touch with a crisp actuation. It has a neutral sound profile and is easy to press, making it suitable for most users. On the other hand, the Lupine switch provides a consistent weight distribution and a more powerful upward movement on the rebound. It has a neutral sound profile as well, but produces a high-pitched and clacky sound when pressed. Both switches offer a mild typing experience, but the Lupine switch stands out with its polished finish, resulting in a smoother and more refined typing feel.

Overall, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a moderate sound profile and a light touch, the KTT Ash Gray switch would be a good choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a high-pitched and more distinctive sound, along with a polished and refined typing experience, the Durock Lupine switch would be a suitable option. While they have some differences, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience, and depending on your preferences, you can achieve similar results with either of them.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you prioritize a light and crisp tactile feedback while typing, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch would be an excellent choice for you. With a bottom out force of 53 grams, these switches offer a delightful blend of tactile feedback that is not overwhelming but far from unnoticed. They provide a responsive and low-impact typing feel, making typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the Ash Gray switches have a neutral sound profile, suitable for most intents and purposes.

On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a more powerful upward movement and a classic clacky sound profile, the Durock Lupine linear switch would be an ideal option. With a bottom out force of 62 grams, these switches offer a consistent weight distribution when pressed down and a more pronounced rebound. They provide a mild typing experience, suitable for most individuals, and have a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.

Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch comes down to your personal preferences in terms of feedback and sound. Both switches offer medium actuation forces and neutral sound profiles, making them suitable for most intents and purposes. Consider the typing experience you desire, whether it's a light and crisp tactile feedback or a linear switch with a more powerful upward movement and clacky sound.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Ash Gray Tactile

$3.00

$2.55 per 10

Learn more

Durock Lupine Linear

$5.50

$4.25 per 10

Learn more