KTT Ash Gray vs. Durock Medium Tactile
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the Durock Medium Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the KTT Ash Gray and the Durock Medium Tactile. The Ash Gray switch is designed to provide a tactile response that is both substantial and unobtrusive. With its light touch and crisp actuation, this switch offers a delightful blend of tactile feedback, striking a balance between not being too overwhelming and avoiding the unnoticed "sandy" sensation. On the other hand, the Medium Tactile switch from Durock showcases a pronounced yet balanced tactility, creating a unique typing experience. Its jelly-like sound signature adds an extra touch of satisfaction. While the Ash Gray switch falls under the category of 'Easy-to-press', 'Mild', and 'Neutral', the Medium Tactile switch is classified as 'Accented', 'Stepped', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. These general characteristics provide a foundation for choosing between the two switches. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
65g
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 Medium Tactile share a similarity in their housing materials. Both switches utilize a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate, a stiffer plastic, enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous for those planning to incorporate RGB lighting into their setup. Therefore, users can expect similar results when it comes to sound and aesthetics in terms of the top housing.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing materials. The Ash Gray employs a nylon bottom housing, while the Medium Tactile utilizes the same nylon material. Nylon is known for its ability to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches. This is attributed to nylon's relatively softer composition, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Consequently, the bottom housing of these switches will have a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel.
Overall, the KTT Ash Gray and the Durock Medium Tactile share similarities in their polycarbonate top housing, which enhances the sound and is useful for RGB lighting. However, their divergence lies in the bottom housing materials. The Ash Gray's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Medium Tactile also utilizes nylon to achieve similar results. Thus, depending on the desired typing experience and sound profile, users can choose between these switches to achieve their preferred outcome.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Durock Medium Tactile switch, there are noticeable differences. The Ash Gray has an actuation force of 38 grams, providing a relatively light touch to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the actuation force of the Medium Tactile switch is unavailable, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison. However, the bottom out force of the Ash Gray is 53 grams, indicating a slightly heavier feel when pressing all the way down. On the other hand, the Medium Tactile switch has a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it noticeably heavier in comparison.
The weight of a switch is an important consideration for different users. Those who prefer a lighter switch may find the Ash Gray more suitable, as it allows for longer periods of comfortable typing, making it ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a stronger push feel and desire a more substantial typing experience may gravitate towards switches with heavier forces. In this case, the Medium Tactile switch would be a better choice.
Overall, while the actuation force of the Ash Gray is known and moderately light, the same cannot be said for the Medium Tactile. Nevertheless, it can be inferred that the Medium Tactile switch is heavier based on its bottom out force. Both switches offer different experiences, with the Ash Gray providing a lighter touch and the Medium Tactile offering a heavier, more pronounced keystroke.
Travel distance
When it comes to the travel distance, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch has a distance of 3.5 mm, while the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch has a distance of 4 mm. In terms of the shorter travel distance, the Ash Gray takes the lead with its 3.5 mm travel distance. This makes it ideal for gamers who prioritize faster response times, as the shorter distance allows for quicker key presses. On the other hand, the Durock Medium Tactile provides a longer travel distance of 4 mm, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on the keys. Overall, it ultimately depends on personal preference, whether one desires a shorter and more responsive travel distance or a longer and more immersive keystroke 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 Durock Medium 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 Medium 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
In terms of sound, the KTT Ash Gray switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate volume level and actuation force requirement, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, there is no specific information available about the sound profile of the Durock Medium Tactile switch. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used. Therefore, it is recommended to consider these aspects when determining the overall sound experience.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Ash Gray switch offers an easy-to-press experience. This means that it requires minimal force to activate, providing a light and effortless typing experience. The switch is also described as having a mild tactile feel, which means that it offers a gentle tactile feedback without being too pronounced. This combination of easy pressing and mild tactility ensures a comfortable and low-impact typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Medium Tactile switch is described as having an accented tactility. This means that it provides a prominent amount of tactile feedback that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Additionally, the switch is also described as being stepped, which means that it has a two-stage feel with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. The switch's mild characteristic further adds to the approachable sound and feel that most users will find comfortable.
In conclusion, comparing the subjective qualities of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch, we can see that both switches offer pleasant typing experiences. The Ash Gray provides a light touch with a crisp actuation, offering a blend of tactile feedback that is not overwhelming but noticeable. It has a neutral sound profile and is easy to press with a mild tactile feel. On the other hand, the Durock Medium Tactile has a pronounced yet balanced tactility and a jelly-like sound signature. It offers accented tactility with a stepped feel, providing a prominent amount of feedback without being overpowering. Both switches aim to offer a comfortable typing experience, but the Ash Gray leans towards a gentler and effortless feel, while the Medium Tactile provides a more pronounced and tactile experience. Depending on personal preferences, users can choose the switch that aligns with their desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a light touch and crisp actuation, the KTT Ash Gray is the perfect choice for you. With a bottom out force of 53 grams, it offers a delightful blend of tactile feedback that is not too overwhelming. It has an easy-to-press feel, requiring minimal force to activate, making typing effortless and comfortable. The Ash Gray is also described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced users in various settings.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more pronounced tactility without it being overwhelming, the Durock Medium Tactile is the way to go. With a bottom out force of 65 grams, it provides a balanced and accented tactile experience without being too scratchy. It has a stepped feel, giving you the sensation of two stages during keystrokes. The Medium Tactile is also described as having a mild sound and feel, making it approachable to most users.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Ash Gray and the Durock Medium Tactile depends on your personal preferences. If you prefer a lighter touch and a neutral sound profile, go for the Ash Gray. If you prefer a more pronounced tactility and a stepped feel, choose the Medium Tactile. Assess your typing needs and preferences to make an informed decision. Happy typing!
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