KTT Ash Gray vs. SP-Star Meteor Orange

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Ash Gray and SP-Star Meteor Orange are two options that stand out. The Ash Gray switch is designed to provide a tactile response that strikes a perfect balance between being substantial and unobtrusive. With a light touch and a crisp actuation, this switch offers a delightful blend of tactile feedback that is not overwhelming yet far from the unnoticed "sandy" sensation. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange switch is characterized by its exquisite gentleness. It boasts a soft and seductive tactility, complemented by a neutral sound profile. What sets these switches apart is their categorization. The Ash Gray switch falls under the categories of easy-to-press, mild, and neutral, while the Meteor Orange switch fits into the neutral, mild, thocky, and polished categories. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision and choose the switch that best suits your preferences.

By the numbers

KTT Ash Gray Tactile

SP-Star Meteor Orange Tactile

$3.00

$2.55 per 10

$5.50

$5.00 per 10

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Housing materials

The KTT Ash Gray and SP-Star Meteor Orange differ in terms of their housing materials. The Ash Gray features a polycarbonate top housing, while the Meteor Orange has a nylon top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffer nature. On the other hand, nylon elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. Therefore, typing on the Ash Gray with its polycarbonate top housing will result in a clearer and resonant sound, while the Meteor Orange with its nylon top housing will create a duller and rounder sound.

Both the Ash Gray and Meteor Orange share the same housing material for their bottom housing, which is nylon. This material absorbs more sound than harder plastics, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile. As a result, regardless of whether you choose the Ash Gray or the Meteor Orange, the typing experience will offer a similar impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. In this aspect, the houses exhibit the same qualities and deliver a consistent experience.

It is worth noting that the choice of top housing material plays a significant role in the sound you hear when releasing a key. With the Ash Gray and its polycarbonate top housing, you can expect a distinct sound when you let go of a key, as polycarbonate produces a specific sound profile. On the contrary, the Meteor Orange with its nylon top housing will likely provide a different sound upon key release, characterized by the absorbent properties of nylon. Therefore, the top housing material influences the sound during the key release, differentiating the two switches in this particular aspect of the typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, the actuation force and bottom out force are worth considering. The Ash Gray has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, which can be considered medium-light. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange's actuation force is currently unavailable, but it has a bottom out force of 57 grams, also classified as medium-light.

In terms of weight, some individuals prefer a lighter switch as it allows for more comfortable typing over extended periods, which makes it suitable for work or prolonged gaming sessions. However, others may prefer a heavier actuation force for a more substantial typing experience. In this case, they should opt for options with heavier forces.

Interestingly, both the Ash Gray and the Meteor Orange fall under the medium-light category, indicating a similar typing experience in terms of force. While the actuation force of the Meteor Orange is unknown, the bottom out force is slightly heavier at 57 grams compared to the Ash Gray's 53 grams. This slight difference may result in a slightly more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a heavier push feel.

Overall, the Ash Gray and Meteor Orange switches offer comparable actuation forces and bottom out forces, with the latter being slightly heavier. However, with the limited information available on the Meteor Orange's actuation force, it is difficult to make a direct comparison in terms of force required to trigger a keystroke.

Travel distance

The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Meteor Orange switch is slightly longer than the Ash Gray switch.

4.0mm is the most traditional travel distance, while 3.0mm is the most shallow. However, in recent times, shorter travel distances have become prevalent, especially among gamers who prefer faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, opting for the Ash Gray switch with its shorter travel distance would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, for those who prefer a more substantial keystroke, the Meteor Orange switch with its slightly longer travel distance may be preferred. The choice ultimately depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, both the KTT Ash Gray and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switches have a neutral sound profile. This means that they produce a moderate sound when pressed, which makes them suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or an advanced user, and whether you are using them at home or at work. However, it should be noted that the sound of a switch can also be affected by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

When it comes to feel, both switches offer a gentle and approachable typing experience. The KTT Ash Gray is described as easy-to-press, which means it offers gentle resistance during key presses and requires minimal force to activate. This makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The switch is also considered mild, providing a typing experience that is gentle compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Similarly, the SP-Star Meteor Orange is also described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Additionally, these switches are polished, resulting in a smooth and refined finish that ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel.

In conclusion, both the KTT Ash Gray and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switches offer a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience. While the sound profile of both switches is neutral, providing a moderate sound when pressed, the feel of the switches is where they differ slightly. The KTT Ash Gray offers an easy-to-press experience with a mild feel, while the SP-Star Meteor Orange provides a gentle and polished feel. However, both switches offer a tactile response that is subtle yet noticeable, making them suitable for users who prefer a light touch with a crisp actuation. Additionally, the switches' qualities place them in a safe middle-ground zone, ensuring an overall pleasant typing experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a delightful blend of tactile feedback, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch is the one for you. With its easy-to-press and mild feel, it offers a low-impact and comfortable typing experience, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The Ash Gray switch also has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or work. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a thocky sound profile and a polished finish for a sleek typing experience, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch would be your best choice. It also has a medium-light bottom out force and a mild feel, providing a gentle and approachable typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on your personal preference for sound and feel.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Ash Gray Tactile

$3.00

$2.55 per 10

Learn more

SP-Star Meteor Orange Tactile

$5.50

$5.00 per 10

Learn more