KTT Ash Gray vs. KTT Miaowu
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the KTT Miaowu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Ash Gray and KTT Miaowu are two distinct mechanical keyboard switches that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Ash Gray is a tactile switch renowned for its subtle yet satisfying tactile response, making it ideal for those who prefer a light touch with a crisp actuation. In contrast, the Miaowu is a linear switch known for its enhanced stem stability and smoother keystroke action, perfect for users who prefer a bouncy and clacky 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
43g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
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
Housing materials
The KTT Ash Gray and KTT Miaowu both feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This material is ideal for switches with RGB lighting as its translucency allows for unique light effects. However, the Ash Gray stands out with its nylon bottom housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Miaowu's polycarbonate bottom. The nylon in the bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the Ash Gray.
In terms of material composition, the top housings of both the KTT Ash Gray and Miaowu are made of polycarbonate, offering a similar sound profile and aesthetic appeal with their clear design. However, the difference lies in their bottom housings. While the Ash Gray features a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound, the Miaowu sticks to polycarbonate for both top and bottom, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound profile overall. The split in housing materials affects the overall typing experience, with the Ash Gray emphasizing the impact on bottom-out sound and feel, while the Miaowu focuses more on the sound when releasing a key.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Ash Gray and KTT Miaowu comes down to individual preferences in sound and typing experience. The Ash Gray's combination of polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housing provides a unique blend of sharpness and depth in sound, catering to those who enjoy a fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the Miaowu's consistent use of polycarbonate throughout offers a more uniform sharp and crisp sound, suitable for users who prefer a consistent typing experience without the variation in sound between top and bottom housings. Both switches have their own advantages and can deliver satisfying results depending on the user's preferences.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the KTT Miaowu linear switch, it is evident that the Ash Gray has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams compared to the Miaowu's 43 grams. However, the Ash Gray has a heavier bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Miaowu's bottom out force is lighter at 50 grams. This makes the Miaowu switch overall lighter in feel compared to the Ash Gray switch. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may gravitate towards the Miaowu switch, as it requires less force to activate the keystroke and bottom out. In contrast, the Ash Gray switch offers a slightly more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force. Both switches provide their unique tactile feedback, but the differences in actuation and bottom out forces cater to different preferences in typing feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on whether one prefers a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the KTT Miaowu linear switch both have the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, users will experience a consistent travel distance from the top to the bottom. This similarity ensures that users will get a similar tactile experience with both switches, regardless of whether they prefer a tactile or linear feel. In terms of travel distance, both switches offer the same level of keypress satisfaction and responsiveness.
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 KTT Miaowu has an MSRP of $4.32 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Miaowu for $3.71.
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 tactile switch is known for its neutral sound profile, which is moderate and suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or an advanced user. On the other hand, the KTT Miaowu linear switch is described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This difference in sound profile can be attributed to the design and materials used in each switch, impacting the overall auditory experience for the user.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Ash Gray switch offers an easy-to-press experience with gentle resistance and minimal force required for activation. This light actuation force results in effortless typing and reduced finger fatigue during extended use. The switch also provides a mild tactile feedback, making it approachable to most users. In contrast, the KTT Miaowu switch is characterized by a bouncy sensation, providing a spring-like and elastic feedback when keys are pressed. This gives the keys a lively feel, offering users a sense of rebound during typing.
Considering the information provided, it is evident that the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and KTT Miaowu linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ash Gray switch provides a neutral sound profile and an easy-to-press typing experience, while the Miaowu switch offers a clacky sound and a bouncy feedback sensation. Depending on individual preferences for sound and typing feel, users can choose between these switches to customize their mechanical keyboard experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing needs of the user.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch or the KTT Miaowu linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a medium-light tactile switch with a delightful blend of tactile feedback and easy actuation, the Ash Gray may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light linear switch with enhanced stem stability and a bouncy feel, the Miaowu could be the ideal option. Consider your typing habits, preferences for sound and feel, and overall typing experience when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing needs.
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