KTT Ash Gray vs. Gateron Mini i
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the Gateron Mini i switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the KTT Ash Gray and the Gateron Mini i mechanical keyboard switches, you are presented with two excellent options that cater to different preferences. The Ash Gray switch is designed to provide a tactile response that is both noticeable and pleasant, striking a balance between a light touch and a crisp actuation. In contrast, the Gateron Mini i switch offers a subtle tactility in each keystroke, maintaining a fairly muted sound profile that is ideal for office environments. Both switches are categorized as easy-to-press and mild, but the Mini i also adds features like bounciness and snappiness to its profile. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Ash Gray and the Gateron Mini i, it is clear that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This means that typing on either switch will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The similarities in the bottom housing materials of these switches suggest that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel when it comes to the bottom-out sound.
However, where the switches differ is in their choice of top housing material. The Ash Gray features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, leads to a more clear and resonant sound profile. On the other hand, the Mini i utilizes a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a sound that is duller and rounder compared to polycarbonate. This difference in top housing materials highlights how the sound profile of each switch can vary based on the material used in the top housing.
When it comes to the overall typing experience, the use of different housing materials for the top and bottom of a switch can have a noticeable impact. The qualities of the bottom housing material will affect the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing material will influence the sound when releasing a key. In the case of the Ash Gray and the Mini i, the contrast between the polycarbonate top housing of the Ash Gray and the nylon top housing of the Mini i will result in distinct sound profiles during typing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in terms of the sound and feel that each housing material imparts.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, it is evident that the Mini i is the lighter of the two switches. The Ash Gray has a slightly lower actuation force of 38 grams compared to the Mini i's 40 grams. However, the Ash Gray requires a higher bottom out force of 53 grams, whereas the Mini i only needs 50 grams. Both switches provide a tactile typing experience, but the Ash Gray offers a slightly heavier feel during bottoming out, while the Mini i provides a lighter touch overall. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Mini i would be the more suitable choice, as it allows for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, the Ash Gray may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a slightly heavier touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter range of travel distances, making them suitable for those looking for fast response times, such as gamers. The slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be noticeable to the average user, as they both provide a relatively short keystroke. Overall, the KTT Ash Gray offers a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Gateron Mini i, but in practical terms, users are likely to experience similar results with both switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two may come down to personal preference in terms of the feel of the keystrokes.
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 Mini i comes in at $6.00 per 10 switches.
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, both the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch are described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that they offer a moderate actuation force requirement and sound profile, making them suitable for various typing environments, whether at home or in an office setting. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the KTT Ash Gray is noted for its easy-to-press and mild characteristics. These switches offer gentle resistance during key presses and require minimal force to activate, making typing effortless and comfortable. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i switch is described as bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, snappy, subtle, and stepped. These switches provide a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, giving a lively feel when typing. Additionally, they offer gentle resistance, a light typing feel, and a two-stage tactile response. Overall, both switches provide a comfortable typing experience with their unique tactile feedback.
In conclusion, both the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch offer similar qualities in terms of sound and feel. They both provide a neutral sound profile, making them versatile for various typing environments. While the Ash Gray switch is easy-to-press and mild, the Mini i switch offers a bouncy, easy-to-press, snappy, subtle, and stepped typing experience. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences but can deliver a satisfying typing experience for newcomers to mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, consider your preference for actuation force and sound profile. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and a crisp actuation with a balanced tactile feedback, the Ash Gray switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a lighter bottom out force and a more muted sound profile for a quiet typing experience, the Mini i switch could be the ideal option. Ultimately, both switches offer their unique advantages, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style.
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