KTT Ash Gray vs. KTT MoonRosa
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the KTT MoonRosa switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the KTT Ash Gray and the KTT MoonRosa. The Ash Gray switch is praised for its tactile feedback that strikes a perfect balance between being noticeable yet not overwhelming, providing a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the MoonRosa switch is known for its smooth typing feel and quiet sound profile, making it a great choice for those who prefer a softer touch. While the Ash Gray switch is categorized as 'Easy-to-press', 'Mild', and 'Neutral', the MoonRosa switch falls under 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', and 'Easy-to-press'. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
22mm spring
Housing materials
The KTT Ash Gray and the KTT MoonRosa offer unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Ash Gray features a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. In contrast, the MoonRosa's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound. This difference in sound profile is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate versus the characteristics of POM. While both materials offer their own advantages, such as the translucency of polycarbonate for RGB lighting and the unique sound of POM, they cater to different preferences in sound.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Ash Gray utilizes nylon, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the MoonRosa also employs POM for its bottom housing, creating a similar deep and muted sound profile as seen in its top housing. Both nylon and POM offer their own distinct acoustic qualities, with nylon providing a rounder sound and POM contributing to a unique and pleasing tone. Despite the differences in material, both the Ash Gray and MoonRosa offer housing options that cater to different sound preferences.
When considering the overall impact of housing materials on a switch, it's important to note that the top and bottom housings each play a significant role in the sound and feel of the switch. The qualities of the bottom housing will influence the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing will impact the sound when releasing a key. While the Ash Gray and MoonRosa offer different housing materials for their top and bottom components, both switches provide a unique and customizable sound experience based on the combination of these materials. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound profile and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the KTT MoonRosa linear switch, it is clear that the Ash Gray requires slightly more force to actuate at 38 grams compared to the MoonRosa at 37 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Ash Gray is heavier at 53 grams compared to the MoonRosa at 45 grams. This means that the Ash Gray switch provides a more substantial typing experience due to its higher bottom out force, while the MoonRosa offers a lighter typing feel overall. The difference in force between the two switches gives users the opportunity to choose based on their preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience. Ultimately, the actuation and bottom out forces of the switches contribute to the overall typing feel and performance of the keyboard.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the KTT MoonRosa linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. This allows for a consistent typing experience regardless of which switch you choose. With both switches having the same travel distance, users can expect similar results in terms of key feel and actuation. Overall, the travel distance of both the Ash Gray tactile switch and the MoonRosa linear switch is equal, providing a consistent typing experience for users.
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 MoonRosa comes in at $4.88 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
When it comes to sound, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for most users, whether they are beginners or advanced typists. On the other hand, the KTT MoonRosa linear switch provides a low-pitched sound that is more bass-heavy and mellow in tone. Both switches offer pleasant typing experiences, but the Ash Gray might be more versatile in various environments due to its neutral sound.
In terms of feel, both the Ash Gray and MoonRosa switches are described as easy-to-press and mild, providing a gentle typing experience with minimal force required for key presses. This light actuation force enhances typing comfort and reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions. The switches' qualities fall within a safe middle-ground zone, making them approachable to most users. Overall, both switches offer responsive and low-impact typing feels that prioritize user comfort.
In conclusion, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the KTT MoonRosa linear switch each have their own unique sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences. While the Ash Gray offers a neutral sound and a blend of tactile feedback, the MoonRosa provides a low-pitched sound and a smooth typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences in sound, feel, and typing experience. However, both switches are designed to enhance the typing experience and provide users with a satisfying mechanical keyboarding experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the KTT MoonRosa linear switch, consider your preference for bottom-out force and typing experience. If you prefer a medium-light bottom-out force and a tactile switch with a crisp actuation, opt for the Ash Gray. This switch offers a delightful blend of tactile feedback that is not too overwhelming. On the other hand, if you prefer a light bottom-out force and a buttery smooth typing experience with a neutral sound signature, the MoonRosa is the way to go. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal typing style and preference for either tactile or linear switches.
Mentioned in this article
