KTT Ash Gray vs. Cherry MX Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the Cherry MX Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Ash Gray and Cherry MX Speed Silver offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Ash Gray switch is praised for its tactile response, striking a balance between a light touch and crisp actuation, providing a pleasant tactile feedback without being overwhelming. On the other hand, the MX Speed Silver stands out for its linear action and low spring resistance, offering instant triggering for maximum speed, making it ideal for gamers seeking lightning-fast response times. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Although the KTT Ash Gray and the Cherry MX Speed Silver both use nylon for their bottom housing, the Ash Gray utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing while the MX Speed Silver sticks with nylon. This creates a difference in sound profiles, with the Ash Gray offering a sharper, higher-pitched sound due to polycarbonate's stiffness, while the MX Speed Silver produces a deeper and fuller sound because of nylon's absorption properties. In terms of aesthetics, the Ash Gray's polycarbonate top housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switch.
In contrast, both the Ash Gray and the MX Speed Silver share the use of nylon for their bottom housing, resulting in a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. However, the Ash Gray's polycarbonate top housing offers a crisper and more resonant sound compared to the MX Speed Silver's nylon top housing, which creates a duller and rounder sound. The choice of housing materials in each switch ultimately impacts the overall sound and feel of typing, catering to different preferences based on sound preference and keypress experience.
Overall, the choice between the KTT Ash Gray and the Cherry MX Speed Silver will come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing experience. Those who prefer a sharper, higher-pitched sound with resonant qualities may lean towards the KTT Ash Gray with its polycarbonate top housing, while individuals who enjoy a deeper and fuller sound with a softer feel may find the Cherry MX Speed Silver more to their liking due to its nylon top housing. Both switches offer a quality typing experience, with the difference in housing materials contributing to distinct sound profiles and tactile feedback.
Weight
The comparison between the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch shows a difference in weight. The Ash Gray has a higher actuation force of 38 grams compared to the MX Speed Silver's 30 grams, making the Ash Gray a bit heavier. However, the bottom out force of the Ash Gray is also higher at 53 grams, while the MX Speed Silver's bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Ash Gray switch requires more force to fully press down compared to the MX Speed Silver. In terms of weight preference, those who enjoy a lighter touch may prefer the MX Speed Silver for longer typing or gaming sessions, while those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the heavier Ash Gray switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches are on the shorter end of the spectrum when compared to traditional switches with a 4.0 mm travel distance. Gamers may prefer the Cherry MX Speed Silver for its slightly faster response time due to its shorter travel distance, while the KTT Ash Gray may appeal to those seeking a bit more depth in their key presses. Overall, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance that may provide a quick and responsive typing 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 Cherry MX Speed Silver has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Speed Silver for $4.00.
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, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch produces a thocky, low-pitched sound that is deep and satisfying, especially favored by gamers. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the KTT Ash Gray switch offers an easy-to-press experience with gentle resistance, requiring minimal force to activate. This makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. The switch also provides a mild typing experience that falls in a safe, middle-ground zone. In contrast, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch is textured, which means it may have noticeable friction when pressed. Some users may prefer this tactile feedback, while others may prefer a smoother, friction-free typing experience.
Considering all the available information, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch excels in providing a light touch with a crisp actuation for a delightful tactile feedback experience. Its neutral sound profile and easy-to-press feel make it a versatile option suitable for various users. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch is designed for maximum speed and rapid response, making it ideal for gamers looking for instant triggering. With its thocky, low-pitched sound and textured feel, the MX Speed Silver offers a different typing experience compared to the Ash Gray. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, consider the type of feedback and sound you prefer. If you prioritize a tactile response with a light touch and crisp actuation, the Ash Gray switch is a great choice. It offers a moderate sound profile and easy-to-press feel, making it suitable for various typing preferences. On the other hand, if you seek maximum speed and instant triggering for gaming purposes, the MX Speed Silver with its linear action and low spring resistance may be more ideal. It provides a thocky, low-pitched sound and a textured feel for those who prefer a different typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your specific preferences and intended use for the keyboard switches.
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