KTT Ash Gray vs. Haimu Neo White
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the Haimu Neo White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Ash Gray and Haimu Neo White offer unique characteristics to suit different preferences. The Ash Gray, a tactile switch, is praised for its light touch combined with a substantial yet unobtrusive tactile response, providing a delightful blend of feedback that is not overwhelming. On the other hand, the Neo White, a linear switch, features a medium weight and slightly reduced total travel, offering a smooth and satisfying typing experience thanks to its unique Ly stem design. While the Ash Gray is categorized as 'Easy-to-press' and 'Mild', the Neo White falls under 'Mild' and 'Neutral'. Both switches have their own strengths and advantages depending on individual preferences. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
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
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
The KTT Ash Gray and the Haimu Neo White both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate. This material is ideal for switches that will be used with RGB lighting, as its translucency allows the light to shine through. Additionally, both switches use nylon for their bottom housings, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. However, the Ash Gray's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the Neo White.
While the top housings of the Ash Gray and Neo White are both made of polycarbonate, the difference in their bottom housings affects the overall sound and feel of the switches. The split between the qualities of the bottom and top housing materials means that the impact of each material is felt differently when typing. The nylon bottom housing of the Ash Gray contributes to the bottom-out sound and feel, while the polycarbonate top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. On the other hand, the Neo White's combination of polycarbonate and nylon in its top and bottom housings results in a similar split of qualities.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the KTT Ash Gray and the Haimu Neo White play a significant role in the sound profile and feel of each switch. While both feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharper and crisper sound, the difference in their nylon bottom housings leads to variations in sound depth and fullness. Understanding how each material interacts with the switch components can help users choose the option that best suits their typing preferences and aesthetic preferences, whether they prioritize clear and resonant sounds or deeper and fuller tones.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch, the Ash Gray has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams compared to the Neo White, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Neo White has a heavier bottom out force of 58 grams, while the Ash Gray has a bottom out force of 53 grams. This makes the Neo White a better option for those who prefer a stronger push feel during typing, while the Ash Gray may be more suitable for longer typing sessions due to its lighter actuation force. Both switches offer a medium level of resistance overall, providing users with a balance between typing comfort and tactile feedback.
Travel distance
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Haimu Neo White linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, with the Neo White being slightly longer than the Ash Gray. Gamers may prefer the Ash Gray for its slightly shorter travel distance, as it can result in faster response times during gaming. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more deliberate key press may prefer the Neo White for its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to traditional switches, providing a more responsive typing experience overall.
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 Haimu Neo White comes in at $2.70 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 Haimu Neo White linear switch are described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that they have a moderate actuation force requirement and sound profile, suitable for various typing intents and purposes. The sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard itself and the keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Ash Gray switch is characterized as easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force enhances typing comfort and reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions. On the other hand, the Neo White switch is described as mild, providing a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Both switches offer a comfortable and responsive typing feel, with qualities that fall within a safe, middle-ground zone.
In conclusion, while the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch differ in their tactile and linear characteristics, they both offer a pleasant typing experience with their respective tactile feedback and smooth actuation. Whether you prefer a light touch with crisp feedback or a medium-weight, smooth keystroke, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience suitable for different preferences.Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on your personal typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch or the Haimu Neo White linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a light touch with a crisp actuation and a tactile response that's substantial yet unobtrusive, then the Ash Gray switch is the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a smooth and satisfying typing experience with a slightly reduced total travel and smooth actuation, the Neo White switch may be more suitable for your needs. Both switches offer a moderate actuation force and sound profile, making them versatile options for beginners and advanced users alike. Ultimately, the decision between the Ash Gray and Neo White switches will depend on your individual typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are seeking.
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