KTT Ash Gray vs. KTT Orange
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the KTT Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Ash Gray and KTT Orange mechanical keyboard switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Ash Gray switch is renowned for its tactile response, providing a delicate yet noticeable feedback while typing. This switch strikes a balance between a light touch and crisp actuation, ensuring a satisfying keystroke without feeling overwhelming. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switch offers a unique typing experience characterized by a bouncy feel. With a 22mm long spring and a polycarbonate milky top housing, this switch provides a frictionless and slick typing experience. Additionally, its low-pitched sound profile adds to the overall pleasantness of use. While the Ash Gray switch boasts a gentle tactile sensation, the Orange switch offers a more lively and responsive typing experience. However, let's delve deeper into these switches beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision about which switch suits you best.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
46g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The KTT Ash Gray and KTT Orange switches both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetic appeal. However, they differ in their bottom housing material. The Ash Gray switch utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon's softer nature, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Orange switch employs a polycarbonate bottom housing, which complements the top housing's characteristics by contributing to a clear and resonant sound profile.
Despite their differences, both the KTT Ash Gray and KTT Orange switches share the common feature of using polycarbonate in their top housings. This means that they both exhibit similar qualities in terms of sound profile, presenting a sharper and crisper sound when keys are released. Additionally, their translucent nature allows for vibrant RGB lighting effects. However, where they diverge is their choice of bottom housing material. The Ash Gray's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Orange's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper and more resonant sound. These distinctions highlight the importance of considering the entire switch design and the impact each housing material has on its overall sound and feel.
When comparing the KTT Ash Gray and KTT Orange switches, it is essential to understand how different housing materials affect the typing experience. The top housing, made of polycarbonate in both switches, plays a significant role in the sound when keys are released. This results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in both cases. However, the bottom housing is where the main distinction lies. The use of nylon in the Ash Gray switch creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the polycarbonate material in the Orange switch contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound. Considering these differences, individuals may have varying preferences depending on whether they prioritize a deeper sound or a crisper sound. Ultimately, these housing material choices demonstrate how even subtle variations can impact the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. In terms of weight, the Ash Gray is lighter than the Orange, with an actuation force of 38 grams. This lighter actuation force allows for smoother and faster typing, making it ideal for those who want to type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions without experiencing fatigue. The bottom out force of the Ash Gray is 53 grams, which provides a medium-light typing experience with a satisfying tactile feedback.
On the other hand, the Orange switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 46 grams, offering a more substantial push feel for those who prefer a bit more resistance in their keystrokes. While the actuation force is heavier, the bottom out force remains the same at 53 grams, making it similar to the Ash Gray in terms of overall typing experience.
Considering the weight of the switches, it ultimately depends on individual preferences and typing style. Some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Ash Gray for increased speed and ease, especially for longer typing sessions or gaming. Others who value a stronger push feel may opt for the slightly heavier actuation force of the Orange switch, as it delivers a more pronounced tactile feedback. Ultimately, both switches offer a medium-light bottom out force, ensuring a similar typing experience despite their slight differences in actuation force.
Travel distance
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the KTT Orange linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that both switches will provide similar results in terms of the distance you feel when pressing down on a key. Whether you choose the Ash Gray or the Orange switch, you can expect a consistent travel distance of 3.5 mm. Therefore, there is no difference in the travel distance between these two switches. Both switches offer the same level of tactile feedback or smooth linear movement, making them suitable for various typing preferences.
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 Orange has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange for $4.15.
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
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch is designed to provide a tactile response that is substantial and unobtrusive. It offers a light touch with a crisp actuation, resulting in a delightful blend of tactile feedback that is not overwhelming but far from unnoticed. The sound profile of the Ash Gray switch is described as neutral, with a moderate actuation force requirement. This makes it suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use the switch at home or work.
On the other hand, the KTT Orange linear switch features a low-pitched sound profile. It offers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. The Orange switch provides a slick and frictionless typing experience, thanks to its excellent factory-lubing. It features a long pole POM stem and a vivid orange nylon bottom housing for a unique look. The feel of the Orange switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation. The keys have a lively feel, with a rebound when pressed. Moreover, the switch offers a fluid and frictionless travel, resulting in an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience.
To conclude, the KTT Ash Gray and Orange switches offer distinct subjective qualities. The Ash Gray switch provides a light touch with a crisp actuation and a moderate, neutral sound profile. It offers an easy-to-press and mild typing experience, reducing finger fatigue and enhancing overall typing comfort. On the other hand, the Orange switch has a more low-pitched sound profile and provides a bouncy and frictionless typing experience. It offers a unique look with its orange nylon housing. Both switches have their own unique characteristics, providing a range of options for different preferences. However, if you are looking for a similar light touch and easy-to-press experience, the Ash Gray switch would be a good choice. Likewise, if you prefer a low-pitched sound and a bouncy, frictionless feel, the Orange switch would provide similar results. It is important to consider other factors such as your choice of board and keycaps as they can also impact the sound and feel of the switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you value a switch with a light touch and a crisp actuation, the Ash Gray is the way to go. With its tactile feedback that strikes a balance between being noticeable but not overwhelming, it offers a delightful typing experience. Additionally, the Ash Gray provides an easy-to-press and mild feel, making typing effortless and reducing finger fatigue.
On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy and frictionless typing experience, the Orange switch is the better choice. With its 22mm long spring and polycarbonate milky top housing, these switches offer a slick and spring-like feedback that gives a lively feel. The low-pitched sound profile adds to its unique typing experience, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone.
Ultimately, whether you choose the Ash Gray or the Orange switch, both options excel in their own ways. The Ash Gray is suited for a more neutral typing experience, suitable for both beginners and advanced typists, while the Orange offers a distinct bouncy and frictionless feel. Consider your personal preferences and the type of feedback and sound profile you desire, and make your decision based on what will enhance your typing experience the most.
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