KTT Ash Gray vs. Outemu Blue
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the Outemu Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Ash Gray and the Outemu Blue offer distinct characteristics for different typing experiences. The Ash Gray switch is renowned for its tactile response, providing a satisfying feedback without being too overwhelming. In contrast, the Outemu Blue switch is a clicky switch that offers a more audible typing experience. The Ash Gray is described as 'Easy-to-press', 'Mild', 'Neutral', while the Blue switch does not have specific categorizations. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different 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
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Ash Gray and Outemu Blue switches, both switches use polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing also allows for RGB lighting to shine through due to its translucency. However, the Ash Gray switch features a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Blue switch's polycarbonate bottom housing. This means that typing on the Ash Gray switch will have a different sound and feel compared to typing on the Outemu Blue switch.
While both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, the difference in their bottom housing materials affects the overall sound and feel of typing on each switch. The Ash Gray switch with its nylon bottom housing will have a duller and rounder sound, absorbing more sound than the stiffer polycarbonate bottom housing of the Outemu Blue switch. This results in a different typing experience for users of each switch, with the Ash Gray providing a deeper sound profile compared to the crisper sound of the Blue switch.
In terms of impact on typing experience, the bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of a switch, while the top housing material affects the sound when a key is released. Therefore, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon housing in the Ash Gray switch creates a unique typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Outemu Blue switch offers a sharper and crisper sound due to its uniform polycarbonate housing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for sound and feel during typing.
Weight
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Outemu Blue clicky switch. The Ash Gray requires 38 grams to actuate and 53 grams to bottom out, making it a medium-light switch. In contrast, the Blue switch needs 50 grams to actuate, but information on its bottom out force is unavailable. In terms of weight, some users may prefer the lighter Ash Gray switch for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may prefer the heavier Blue switch for a more substantial typing experience. Overall, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces between the two switches offer users options based on their personal preference for keypress feel.
Travel distance
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the Outemu Blue clicky switch's 4 mm travel distance. The shorter travel distance of the Ash Gray may provide a faster response time, which is preferred by gamers looking for quick reactions. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Outemu Blue clicky switch may offer a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper actuation. Both switches offer different typing experiences based on their travel distance, so choosing between the two will depend on personal preferences for key feel and responsiveness.
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 Outemu Blue comes in at $3.10 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, the KTT Ash Gray switch offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for a wide range of uses, whether you are a beginner or advanced user. It has a moderate actuation force requirement, leading to a moderate sound profile that is not too loud or too soft. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue switch's sound profile is unknown, but keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to feel, the KTT Ash Gray switch is praised for being easy-to-press, requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force provides a comfortable typing experience that reduces finger fatigue during prolonged use. Additionally, the Ash Gray switch offers a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users, with its qualities falling into a safe middle-ground zone. As for the Outemu Blue switch, the feel is unspecified.
Taking all available information into account, it is evident that the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch excels in providing a tactile response that strikes a balance between subtlety and distinctiveness. With a light touch and crisp actuation, this switch offers a delightful blend of tactile feedback that enhances the typing experience. While the sound profile of the Ash Gray switch is described as neutral and suitable for various purposes, the feel is easy-to-press and mild, making it a comfortable choice for extended use. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue clicky switch lacks detailed information on both sound and feel, making it difficult to make a direct comparison. Nevertheless, based on the characteristics of the Ash Gray switch, users can expect a tactile experience with a moderate actuation force and a moderate sound profile.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch or the Outemu Blue clicky switch, it really depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prefer a switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a tactile response that is both noticeable yet gentle, the Ash Gray switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a clicky sound and a light actuation force, the Outemu Blue switch might be the better option. Ultimately, it all comes down to what type of typing experience you are looking for, whether it be a subtle tactile feedback with the Ash Gray or a more audible and clicky typing experience with the Outemu Blue. Consider your preferences in terms of key feel, sound, and actuation force to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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