KTT Ash Gray vs. Outemu Dustproof Green
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the Outemu Dustproof Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Ash Gray and the Outemu Dustproof Green offer unique experiences for users. The Ash Gray switch is praised for its tactile response that strikes the perfect balance between a light touch and a crisp actuation, providing a pleasant tactile feedback without being overwhelming. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Green switch doesn't have a specific feature to highlight, but it falls into a clicky switch category. The Ash Gray switch is ideal for those looking for an easy-to-press and mild switch, while the Dustproof Green switch may appeal to users seeking a clicky switch experience. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
The KTT Ash Gray and Outemu Dustproof Green both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. This makes them ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the visual aesthetic. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing ensures a clear and resonant sound profile. However, while both switches share this top housing material, they may differ in the sound profile due to potential variations in design or implementation.
In terms of bottom housing material, both the Ash Gray and Dustproof Green utilize nylon, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. Nylon's softer nature allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This material choice for the bottom housing ensures that the typing experience on these switches is satisfying, with a rich and pronounced sound profile. Despite sharing the same bottom housing material, the switches may still have distinct characteristics based on other design elements that impact sound and feel.
When considering the impact of housing materials on switch performance, it's important to note the division of qualities between the top and bottom housings. The bottom housing primarily influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing plays a significant role in the sound produced when a key is released. This distinction highlights how the choice of materials for different parts of the switch can have a significant impact on the overall typing experience, with each material contributing unique characteristics to the sound and feel of the switch.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch, it is evident that the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The Ash Gray has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 53 grams, providing a medium-light typing feel. In contrast, the Dustproof Green has a heavier actuation force of 65 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams, offering a more substantial typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions may opt for the Ash Gray, while individuals seeking a more robust feel may favor the Dustproof Green. Both switches provide different levels of resistance, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences for typing comfort and feedback. Ultimately, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches significantly impact the typing experience, catering to a variety of user preferences.
Travel distance
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Dustproof Green clicky switch has a longer travel distance compared to the Ash Gray tactile switch. The Ash Gray switch falls into the category of shorter travel distances, which is favored by gamers for quicker response times. On the other hand, the Dustproof Green switch provides a deeper key press experience with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a quicker, more responsive key press or a deeper, more deliberate keystroke.
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 Dustproof Green 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
When it comes to sound, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch offers a neutral profile that is suitable for a wide range of users, whether they are beginners or experienced typists. This switch provides a moderate actuation force requirement and sound profile, making it versatile for various typing environments. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch's sound profile is unknown, so it is hard to directly compare the two in this aspect.
Moving on to feel, the Ash Gray switch is known for its easy-to-press nature, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This results in a typing experience that is effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Additionally, the Ash Gray switch provides a mild typing experience, appealing to a wide range of users with its approachable sound and feel. Unfortunately, information on the feel of the Dustproof Green switch is not available for comparison.
In conclusion, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch excels in providing a tactile response that strikes a balance between being noticeable yet not overwhelming. It offers a neutral sound profile and an easy-to-press, mild typing experience, making it a versatile option for both beginners and experienced users. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Green switch lacks information on its sound and feel qualities, making it difficult to directly compare with the Ash Gray switch. For those looking for a reliable and versatile switch, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch would be a solid choice to consider.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when considering whether to choose the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch or the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch, it is important to take into account the level of actuation force you prefer. If you prefer a lighter touch with a moderate tactile feedback, then the Ash Gray switch with a 53 gram bottom out force would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a heavier actuation force with a clicky feedback, the Outemu Dustproof Green switch with an 80 gram bottom out force would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking for.
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