KTT Ash Gray vs. Outemu Lotus
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the Outemu Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch to the Outemu Lotus linear switch, it's clear that both offer unique features to suit different preferences. The Ash Gray is praised for its tactile response that strikes a balance between being noticeable and subtle, providing a satisfying feedback without being overwhelming. On the other hand, the Lotus switch doesn't have a distinct feature it's known for, categorized simply as linear. While the Ash Gray is ideal for those who prefer an easy-to-press and mild tactile experience, the Lotus may appeal to those seeking a straightforward linear switch. 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
35g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The KTT Ash Gray and the Outemu Lotus both feature nylon bottom housings, which give them a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. However, the Ash Gray has a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate's stiffness allows for a more clear and resonant sound, making keystrokes more distinct and precise compared to the Lotus's nylon top housing.
While both the Ash Gray and the Lotus use nylon for their bottom housings, they differ in their top housing material. The Ash Gray utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, leading to a more sharp and clear sound profile. On the other hand, the Lotus features a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound. This contrast in housing materials gives each switch a unique sound profile, catering to different preferences based on sound preferences. Despite this difference, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience with the softness of nylon in the bottom housing.
The split between the top and bottom housing materials of the Ash Gray and the Lotus affects the overall sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing's impact is more pronounced in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing has a greater influence on the sound when releasing the key. This division of qualities between the top and bottom housings highlights how the choice of materials can significantly impact the overall typing experience. Whether it's the stiffer polycarbonate of the Ash Gray or the softer nylon of the Lotus, each housing material plays a crucial role in shaping the sound and feel of the switch.
Weight
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch both have relatively light actuation and bottom out forces compared to other switches on the market. The Ash Gray has a slightly heavier actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, providing a medium-light typing experience. In contrast, the Lotus has a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it even lighter to type on. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions, the Lotus may be the better option. However, for those who prefer a bit more resistance for a more tactile typing experience, the Ash Gray would be the way to go. Ultimately, both switches offer similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable choices for different preferences.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch is 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Lotus linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. The Ash Gray may provide a bit more depth in the keystroke compared to the Lotus, which some users may prefer for a more substantial feel. However, those looking for a more responsive and quick key press may lean towards the Lotus with its slightly shorter travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference 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 Lotus 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 Ash Gray switch offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for various typing environments, making it a versatile option for both beginners and experienced users alike. On the other hand, information about the sound profile of the Outemu Lotus switch is unavailable. It is important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Ash Gray switch provides an easy-to-press experience with minimal force required for actuation, resulting in a comfortable typing feel that reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Additionally, it offers a mild tactile feedback that falls in a comfortable middle-ground zone, suitable for a wide range of users. Unfortunately, details regarding the feel of the Outemu Lotus switch are not provided.
Considering the available information, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch seems to offer a pleasant tactile feedback with a light touch and crisp actuation, producing a neutral sound profile that is suitable for most users. Its easy-to-press feel and mild characteristics make it a versatile option for various typing needs. While details about the Outemu Lotus switch are lacking, it is safe to assume that it may provide a different typing experience compared to the Ash Gray switch. Ultimately, the best way to determine the right switch for you is to try out both options and see which one aligns better with your preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a tactile response that is substantial yet unobtrusive, the Ash Gray switch would be a great choice for you. This switch offers a delightful blend of tactile feedback without being overwhelming. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a switch that is easy-to-press with minimal force required for activation, the Lotus linear switch might be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for bottom out force, tactile feedback, and typing experience.
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