KTT Ash Gray vs. Outemu Silent Grey
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the Outemu Silent Grey switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Ash Gray and the Outemu Silent Grey mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to consider the unique features of each switch. The Ash Gray switch is known for providing a tactile response that strikes a balance between being noticeable and subtle, offering a light touch and crisp actuation. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Grey switch offers a quiet typing experience with a pronounced bump and smooth keystroke. While the Ash Gray switch is categorized as 'Easy-to-press', 'Mild', 'Neutral', the Silent Grey switch does not have specific categories listed. Ultimately, 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The main difference between the housing materials of the KTT Ash Gray and the Outemu Silent Grey switches lies in their top housing materials. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is known for being a relatively stiff plastic, leading to a clear and resonant sound. This material is also useful for switches that incorporate RGB lighting due to its translucency. Therefore, in terms of sound profile and aesthetics, the Ash Gray and Silent Grey switches offer similar results with their polycarbonate top housings.
In contrast, the bottom housing materials of the Ash Gray and Silent Grey switches also play a significant role in the overall typing experience. The Ash Gray features a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Similarly, the Silent Grey switch also includes a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. The bottom housing material impacts the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, contributing to the overall typing experience.
Overall, the different housing materials used in the Ash Gray and Silent Grey switches showcase how each material can affect the sound profile and typing experience. While both switches share a polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and clear sound profile, the nylon bottom housing in each switch provides a deeper and fuller sound. These differences in housing materials highlight the importance of considering both the top and bottom housing materials in determining the overall feel and sound of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch have differing actuation and bottom out forces. The Ash Gray has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 53 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Grey has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial push feel for typing. Those who enjoy a stronger typing experience may lean towards the Silent Grey switch. Overall, the Ash Gray is lighter in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, while the Silent Grey is heavier, offering different typing experiences to cater to individual preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, it is clear that the Ash Gray has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Silent Grey's 4 mm travel distance. This means that the Ash Gray will provide a quicker response time while typing or gaming, which may be preferred by those looking for faster reactions. On the other hand, the Silent Grey offers a slightly deeper press, which may be favored by those who prefer a more substantial key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance, with the Ash Gray being the shorter option and the Silent Grey offering a longer travel distance.
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 Silent Grey 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 switch is considered to have a neutral profile, making it suitable for a variety of environments and users. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Grey switch is designed specifically to provide a quiet typing experience, perfect for those who prioritize noise reduction without compromising on tactile feedback. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles tailored to different preferences, ensuring that users can choose based on their specific needs.
Regarding feel, the KTT Ash Gray switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, offering minimal resistance during key presses for a comfortable typing experience. Additionally, the switch is described as having a mild tactile feel, appealing to a wide range of users. In contrast, information about the tactile feel of the Outemu Silent Grey switch is not provided. However, given that it is marketed as a highly tactile switch, users can expect a pronounced tactile bump with a smooth keystroke for a satisfying typing experience.
In conclusion, the KTT Ash Gray switch is ideal for those seeking a tactile response that is noticeable yet gentle, with a moderate sound profile that suits various settings. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Grey switch caters to individuals looking for a quiet typing experience without sacrificing tactile feedback. Ultimately, both switches have their own strengths and are suitable options depending on the user's preferences for sound and feel. Users can expect a high-quality typing experience with either switch, tailored to their specific needs and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, tactile feedback, sound, and feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a tactile response that is not too overwhelming, the Ash Gray switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a heavier bottom out force and a more pronounced tactile bump, the Silent Grey switch might suit your preferences more. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the specific typing experience you are seeking.
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