KTT Ash Gray vs. Durock Piano
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the Durock Piano switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the KTT Ash Gray, a tactile switch, and the Durock Piano, a linear switch. The Ash Gray switch is designed to provide a tactile response that is both substantial yet unobtrusive, offering a light touch and crisp actuation. With its delightful blend of tactile feedback, it is easy to press, has a mild feel, and provides a neutral experience. On the other hand, the Durock Piano switch stands out for its proprietary material blend, resulting in a pleasant and smooth typing experience. It offers a gliding push feel and a deep, creamy sound signature. Categorized as bassy, frictionless, and silky, the Piano switch provides a distinct experience compared to the Ash Gray. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision on the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Mystery material
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The KTT Ash Gray and the Durock Piano differ in their choice of housing materials, particularly in the top and bottom housing components. The Ash Gray features a polycarbonate top housing, which offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which enhances clarity and resonance. In contrast, the Piano utilizes a proprietary POM blend top housing that provides a uniquely satisfying and deep sound profile. Although the exact details of this blend are unknown, it promises a sound experience that is distinct from the polycarbonate top housing of the Ash Gray.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Ash Gray incorporates a nylon material, a classic choice known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller yet rounder sound. Conversely, the Durock Piano employs a proprietary POM blend for its bottom housing. While specifics about this blend are undisclosed, similar to its top housing, it is expected to deliver a deep and satisfying sound profile. Thus, both switches prioritize sound quality, albeit with different housing materials and characteristics.
When comparing the two switches, it is important to consider the impact of each housing material on the overall typing experience. The bottom housing of a switch, such as the one used in the Ash Gray, significantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. In contrast, the top housing, like the one found in the Piano, plays a more prominent role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, while the housing materials may differ between the KTT Ash Gray and the Durock Piano, they each contribute distinct qualities to the typing and sound experience, ensuring that users can find a switch that suits their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Durock Piano linear switch, one noticeable difference lies in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Ash Gray switch has an actuation force of 38 grams, while the Piano switch's actuation force is unknown. However, the Ash Gray switch has a bottom out force of 53 grams, whereas the Piano switch has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it heavier.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Ash Gray switch would be a suitable choice. With its lower actuation and bottom out forces, this switch allows for extended periods of typing without causing much strain. On the other hand, if a user seeks a more substantial and pronounced keystroke, the Piano switch would be a better option. Its higher bottom out force provides a stronger push feel, resulting in a more satisfying typing experience.
Considering weight is important when selecting a switch as it can greatly impact one's typing comfort. Those who desire a lighter switch may opt for the Ash Gray, especially for use in work or gaming scenarios that require prolonged typing sessions. Conversely, individuals who enjoy a heavier switch may find the Piano more suitable, as it offers a greater force to ensure a more substantial keystroke.
While the actuation force for the Piano switch is unavailable, it is noted that both switches fall within the medium weight range. Therefore, if the actuation forces were to be compared, they would likely yield similar results. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on individual preference for typing experience and personal comfort during extended keyboard usage.
Travel distance
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Durock Piano linear switch have different travel distances. The Ash Gray has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Piano has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of distance, the Ash Gray is the shorter option, providing a quicker and more responsive keystroke. This is ideal for gamers who value speed and fast response times. On the other hand, the Piano with its longer travel distance offers a deeper and more satisfying key press for those who prefer a more substantial feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
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 Durock Piano has an MSRP of $6.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Piano for $5.57.
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 tactile switch has a neutral sound profile. This means that it produces a moderate level of sound during key presses, making it suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, or if you plan to use it at home or work. On the other hand, the Durock Piano linear switch has a bassy sound profile. It offers a deeper and richer sound with a lower frequency range, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch provides an easy-to-press experience. It offers gentle resistance during key presses, requiring minimal force to activate the keys. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Additionally, the Ash Gray switch has a mild typing experience, meaning it offers a gentle and approachable feel that suits most users.
On the other hand, the Durock Piano linear switch offers a frictionless and silky typing experience. It provides an extremely smooth and effortless feel when pressing the keys, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction. This enhances the overall smoothness of the typing feel and makes for a comfortable typing experience.
In conclusion, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Durock Piano linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ash Gray switch provides a neutral sound profile and an easy-to-press, mild typing experience. On the other hand, the Piano switch has a bassy sound profile and offers a frictionless, silky typing feel. Depending on your preferences and needs, you can choose between these switches to achieve the desired sound and feel for your mechanical keyboard. Keep in mind that other factors such as keyboard board and keycaps can also influence the overall experience.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are seeking a mechanical keyboard switch that provides a tactile response without being overwhelming, then the KTT Ash Gray switch is an excellent choice. With its medium-light bottom out force of 53 grams, it offers a light touch and crisp actuation that is both substantial and unobtrusive. The Ash Gray switch delivers a delightful blend of tactile feedback that is noticeable without feeling sandy or uncomfortable on your fingertips.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and effortless typing experience, the Durock Piano linear switch is the way to go. With a medium-heavy bottom out force of 63.5 grams, this switch offers a gliding push feel and a deep, creamy sound signature. The proprietary material blend used in the Piano switch makes it one of the most pleasant linear switches to type on.
When it comes to sound, the Ash Gray switch is known for its neutral profile, which makes it suitable for both beginners and advanced users in various settings. On the other hand, the Piano switch provides a bassy sound profile with a lower frequency range, offering a rich and deep tone during key presses.
In terms of feel, the Ash Gray switch is easy-to-press, requiring minimal force to activate and providing a low-impact typing experience. It is also described as mild, striking a safe middle ground that is approachable for most users. On the other hand, the Piano switch offers a frictionless and silky typing experience, with minimal resistance and an exceptionally smooth feel when pressing and releasing keys.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Durock Piano linear switch depends on your preferences and priorities. If you value a tactile response with a lighter touch, go for the Ash Gray switch. If you prioritize a smooth and effortless typing experience, the Piano switch is the better option.
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