KTT Ash Gray vs. Durock POM T1 (Sunflower)
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Ash Gray and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) are both popular mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique advantages for users. The Ash Gray provides a tactile response that is both substantial and unobtrusive, striking a perfect balance between a light touch and a crisp actuation. The tactile feedback it offers is noticeable yet not overwhelming, resulting in a pleasant typing experience. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) switch is ideal for those seeking maximum tactility. With its sharp tactility and satisfying clean clack, typing on these switches is a truly invigorating experience. While the Ash Gray is categorized as easy-to-press, mild, and neutral, the POM T1 (Sunflower) switch is known for being resonant, neutral, sharp, accented, snappy, and invigorating. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Proprietary
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
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 POM T1 (Sunflower) have different materials for their top housings. The Ash Gray utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. It is a stiffer plastic, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, polycarbonate is translucent, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) features a POM top housing, which produces an incredibly pleasing and unique sound. The sound profile of POM is deeper and relatively more muted compared to polycarbonate.
When it comes to the bottom housings, both switches have different materials as well. The Ash Gray incorporates a nylon bottom housing, which offers a classic switch housing material. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon being a softer plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the POM T1 (Sunflower) utilizes a POM bottom housing, which also contributes to an incredibly pleasing and unique sound profile that is deep and relatively muted.
Although the top and bottom housings differ between the KTT Ash Gray and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower), they both share similar characteristics in terms of sound profiles. Both switches produce pleasing and unique sounds, although the Ash Gray's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound compared to the POM T1's deeper and more muted sound. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the Ash Gray and the POM bottom housing of the POM T1 both contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Ultimately, depending on personal preferences, either switch can provide a satisfactory and enjoyable typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, there are noticeable differences. The KTT Ash Gray has an actuation force of 38 grams, providing a medium-light touch to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the actuation force of the POM T1 (Sunflower) is unknown, making it difficult to directly compare. However, the KTT Ash Gray's bottom out force of 53 grams suggests a slightly heavier typing experience compared to the POM T1's bottom out force of 67 grams, which is classified as medium-heavy. Those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions may gravitate towards the KTT Ash Gray, while those seeking a more substantial keystroke experience may find the Durock POM T1 preferable. Overall, considering weight is essential, as it can greatly impact typing comfort and endurance.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, there is a difference of 0.5 mm. The Ash Gray has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the POM T1 has a travel distance of 4 mm. Generally, a travel distance of 4.0 mm is considered the most traditional, while 3.0 mm is the most shallow. However, shorter travel distances have gained popularity, particularly among gamers who prioritize fast response times. If you prefer a more responsive feel, the Ash Gray with its shorter travel distance would be the suitable option. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper key press, the POM T1 with its longer travel distance would be the better choice. Ultimately, the decision depends on personal preference and whether you prioritize speed or a more satisfying keystroke depth.
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 POM T1 (Sunflower) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the POM T1 (Sunflower) 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
When it comes to sound, the KTT Ash Gray switch is described as neutral. This means it has a moderate actuation force requirement and produces a moderate sound profile. This makes it suitable for various purposes, whether you're a beginner or an advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or at work. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switch offers a resonant sound profile. When typing on these switches, you can expect a higher-pitched sound that provides a clean and sharp auditory experience. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Ash Gray switch is known for being easy to press. It offers gentle resistance during key presses, requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended use. Overall, it provides a responsive and low-impact typing feel. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) switch is described as sharp and accented. It offers a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be felt distinctly with each keypress. It provides a medium amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Additionally, it is considered snappy and invigorating, offering a super responsive and immersive typing sensation.
Considering all the available information, the Ash Gray switch and the POM T1 (Sunflower) switch have distinct subjective qualities. The Ash Gray switch offers a tactile response that is substantial yet unobtrusive, with a light touch and crisp actuation. It provides a blend of tactile feedback that is not overwhelming, creating a delightful typing experience. In terms of sound, it has a neutral profile that is suitable for most purposes. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) switch delivers maximum tactility with a sharp and clean clack. It provides an immersive auditory experience and a medium amount of tactility. It is snappy and invigorating, making typing feel alive. Therefore, if you prefer a lighter and more subtle tactile experience with a neutral sound, the Ash Gray switch is a great choice. If you're after a sharper and more pronounced tactile experience with a resonant sound, the POM T1 (Sunflower) switch would be the way to go.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a light touch and crisp actuation, the KTT Ash Gray is your best choice. It offers a delightful blend of tactile feedback that is not too overwhelming but far from unnoticed. With its easy-to-press feel, it provides a low-impact and comfortable typing experience, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The Ash Gray also produces a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or work.
On the other hand, if maximum tactility is what you desire, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) is the switch for you. It offers a sharp and accented tactile bump that can be felt distinctly with each keypress. This switch provides a satisfying clean clack and a resonant sound profile, immersing you in an auditory experience. The POM T1 (Sunflower) also offers a moderate actuation force, making it suitable for various typing needs.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Ash Gray and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) depends on your preference for the level of tactility, sound profile, and actuation force. Each switch offers its own unique characteristics to enhance your typing experience.
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