KTT Ash Gray vs. KTT Purple Star
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the KTT Purple Star switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Ash Gray switch and the KTT Purple Star switch offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches. The Ash Gray switch is a tactile switch, designed to provide a satisfying tactile response without being too overwhelming, making it a good choice for those who enjoy a light touch with crisp actuation. On the other hand, the Purple Star switch is a linear switch known for its smooth typing experience and light 45g bottom-out, making it ideal for those who prefer a quieter, easy-to-press option. Both switches have their own strengths and qualities that make them appealing options for keyboard enthusiasts. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The KTT Ash Gray and the KTT Purple Star both use unique housing materials for their switches, with the Ash Gray featuring a polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, while the Purple Star uses a POM top housing and POM bottom housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Ash Gray creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, ideal for those who prefer a more resonant typing experience. In contrast, the POM top housing of the Purple Star produces a deeper and more muted sound, providing a unique typing sensation that may appeal to a different set of users.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Ash Gray's nylon bottom housing and the Purple Star's POM bottom housing contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The nylon bottom housing of the Ash Gray absorbs more sound due to its softer plastic composition, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the POM bottom housing of the Purple Star adds to the overall deep and muted sound profile of the switch, enhancing the typing experience for users who prefer a softer sound when typing.
Overall, both the KTT Ash Gray and the KTT Purple Star offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials. While the Ash Gray provides a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate top housing, the Purple Star offers a deeper and more muted sound with its POM top housing. Similarly, both switches deliver a deep and full sound experience with their bottom housing materials, with the Ash Gray using nylon and the Purple Star using POM. Depending on individual preferences for sound and typing feel, users can choose between these two switches to find the one that best suits their needs.
Weight
In comparing the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The Ash Gray switch has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it medium-light in terms of force required. In contrast, the Purple Star switch has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating a lighter touch. The Ash Gray switch provides a slightly lighter actuation force but a heavier bottom out force compared to the Purple Star switch. This means that while typing on the Ash Gray switch may feel lighter initially, the bottoming out experience will be heavier than that of the Purple Star switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing experience - whether one prefers a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or a more substantial feel for a satisfying keystroke.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same amount of travel from the top to the bottom. The tactile and linear aspects of the switches may provide a different typing experience, but in terms of travel distance, both switches offer a consistent feel. Therefore, whether you choose the Ash Gray or Purple Star, you can expect similar results in terms of 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 KTT Purple Star comes in at $4.88 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
In terms of sound, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for a variety of settings and preferences, making it a versatile option for both beginners and advanced users. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star linear switch provides a low-pitched sound that is characterized by a bass-heavy and mellow tone, offering a unique auditory experience. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, both the Ash Gray and Purple Star switches offer easy-to-press characteristics, providing a gentle typing experience with minimal force required for activation. This light actuation force not only makes typing effortless and comfortable but also helps reduce finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Additionally, both switches are described as mild, offering a more approachable tactile experience that is neither too pronounced nor too subtle, striking a balanced middle-ground zone that appeals to a wide range of users.
Overall, while the KTT Ash Gray and Purple Star switches may differ in sound characteristics, they both share similarities in terms of feel, providing users with an easy-to-press and mild typing experience. Depending on your personal preferences and typing style, either switch can offer a satisfying tactile feedback that enhances your overall typing experience. Whether you opt for the neutral sound of the Ash Gray or the low-pitched tone of the Purple Star, you can expect similar levels of comfort and responsiveness from both switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, consider your typing style and preference for actuation force. If you prefer a medium-light tactile switch with a crisp actuation, opt for the Ash Gray. This switch offers a pleasant blend of tactile feedback without being overwhelming. On the other hand, if you prefer a light linear switch with a buttery smooth typing experience, the Purple Star is the way to go. With its very light bottom-out force, it provides ease and comfort for light typists. Ultimately, your choice should align with your typing preference and the type of typing experience you are looking for.
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