KTT Ash Gray vs. Kailh Sage
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the Kailh Sage switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options are the KTT Ash Gray and the Kailh Sage. The Ash Gray switch is praised for its tactile response, offering a light touch combined with a crisp actuation. This switch provides a delightful blend of tactile feedback without being overwhelming, making it perfect for those who prefer a more subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the Sage switch is known for its distinct clicky typing experience. With a heavier weight and a refreshingly sharp clickiness, this switch appeals to those who enjoy a more invigorating and crunchy feel while typing. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Comparing the KTT Ash Gray and the Kailh Sage, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound, making it a desirable option for those seeking a distinct auditory experience. Furthermore, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the aesthetic appeal and customization potential of the switch. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound quality and visual impact when using either the Ash Gray or the Sage.
On the other hand, the bottom housing of the Ash Gray is made of nylon, while the Sage also employs nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. Its softer nature allows for increased sound absorption compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Consequently, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. For both the Ash Gray and the Sage, users can enjoy a typing experience that generates a satisfying and rich auditory feedback.
Overall, while both the Ash Gray and the Sage share similar qualities due to their polycarbonate top housings, the switch experience may differ slightly when it comes to the bottom housing. The Ash Gray's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Sage's nylon bottom housing provides a similar effect. These subtle differences can impact the overall sound experience when using the respective switches. However, in terms of the release sound, the sound produced when letting go of a key, the top housing will have a more significant influence regardless of which switch is chosen.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, there are notable differences in their weights. The Ash Gray has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a medium-light switch. On the other hand, the Sage's actuation force is unknown, but it has a bottom out force of 70 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy.
Considering weight is important for various reasons. Some users prefer a lighter switch as it allows for extended periods of typing without fatigue, making it ideal for keyboards used at work or for long gaming sessions. These individuals would benefit from the Ash Gray switch, as its lighter actuation and bottom out forces provide a smoother typing experience.
Conversely, others appreciate the sensation of a stronger push during typing as it offers a more substantial and tactile experience. These users may find the heavier bottom out force of the Sage switch to be more satisfying.
In terms of actuation force, the specific value for the Sage switch is not provided, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison. However, if the actuation force for both switches were the same or similar, users would obtain comparable results in terms of triggering a keystroke.
Ultimately, the decision between the Ash Gray and Sage switches depends on the individual's preferences. Those seeking a lighter typing experience may gravitate towards the Ash Gray, while those desiring a heavier and more substantial feel may find the Sage to be a more suitable choice.
Travel distance
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch have slightly different travel distances. The Ash Gray has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Sage has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This may seem like a very small difference, but for those who pay attention to every detail, it could make a noticeable impact. If you prefer a switch with a shorter travel distance, the Ash Gray may be the better option for you. This can be beneficial for gamers who require faster response times, as the shorter travel distance allows for quicker button presses. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more substantial feeling when pressing down on a key, the Sage with its slightly longer travel distance may be more suitable. Some individuals find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt, while others appreciate the responsiveness it provides. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable to you during typing or gaming sessions.
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 Kailh Sage comes in at $6.25 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 described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making it suitable for most purposes. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage switch is known for its crunchy sound, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Ash Gray switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature. It offers gentle resistance during key presses, requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force contributes to effortless and comfortable typing, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The overall typing experience is enhanced by its responsive and low-impact feel. Additionally, the Ash Gray switch is described as having a mild typing experience, falling in the safe middle-ground zone that most users would find approachable.
On the other hand, the Kailh Sage switch offers an invigorating feel. It provides pronounced feedback, a moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive sensation with each keypress. The Sage switch is known for its sharp tactile bump, delivering a strong and crisp feel that can be distinctly felt with every press.
In conclusion, the KTT Ash Gray and Kailh Sage switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ash Gray switch provides a moderate sound profile and an easy-to-press, gentle typing experience, while the Sage switch offers a crunchy sound and an invigorating, sharp tactile feel. Depending on your preferences, you can choose the switch that suits your desired typing experience. If you're looking for similar results, the Ash Gray switch provides a pleasant blend of tactile feedback without being overwhelming, while the Sage switch offers a distinct clicky typing experience with a heavy weight and sharp clickiness.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a crisp actuation, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch would be a great option for you. With its delightful blend of tactile feedback, this switch offers a substantial yet unobtrusive touch. It is also described as easy-to-press and mild, providing a low-impact and comfortable typing experience. Additionally, the Ash Gray switch has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various settings, whether you are a beginner or advanced user and whether you plan to use it at home or work.
On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a distinct clicky typing experience, the Kailh Sage clicky switch would be a better fit. This switch offers a refreshing and sharp clickiness, adding an extra level of satisfaction to each keystroke. It is described as invigorating and sharp, providing a highly tactile and reactive feel. Additionally, the Sage switch has a crunchy sound profile, reminiscent of stepping on crisp autumn leaves.
Ultimately, the choice between the Ash Gray and Sage switches will depend on your personal preferences for bottom out force, tactile feedback, sound, and overall typing experience. Consider whether you prioritize a lighter touch with moderate feedback (Ash Gray) or a heavier touch with pronounced feedback and satisfying clickiness (Sage). Both switches offer their own unique qualities, enhancing the typing experience in their respective ways.
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