KTT Ash Gray vs. KTT Sea Salt Lemon
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two options that stand out are the KTT Ash Gray, a tactile switch, and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon, a linear switch. The Ash Gray switch is designed to provide a tactile response that is both substantial and unobtrusive, striking a perfect balance between a light touch and a crisp actuation. With its delightful blend of tactile feedback, the Ash Gray switch offers a satisfying typing experience without overwhelming your fingertips. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemon switch represents what a linear switch can be, showcasing a progressive spring and KTT's dry-lube design to deliver a buttery smooth feel while typing. With its low-pitched and mild characteristics, the Sea Salt Lemon switch provides a subtle yet enjoyable typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
53g
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
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
13mm progressive spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Ash Gray and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches share many similarities. Both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which allows for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. Therefore, both the Ash Gray and Sea Salt Lemon switches will yield similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics.
However, the key difference lies in their nylon bottom housings. The Ash Gray switch utilizes nylon, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. Conversely, the Sea Salt Lemon switch also incorporates a nylon bottom housing, providing the same deep and full sound profile. This similarity in the bottom housing material ensures that both switches offer a consistent typing experience.
When comparing the impact of the top and bottom housings, it is important to note that the qualities of each material are distributed accordingly. The bottom housing has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, meaning that the nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes significantly to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the top housing predominantly affects the sound when releasing a key. Thus, while the top and bottom housings may differ between the Ash Gray and Sea Salt Lemon switches, the overall performance and feel remain comparable.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch to the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, it is evident that they have similar bottom out forces, both registering at 53 grams, which can be considered medium-light. However, there is a slight difference in their actuation forces. The Ash Gray tactile switch requires a force of 38 grams to trigger a keystroke, while the Sea Salt Lemon linear switch has an actuation force of 45 grams.
Considering the weight aspect, both switches fall into the lighter category, which can be advantageous for individuals who prefer extended typing sessions or lengthy gaming sessions. The lighter actuation force of the Ash Gray switch may enable longer periods of typing without causing excessive strain on the fingers. Similarly, the Sea Salt Lemon switch’s slightly higher actuation force can still provide a comfortable typing experience for extended durations.
On the other hand, for those seeking a more substantial typing experience that requires a stronger push feel, both switches may fall short as their forces are relatively lighter. However, within this context, the Ash Gray switch can be perceived as lighter compared to the Sea Salt Lemon switch due to its lower actuation force.
In conclusion, while the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch differ slightly, they both fall into the medium-light category. Both switches provide a lighter typing experience suitable for extended usage periods. However, if a stronger push feel is desired, individuals may need to explore other switch options with heavier forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Sea Salt Lemon switch is the longer option. 4.0mm is considered the most traditional travel distance, while 3.0mm is the most shallow. However, shorter travel distances have gained popularity, especially among gamers who prioritize faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive feel, the Ash Gray with its shorter travel distance would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, for those who prefer a deeper key press, the Sea Salt Lemon with its longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying 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 KTT Sea Salt Lemon comes in at $2.80 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
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch is known for delivering a tactile response that is both substantial and unobtrusive. This switch offers a light touch with a crisp actuation, resulting in a delightful blend of tactile feedback on the fingertips. It is not overwhelming, but certainly far from the unnoticed "sandy" sensation. In terms of sound, the Ash Gray is described as neutral, which means it has a moderate sound profile suitable for various purposes. The feel of the Ash Gray switch is characterized as easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance during key presses. This results in minimal force required to activate the switch, making typing effortless and comfortable. It provides a responsive and low-impact typing feel.
On the other hand, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch is an excellent representation of a smooth linear switch. It features a progressive spring and KTT's dry-lube design, which contributes to a buttery smooth typing experience. In terms of sound, the Sea Salt Lemon is described as low-pitched, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Just like the Ash Gray, the Sea Salt Lemon has a neutral sound profile suitable for most purposes. The feel of the Sea Salt Lemon switch is also described as mild, providing a gentle typing experience without pronounced characteristics.
In conclusion, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch have distinct subjective qualities. The Ash Gray provides a light touch with a crisp actuation and a delightful blend of tactile feedback. It has a neutral sound profile and an easy-to-press feel, enhancing the typing experience. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemon offers a buttery smooth typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile. It has a mild feel that is approachable to most users. Depending on personal preferences, both switches offer unique qualities that can greatly enhance the typing experience. Whether you choose the Ash Gray or the Sea Salt Lemon, you can expect similar results in terms of their neutral sound profiles.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a light touch and a crisp actuation, the KTT Ash Gray is the perfect choice for you. With its delightful blend of tactile feedback, it provides a substantial yet unobtrusive typing experience. Additionally, the Ash Gray has a moderate sound profile, making it suitable for any environment, 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 linear switch that offers a buttery smooth typing experience, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon is an excellent option. Its progressive spring and dry-lube design create a seamless and frictionless typing feel. The Sea Salt Lemon also has a low-pitched sound profile, which gives it a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Like the Ash Gray, it has a moderate actuation force requirement, making it versatile for various typing needs.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Ash Gray and KTT Sea Salt Lemon depends on your preference for tactile feedback and sound profile. If you value a light touch and a tactile response, go for the Ash Gray. If you prioritize a smooth linear feel and a low-pitched sound, the Sea Salt Lemon will be your ideal choice. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience and can be used by beginners and advanced users alike.
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