KTT Ash Gray vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Ash Gray and Jwick Semi-Silent Linear are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct features and characteristics for different preferences. The Ash Gray switch is a tactile switch that delivers a substantial yet unobtrusive tactile response. It provides a light touch with crisp actuation, offering a delightful blend of tactile feedback without overwhelming sensations. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear switch is a linear switch known for its innovative design. It produces a whisper-quiet topping-out sound while maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound, resulting in a unique typing experience. It offers a silky smooth type feel that is not overly polished. The Ash Gray switch is categorized as 'Easy-to-press', 'Mild', and 'Neutral,' while the Semi-Silent Linear switch is categorized as 'Subdued', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Snappy', 'Buttery', and 'Polished'. Both switches have their strengths and appeal depending on personal preferences, but let's dive in a bit deeper beyond 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
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The KTT Ash Gray and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear both utilize polycarbonate as their top housing material. This choice of material creates a similar sound profile for both switches, characterized by a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Additionally, the stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Both switches also benefit from the translucency of polycarbonate, particularly when using RGB lighting, as it allows for vibrant and eye-catching visuals.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Ash Gray employs nylon while the Semi-Silent Linear also utilizes a nylon housing. Nylon has long been a favored material for switch housings due to its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This characteristic becomes more prominent when typing on switches with nylon bottom housing, offering a unique auditory experience.
It is important to note that the top and bottom housing materials play different roles in dictating the overall sound and feel of a switch. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, meaning that the differences between the Ash Gray and the Semi-Silent Linear will be more noticeable when pressing down on the switch. On the other hand, the top housing affects the sound when letting go of a key. Thus, while both switches may have similar qualities in their top housing due to polycarbonate, the distinction in their bottom housings will result in varied sound experiences during typing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, there are notable differences in their weight and force requirements. The actuation force of the Ash Gray switch is measured at 38 grams, while the Semi-Silent Linear's actuation force is unavailable. However, both switches have a medium force requirement for bottoming out, with the Ash Gray at 53 grams and the Semi-Silent Linear at 62 grams.
In terms of weight, the Ash Gray switch is lighter than the Semi-Silent Linear switch, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions or prolonged gaming. With a lighter actuation force, users can type effortlessly and comfortably for longer periods. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a heavier bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel.
While the actuation force for the Semi-Silent Linear switch is unavailable, it is important to note that both switches have a medium bottom out force. This means that users can expect similar results when it comes to the overall pressure required to press the keys fully.
In conclusion, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch is lighter in weight and has a medium-light actuation force, providing a comfortable typing experience for extended periods. The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch, though heavier, offers a medium bottom out force, resulting in a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences, with lighter options being favored for longer typing sessions and heavier options providing a more pronounced tactile experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, it is clear that there is a slight difference. The Ash Gray has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Semi-Silent Linear has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the range of average travel distances and are therefore suitable for general use. The Ash Gray, being the shorter of the two, might be preferred by gamers or those seeking faster response times. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear, with its slightly longer travel distance, may appeal to individuals who prefer a more substantial and deeper feel when pressing down on the key. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the level of responsiveness and depth the user desires in their typing 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 Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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 best known for its delightful blend of tactile feedback. It offers a substantial yet unobtrusive tactile response, providing a light touch with a crisp actuation. The tactile feedback of the Ash Gray switch is not too overwhelming but far from the unnoticed "sandy" sensation. This switch has a neutral sound profile, which means it has a moderate sound and actuation force requirement suitable for most intents and purposes. The sound of the Ash Gray switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch stands out for its innovative design. It is labeled as semi-silent due to its whisper-quiet topping-out sound while maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound. The type feel of the Semi-Silent Linear switch is described as silky smooth but not over-polished. It offers a mild typing experience, which is gentle and approachable to most users. Additionally, the Semi-Silent Linear switch is snappy, providing a super responsive typing experience.
In terms of sound, the Ash Gray switch has a neutral profile, offering a moderate sound level suitable for various settings. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear switch produces a subdued, dampened sound when pressed. It is not completely silent, but offers a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. Both switches have a moderate actuation force requirement.
In terms of feel, the Ash Gray switch is described as easy-to-press and mild. It offers gentle resistance during key presses, requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force enhances typing efficiency, reduces finger fatigue, and provides a low-impact typing feel. Similarly, the Semi-Silent Linear switch is also described as mild, providing a gentle typing experience. It is snappy, meaning it offers a more lively typing feel, thanks to the longer or dual-staged springs used in its design. It is also buttery and polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch differ in sound and feel qualities. The Ash Gray switch offers a tactile response that is substantial yet unobtrusive, with a neutral sound and easy-to-press, mild feel. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear switch features a semi-silent sound profile with subdued characteristics and a mild, snappy, buttery, and polished feel. Depending on your preferences, both switches can provide satisfactory typing experiences.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a light touch and subtle yet noticeable tactile feedback, the KTT Ash Gray switch is the best choice for you. With its medium-light bottom out force of 53 grams, it offers an easy-to-press feel that enhances the typing experience by providing a responsive and low-impact typing feel. Additionally, the Ash Gray switch has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for most intents and 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 you prefer a linear switch with a medium bottom out force of 62 grams and a semi-silent sound profile, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch is the ideal option. Its semi-silent label comes from its whisper-quiet topping-out sound while still maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound. This switch offers a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users, with a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch depends on your personal preferences for tactile feedback, typing feel, and sound profile. Consider whether you prefer a light touch with subtle tactile feedback or a smooth and fluid typing experience with a semi-silent sound. By understanding your preferences, you can choose the switch that will provide the best typing experience for you. In the end, both switches are excellent options, and it's all about finding the one that aligns with your specific needs and preferences.
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