KTT Ash Gray vs. TTC Silent Bluish White (V2)
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the KTT Ash Gray and the TTC Silent Bluish White. The Ash Gray switch is best known for its light touch and crisp actuation, delivering a tactile response that is substantial yet unobtrusive. With a delightful blend of tactile feedback, it offers a typing experience that is not too overwhelming, but far from the unnoticed "sandy" sensation. On the other hand, the Silent Bluish White switch provides a medium tactile feel, offering a satisfying level of resistance when pressed. These switches are designed to be as quiet as possible, making them perfect for office or shared living space use. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
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
The KTT Ash Gray and the TTC Silent Bluish White both utilize polycarbonate as the material for their top housings. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced when typing on these switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended to be used with RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar sound and aesthetic experiences from both the Ash Gray and Silent Bluish White due to the shared use of polycarbonate in their top housings.
While the top housings of the Ash Gray and Silent Bluish White are similar, their bottom housings differ. The Ash Gray features a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is softer compared to harder plastics, allowing it to absorb more sound and produce a duller and rounder tone. Similarly, the Silent Bluish White also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a similar deep and full sound profile. Therefore, users can expect a comparable typing experience in terms of sound when using either the Ash Gray or the Silent Bluish White, as their nylon bottom housings share similar characteristics.
When considering the impact of the top and bottom housings on the overall performance of the switches, it is important to note that their qualities are divided. The bottom housing has a more significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down, while the top housing affects the sound produced when a key is released. Therefore, the user experience may differ slightly between the Ash Gray and Silent Bluish White, depending on the specific use and feel of the switches. However, the overall sound characteristics provided by the combination of polycarbonate in the top housing and nylon in the bottom housing remain consistent, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for users of both switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch, there are noticeable differences. 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 Silent Bluish White has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, which is considered light.
For those who prefer a lighter switch, the Silent Bluish White would be the better option. With a slightly lower actuation force and bottom out force, it allows for a more effortless typing experience. This can be beneficial for individuals who need to type for extended periods, such as in office or gaming scenarios.
However, for those who enjoy a stronger push and a more substantial typing experience, the Ash Gray would be a suitable choice. With a higher bottom out force, it provides a satisfying tactile feedback and may be preferred by individuals who desire a bit more resistance while typing.
Overall, weight is an important factor to consider when choosing a switch, as it can greatly impact the typing experience. The variations in actuation force and bottom out force between the KTT Ash Gray and TTC Silent Bluish White switches offer options for individuals with different preferences. Whether one prefers a lighter or heavier switch, both options provide similar results in terms of triggering keystrokes.
Travel distance
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch have the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that both switches will provide a similar experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. Whether you choose the Ash Gray or the Silent Bluish White switch, you can expect to feel a consistent 3.5 mm travel distance when pressing down on the keys. Therefore, the travel distance of both switches is equal.
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 TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Bluish White (V2) for $4.63.
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 produces a moderate amount of sound, making it suitable for various environments and user preferences. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Bluish White switch is described as producing a muted sound. This switch is designed to minimize noise, making it a great option for those who prefer quiet typing experiences, especially in office or shared living spaces. It's important to note that the sound produced by both switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the KTT Ash Gray switch is known for its easy-to-press characteristic. 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 typing sessions. Overall, the Ash Gray switch provides a responsive and low-impact typing experience. Similarly, the TTC Silent Bluish White switch is described as having a mild typing experience. It offers a gentle and approachable feel, making it suitable for a wide range of users. The switch is often described as buttery, indicating a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Additionally, the Silent Bluish White switch has a subtle resistance and a polished finish, resulting in a sleek and comfortable typing feel.
Considering both switches based on the available information, the KTT Ash Gray and TTC Silent Bluish White switches offer different subjective qualities. The Ash Gray switch provides a tactile response that is substantial yet unobtrusive, with a light touch and crisp actuation. It offers easy-to-press keys and a mild typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Bluish White switch also offers a medium tactile feel and a satisfying level of resistance. It is designed to be as quiet as possible, making it suitable for office or shared living space use. Both switches have a mild typing experience in common, offering a comfortable and gentle feel. However, the Silent Bluish White switch stands out for its emphasis on minimizing noise. Overall, depending on personal preferences and the desired typing experience, either switch can provide a satisfying and enjoyable user experience.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a light touch and a crisp actuation, the KTT Ash Gray switch would be a great choice. It offers a delightful blend of tactile feedback that is not too overwhelming, yet far from unnoticed. Additionally, the Ash Gray switch is described as easy-to-press and mild, providing a low-impact and comfortable typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a quiet typing experience, especially for office or shared living spaces, the TTC Silent Bluish White switch is the way to go. Despite having a medium level of tactility, these switches are designed to be as quiet as possible. The Silent Bluish White switch offers a buttery and stepped feel, providing a smooth and uniform typing sensation. It is also described as mild and subtle, ensuring a gentle resistance and a sound signature that is suitable for shared spaces.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Ash Gray and TTC Silent Bluish White switches will depend on your preferences and specific needs. Both switches have their unique features and advantages, so consider factors like actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel to make an informed decision.
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