KTT Ash Gray vs. Gateron Silent Ink Black
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the KTT Ash Gray and the Gateron Silent Ink Black. The Ash Gray is a tactile switch that delivers a satisfying yet subtle tactile response, providing a light touch with a crisp actuation. It strikes the perfect balance between tactile feedback and avoiding an overwhelming or "sandy" sensation. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black is a linear switch that offers a cushiony and pillow-like bottom-out feel, making it ideal for environments where quieter typing is required. This switch minimizes audio feedback while providing a silky and polished typing experience. Both switches have their unique characteristics, catering to different preferences and needs. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Ash Gray and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches have distinct differences. The Ash Gray features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, leading to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend top housing, which offers a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. While it is not overly sharp, it is often described as clacky. Both materials provide unique sound characteristics, but the Ash Gray's polycarbonate emphasizes clarity and resonance, while the Silent Ink Black's proprietary blend brings a satisfying thin and clacky sound.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Ash Gray uses nylon, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Conversely, the Silent Ink Black integrates Gateron's proprietary INK blend bottom housing. This material also contributes to a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound, giving it a clacky characteristic. Once again, the Ash Gray's nylon creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the Silent Ink Black's INK blend offers a thinner and clacky sound.
It is important to note that if a switch's top and bottom housings differ, the qualities of each housing material will influence different aspects of the switch's sound and feel. When pressing down on the switch, the characteristics of the bottom housing, whether it be nylon or the INK blend, will impact the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing material, be it polycarbonate or the INK blend, will predominantly affect the sound when releasing a key. While the Ash Gray and Silent Ink Black have different housing materials, they both bring their unique qualities to the overall sound and feel of the switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The KTT Ash Gray has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes with a gentle touch. Its bottom out force is also relatively light at 53 grams, providing a comfortable typing experience without much force required. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams, requiring a bit more pressure to initiate keystrokes. This can give a more substantial feel to typing for those who prefer a stronger push. The bottom out force of the Silent Ink Black is even heavier at 70 grams, adding to the overall typing experience.
For those who value a lighter weight to enhance endurance during long typing sessions or gaming, the KTT Ash Gray would be the preferable choice. The low actuation force and bottom out force provide a lighter, more effortless typing experience. However, for individuals seeking a more substantial and satisfying typing sensation, the Gateron Silent Ink Black would be the better option. The higher actuation force and bottom out force give a stronger push feel, contributing to a more substantial typing experience. In either case, users can achieve their desired results based on their preference for a lighter or heavier switch.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch is shorter, measuring at 3.5 mm, compared to the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Ash Gray falls on the shorter side of the spectrum, which is preferred by gamers seeking faster response times. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black offers a slightly longer travel distance, providing a more hearty and deliberate keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches boils down to personal preference - whether you prioritize speed or a deeper key press sensation. Both options will provide satisfactory results, but if you desire a more immediate feedback, the Ash Gray will be the better choice.
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 Gateron Silent Ink Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Ink Black for $8.35.
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 switch is described as neutral, meaning it has a moderate sound profile. This makes it suitable for both beginners and advanced users, and it can be used in various environments, whether at home or work. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch is described as muted, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches. It is specifically designed for environments that require quieter typing. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps being used. With both switches, you can expect a quieter typing experience, but the Silent Ink Black switch offers a more pronounced reduction in noise.
In terms of feel, the KTT Ash Gray switch is described as easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The switch provides a responsive and low-impact typing feel, enhancing the overall typing experience. Additionally, the Ash Gray switch is also described as mild, which means it offers a gentle typing experience without any pronounced characteristics. It stands in a safe middle-ground zone, making it approachable to most users.
On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch is described as silky and polished. It offers an exceptionally smooth typing experience, enhancing overall smoothness and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The switch's polished finish contributes to a sleek typing experience by reducing friction and ensuring smooth key travel. This switch is specifically designed for users who prioritize a silky and refined typing feel.
In conclusion, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch have distinct subjective qualities. The Ash Gray switch has a light touch, crisp actuation, and a blend of tactile feedback without being overwhelming. It provides a neutral sound profile, easy-to-press feel, and a mild typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black switch offers a pillow-like, cushioned bottom-out feel with minimal audio feedback. It produces a muted, softer, and quieter sound compared to regular switches. The Silent Ink Black switch has a silky smooth typing experience, thanks to its polished finish. Overall, while they have different characteristics, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience and can meet the preferences of different users.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch that offers a light touch combined with a crisp actuation, the KTT Ash Gray is a great choice. With a bottom out force of 53 grams, it falls into the medium-light category and provides a delightful blend of tactile feedback without being overwhelming. This switch is suitable for both beginners and advanced users, whether you plan to use it at home or work. In terms of sound, the Ash Gray has a neutral profile, making it suitable for most purposes. When it comes to feel, it offers an easy-to-press experience with minimal force required for activation, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. It also offers a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users.
On the other hand, if you need a switch that provides a quieter typing experience, the Gateron Silent Ink Black is worth considering. With a bottom out force of 70 grams, it is medium-heavy and offers a cushion-like bottom-out feel with minimal audio feedback. It falls into the muted category in terms of sound, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches. In terms of feel, the Silent Ink Black offers a silky and polished typing experience. It is exceptionally smooth and refined, enhancing the overall smoothness of the typing feel and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys.
Ultimately, your choice between the KTT Ash Gray and the Gateron Silent Ink Black depends on your preferences and specific needs. If you prioritize a light touch, tactile feedback, and a more neutral sound profile, the Ash Gray is the way to go. However, if you value a quieter typing experience and a smooth, polished feel, the Silent Ink Black is a great choice. Consider your typing style, environment, and personal preferences to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Mentioned in this article
