KTT Ash Gray vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the KTT Strawberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the KTT Ash Gray and the KTT Strawberry, two mechanical keyboard switches with unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Ash Gray switch is designed to deliver a tactile response that is substantial yet unobtrusive, offering a delightful blend of tactile feedback without overwhelming sensation. Categorized as 'Easy-to-press', 'Mild', and 'Neutral', this switch provides a light touch with a crisp actuation. On the other hand, the Strawberry switch is renowned for its smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance. Loved for its attractive pink and clear housings, this switch offers a low-pitched, frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished typing experience. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision on the best switch for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The KTT Ash Gray and KTT Strawberry keyboards both utilize polycarbonate as the material for their top housing. This choice of material results in a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisp sound profile for both keyboards. The relative stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for incorporating RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the keys. Therefore, both the Ash Gray and Strawberry keyboards offer similar sound experiences and visual effects due to their shared polycarbonate top housing.
However, there is a notable difference between these keyboards when it comes to the material used for the bottom housing. The Ash Gray employs nylon as its bottom housing material, while the Strawberry sticks with polycarbonate. This divergence in materials impacts the sound produced by the keyboards. The nylon bottom housing of the Ash Gray creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Strawberry contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, aligning with the qualities of the top housing. Therefore, users may notice variations in sound when bottoming out the keys, depending on whether they opt for the Ash Gray or Strawberry keyboard.
Overall, the differences between the top and bottom housing materials of the Ash Gray and Strawberry keyboards create distinct sound experiences. While both keyboards share the characteristic qualities of polycarbonate for their top housing, the choice of nylon or polycarbonate for the bottom housing affects the overall sound profile. However, if users prioritize a consistent sound experience throughout their typing, opting for either the Ash Gray or Strawberry will deliver satisfying results.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Ash Gray has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams compared to the Strawberry's 43 grams. Similarly, the Ash Gray also has a lighter bottom out force of 53 grams while the Strawberry requires a slightly heavier force of 62 grams. This means that the Ash Gray provides a slightly lighter and more effortless typing experience overall. However, both switches fall within the medium range, so users can expect similar results in terms of their overall typing experience. It's worth noting that the weight of the switches can greatly impact the typing experience, with lighter switches being preferred for longer typing periods, such as for work or gaming sessions, while some users might prefer the heavier forces of the Strawberry for a more substantial and tactile typing feel.
Travel distance
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch offer contrasting travel distances. The Ash Gray has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it shorter than the more traditional 4 mm travel distance of the Strawberry. Gamers, who prioritize faster response times, tend to prefer shorter travel distances like the Ash Gray. Its shorter distance allows for quick and precise keystrokes, perfect for gaming. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more hearty depth and a smoother typing experience may lean towards the Strawberry's longer travel distance. With its 4 mm distance, it provides a more substantial feel when pressing down on the keys. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming 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 Strawberry comes in at $4.91 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 sound profile that is suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user and whether you plan to use it at home or work. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry switch is described as having a low-pitched sound. This means that it produces a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, both switches offer different sound qualities, with the Ash Gray being more neutral and the Strawberry having a low-pitched tone.
In terms of feel, the KTT Ash Gray switch is described as being easy-to-press and offering a gentle resistance during key presses. This means that it requires minimal force to activate, making typing effortless and comfortable. It also reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the Ash Gray switch is also described as being mild, offering a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. This means that its sound and feel fall within a safe, middle-ground zone that most people will find approachable. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry switch is described as being frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished. These descriptors indicate that the switch offers an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience, with minimal resistance or friction when pressing the keys. It provides a fluid travel and a sleek typing experience. Both switches offer different levels of resistance and smoothness, with the Ash Gray being easy-to-press and mild, while the Strawberry offers an exceptionally smooth and polished feel.
To summarize, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch is best known for its light touch, crisp actuation, and delightful blend of tactile feedback. It has a neutral sound profile and offers an easy-to-press and mild typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry linear switch is loved for its smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance. It has a low-pitched sound and offers a frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished typing experience. Both switches provide different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you are looking for a switch with a moderate sound profile and easy-to-press typing feel, the Ash Gray would be a suitable choice. If you prefer a switch with a low-pitched sound and an exceptionally smooth and polished typing experience, the Strawberry switch would be a great option. Ultimately, the choice depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the specific qualities you prioritize in a switch.
If you value a light touch with a crisp actuation and a delightful blend of tactile feedback that is substantial yet unobtrusive, the Ash Gray switch would be a suitable option for you. It offers an easy-to-press and mild typing experience that enhances the overall typing feel. Additionally, the Ash Gray has a medium-light bottom out force of 53 grams, making it suitable for most intents and purposes.
On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance, the Strawberry switch would be a better choice. It provides a frictionless and silky typing experience, minimizing resistance and offering a fluid key travel. With its medium bottom out force of 62 grams, the Strawberry switch falls into the medium category, ensuring a comfortable and responsive typing experience.
In terms of sound, the Ash Gray switch has a neutral profile, making it suitable for most scenarios, whether you are a beginner or advanced user and whether you plan to use it at home or work. The Strawberry switch, on the other hand, has a low-pitched sound profile, which results in a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches.
Ultimately, both the Ash Gray tactile switch and the Strawberry linear switch have their own unique qualities and advantages. It is important to consider factors such as typing preferences, tactile feedback, smoothness, and sound when making your decision. By understanding your own preferences and needs, you can confidently choose the switch that will enhance your typing experience and meet your requirements.
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