KTT Ash Gray vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the Jwick Taro 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 Jwick Taro. The Ash Gray switch is designed to provide a tactile response that is both substantial and unobtrusive. With this switch, you can expect a light touch combined with a crisp actuation, resulting in a delightful blend of tactile feedback that is not overwhelming but far from the unnoticed "sandy" sensation. On the other hand, the Taro switch offers a cozy typing experience with a snappy and medium-level of tactility. It produces acute and crisp clacks while providing a comfortable and subdued color scheme. The Ash Gray switch is categorized as 'Easy-to-press', 'Mild', and 'Neutral', while the Taro switch falls under the categories of 'Neutral', 'Buttery', and 'Stepped'. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so that you can decide on the best switch for your specific preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
No
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 housing materials of the KTT Ash Gray and the Jwick Taro switches are remarkably similar. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is relatively stiff, allowing for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. Therefore, whether you choose the Ash Gray or the Taro, you can expect similar results in terms of sound quality and aesthetics.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Ash Gray and the Taro switches feature nylon. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon's softer nature allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This aspect of the bottom housing material will impact the sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, creating a distinct typing experience.
Although the use of different housing materials for the top and bottom may divide the qualities of each material, the overall typing experience remains consistent for both switches. When pressing down, the qualities of the bottom housing material predominantly influence the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing material has a greater impact on the sound emitted when releasing a key. In this regard, the Ash Gray and the Taro may differ slightly, but their fundamental construction ensures a comparable user experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, it is evident that there are notable differences. The Ash Gray switch has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, placing it in the medium-light category. In contrast, the Taro switch does not provide information regarding its actuation force, but it does have a bottom out force of 67 grams, indicating a medium-heavy weight.
Considering weight is crucial for various reasons. Some individuals prefer a lighter switch as it allows them to type for extended periods without experiencing fatigue. This characteristic proves beneficial for keyboards used in professional settings or during prolonged gaming sessions. On the other hand, certain users enjoy a more pronounced keystroke sensation, opting for switches with heavier actuation forces. This choice provides a more substantial typing experience.
While the specific actuation force for the Taro switch remains unknown, we can assume that the Ash Gray switch's 38-gram actuation force will offer a similar result if the Taro switch has a comparable weight. However, it is important to note that the Taro switch surpasses the Ash Gray switch in terms of bottom out force, with its 67-gram weight falling into the medium-heavy category. Thus, if users prefer a more forceful keystroke, the Taro switch would be the suitable option.
Travel distance
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Jwick Taro tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular in recent times. Gamers, in particular, tend to favor shorter travel distances as they allow for faster response times. Therefore, if you prioritize responsiveness, the KTT Ash Gray switch with its shorter travel distance would be the better choice. However, for those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key, the Jwick Taro switch with its longer travel distance might be preferred. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches relies on personal preference.
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 Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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, both the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch are described as having a moderate sound profile. This means that they have a balanced and not overly loud sound, making them suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced typist, and whether you plan to use them at home or work. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Therefore, while both switches have a similar sound profile, the final sound experience may vary depending on these additional factors.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch offers an easy-to-press experience. These switches have a light actuation force, requiring minimal force to activate, making typing effortless and comfortable. They provide gentle resistance during key presses, enhancing the typing experience by offering a responsive and low-impact feel. Additionally, the Ash Gray switch is described as having a mild feel, which means it offers a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. It falls in a safe and middle-ground zone, making it approachable to most users.
On the other hand, the Jwick Taro tactile switch is described as having a buttery feel. This implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. Additionally, the Taro switch is characterized as a stepped switch, which means it has a two-stage tactile feedback. Unlike hypertactile switches that have a big bump throughout the keystroke, stepped switches have some pre-travel and/or post-travel, resulting in a more mild tactile sensation.
In conclusion, both the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch offer their own unique qualities. In terms of sound, they have a similar neutral sound profile which is suitable for most intents and purposes. When it comes to feel, the Ash Gray switch provides an easy-to-press and mild experience, while the Taro switch offers a buttery and stepped feel. The choice between these switches ultimately depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience. However, based on the available information, users can expect a pleasant typing experience with both switches, albeit with slightly different tactile sensations.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a delightful blend of tactile feedback, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch would be a great choice for you. The Ash Gray switch offers a light touch with a crisp actuation, providing a satisfying typing experience. It has an easy-to-press feel, requiring minimal force to activate, making typing effortless and comfortable. Additionally, the Ash Gray switch has a neutral sound profile, suitable for various environments such as home or work.
On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a cozy typing experience with snappy tactility, the Jwick Taro tactile switch could be the switch for you. The Taro switch offers a medium-level of tactility and produces acute and crisp clacks, enhancing the overall typing experience. It has a buttery feel, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. The Taro switch also falls under the neutral sound profile category, making it suitable for different usage scenarios.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Ash Gray and Jwick Taro tactile switches depends on your personal preference for bottom out force, tactile feedback, and typing feel. Consider the level of force you are comfortable with, the level of tactility you prefer, and whether you prioritize an easy-to-press or buttery typing experience. Both switches offer a moderate sound profile, making them suitable for most intents and purposes.
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