KTT Ash Gray vs. Bsun Tomcat (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to enhancing your typing experience, the choice of mechanical keyboard switches can significantly influence both comfort and performance. The KTT Ash Gray switch, a tactile option, is celebrated for its substantial yet unobtrusive tactile response, providing a delightful blend of mild feedback that ensures tactile engagement without being overwhelming. It’s categorized as 'Easy-to-press,' making it an appealing choice for those who appreciate a more nuanced typing experience that remains engaging yet comfortable for extended use. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switch opts for a linear design, featuring Ly stems that promote an exceptionally smooth typing experience accompanied by a resonant sound profile. While the Tomcat delivers a quieter actuation suitable for those who prefer a more fluid keystroke without tactile interruptions, it may lack the distinctive feedback some typists cherish. Ultimately, your choice between the KTT Ash Gray and Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) will depend on your personal preferences for feedback and sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
64g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.95 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
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
Extended spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Ash Gray and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy), one finds striking similarities, particularly in the top housing, which is crafted from polycarbonate. Both switches leverage the acoustic properties of this material to create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The inherent stiffness of polycarbonate allows for a clearer and more resonant sound, beneficial for users who appreciate precise auditory feedback in their typing experiences. Aesthetically, both switches benefit from the translucency of polycarbonate, making them especially appealing for setups featuring RGB lighting, as the illumination can shine through the housing, enhancing the visual experience.
On the flip side, the bottom housing of both switches is composed of nylon, a material known for its unique sound absorption characteristics. Nylon contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is softer than polycarbonate and has a propensity to dampen sound waves. This results in a duller and rounder auditory experience when typing on switches with nylon bottoms. Both the KTT Ash Gray and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) share this nylon characteristic, suggesting that users can expect a consistent depth in sound regardless of which switch they choose, further emphasizing the importance of the bottom housing in shaping the overall typing feel and sound.
Despite the materials being the same, the impact of each housing on the overall switch experience is nuanced. The polycarbonate top will dictate the sound when releasing a key, while the nylon bottom will primarily influence the bottom-out sound and feel during key presses. Thus, while both the KTT Ash Gray and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) houses are made from the same materials, the character of each switch may yet differ based on their unique design nuances. Users can anticipate a lively sound profile from the tops combined with a rounded sound signature from the bottoms, producing a cohesive and harmonious typing experience across both switch options.
Weight
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch exhibit distinct characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Ash Gray has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, which makes it more suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch, allowing for easier and potentially longer typing sessions. In contrast, the Tomcat (Heavy) features a significantly heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 64 grams, appealing to those who favor a more substantial feel when typing. This difference in force contributes to varying typing experiences: while the Ash Gray might be ideal for office work and extended use, the Tomcat (Heavy) may provide the satisfying resistance that some typists and gamers desire. Therefore, while both switches can offer unique experiences based on user preference, the Ash Gray is the lighter option, whereas the Tomcat (Heavy) is the heavier choice.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, the differences are slight yet notable. The Ash Gray switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Tomcat (Heavy) offers a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that if you are looking for a more responsive feel, the KTT Ash Gray would be the better choice due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) provides a more substantial depth, which might cater to users who prefer a more tactile experience while typing or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal preference—whether you lean toward quicker actuation or a richer keystroke 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 Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) comes in at $2.99 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
In terms of sound, the KTT Ash Gray switch offers a neutral profile characterized by a moderate actuation force requirement and a balanced sound signature. This neutrality makes it suitable for a variety of environments, whether at home or in a professional setting, appealing to both beginners and seasoned typists. The resonant sound profile of the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, while not specifically described, suggests that it might produce a deeper or more pronounced auditory experience. However, since sound can significantly vary based on the keyboard design and keycap materials, both switches can potentially deliver distinct auditory sensations depending on these factors.
When it comes to feel, the Ash Gray provides an easy-to-press experience, requiring minimal force to activate and offering gentle resistance. This makes it particularly comfortable for long typing sessions, reducing finger fatigue while maintaining a pleasant tactile feedback that straddles the line between noticeable and unobtrusive. Furthermore, the Ash Gray switch is described as mild, making its characteristics approachable for a wide range of users. While the specific feel for the Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch is unknown, linear switches typically emphasize a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke without the tactile bumps present in the Ash Gray, which could make the typing experience distinctly different.
Overall, both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles. The KTT Ash Gray offers a balanced tactile response with a neutral sound profile, making it ideal for those who appreciate feedback without excess noise or resistance. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) is designed for smooth key presses, which may appeal to users who favor a straightforward, linear experience. Depending on your typing environment and personal preference, you may find one switch more suitable than the other; however, each would provide an enjoyable typing experience in its unique way.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch will ultimately depend on your typing preferences and intended usage. If you value a switch that offers a balanced tactile feel with a lighter actuation force, the Ash Gray is an excellent choice. It's designed to provide a comfortable typing experience, making it suitable for long hours of writing or gaming without overwhelming your fingers. Its neutral sound profile also ensures that you won’t disturb those around you, whether you’re at home or in a shared workspace. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier touch and a super smooth experience, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) may be more to your liking. With its higher bottom-out force, it caters to users who enjoy a more deliberate keypress, ideal for those who want robust feedback while typing or gaming, and appreciate a resonant sound characteristic. In summary, if ease and comfort are your priorities, go for the Ash Gray; but if you’re after a more substantial feel with smoothness, the Tomcat (Heavy) will serve you well.
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