KTT Ash Gray vs. Gateron Type L
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the Gateron Type L switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the KTT Ash Gray and the Gateron Type L mechanical keyboard switches, you are presented with two distinct options to consider. The Ash Gray offers a tactile experience that strikes a balance between responsiveness and subtlety, making it a great choice for those who prefer a tactile feedback that is not too overwhelming. On the other hand, the Type L from Sillyworks' "Project Rehash" lineup boasts a light and easy-to-press feel, coupled with a sound signature that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum. Both switches have their unique qualities and cater to different preferences. 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
38g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The KTT Ash Gray features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the Gateron Type L uses a nylon top housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. While the Ash Gray's top housing is ideal for showcasing RGB lighting due to its translucency, the Type L's nylon top housing offers a classic switch housing material known for its sound-absorbing properties.
Both the Ash Gray and the Type L utilize nylon for their bottom housings, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on these switches. The softness of the nylon material in the bottom housing helps to create a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. This similarity in bottom housing material between the two switches means that they will likely have a comparable typing experience with regards to sound profile and feel.
Overall, the choice between the KTT Ash Gray and the Gateron Type L will come down to personal preference in sound profile and material feel. The Ash Gray's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and higher-pitched sound, while the Type L's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound experience. Both switches share a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a consistent deep and full sound profile when typing. Ultimately, whether you prefer the crispness of polycarbonate or the deeper tones of nylon will determine which switch is the better fit for your typing preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, we find that the Ash Gray has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 53 grams compared to the Type L's 45 grams, making it the heavier of the two. However, both switches have the same actuation force of 38 grams, meaning that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of triggering a keystroke. The Ash Gray provides a medium-light feel overall, while the Type L offers a lighter touch. Some users may prefer the Ash Gray for its slightly heavier bottom out force, which can provide a more substantial typing experience, while others may opt for the Type L for its lighter feel, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. Ultimately, the weight of the switch is a personal preference, with some favoring a lighter touch for extended use, while others enjoy the added resistance of a heavier force for a more satisfying typing experience.
Travel distance
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it the shorter option compared to the Gateron Type L linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of commonly used travel distances, with the Type L being slightly longer. Gamers may prefer the Ash Gray for its shorter travel distance, resulting in faster response times. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the Type L for its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for the feel and responsiveness of the key press.
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 Type L comes in at $4.70 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, both the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch exhibit a neutral sound profile. This means that they have a moderate sound level that is suitable for most purposes, whether it be for beginners or advanced users and for use at home or in a work setting. However, the Type L switch also offers a subdued sound signature, providing a more dampened sound when pressed compared to most switches. It's important to note that the sound produced by mechanical keyboard switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard itself and the keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Ash Gray switch is described as easy-to-press and mild, offering gentle resistance during key presses and a typing experience that is both responsive and low-impact. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L switch is characterized as feathery and easy-to-press, requiring minimal force to activate and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable typing experience, with the Type L being the lightest in the series and requiring only 45g to bottom out.
In conclusion, both the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. While the Ash Gray switch offers a blend of tactile feedback that is substantial yet unobtrusive, the Type L switch stands out as the lightest in its series with a sound signature that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's specific needs and preferences in terms of sound and feel. However, it's important to keep in mind that both switches aim to enhance the overall typing experience through their distinct qualities.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, you should consider your preferences and typing style. If you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a blend of tactile feedback that is not too overwhelming, the Ash Gray switch would be an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a light linear switch with a bottom out force of only 45 grams and a sound signature that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum, the Type L switch may be more suitable for you. Both switches offer a pleasant typing experience with their unique characteristics, so ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on what feels best for you.
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