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KTT Ash Gray vs. Wuque Studio WS Dash

An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the Wuque Studio WS Dash switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two standout options are the KTT Ash Gray and the Wuque Studio WS Dash. The KTT Ash Gray is a tactile switch celebrated for its well-balanced performance, providing a substantial yet unobtrusive tactile response. Users appreciate how it offers a light touch combined with crisp actuation, making it ideal for those seeking an engaging typing experience without overwhelming feedback. Its categorization as "Easy-to-press," "Mild," and "Neutral" makes it an excellent choice for both gamers and typists who desire a versatile switch. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Dash features Hall Effect technology, offering a unique blend of bright, clacky sounds and a silky smooth keystroke. Known for its classy aesthetic and refined performance, this switch appeals to users who appreciate an auditory experience along with a smooth action while typing. Each switch caters to different user preferences: the Ash Gray for those who value tactile feedback in their keystrokes and the WS Dash for those who enjoy auditory cues and a seamless typing feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.

By the numbers

Technical specifications

Actuation force

38g

Actuation force

30g

Bottom-out force

53g

Bottom-out force

55g

Pre-travel

2.00 mm

Pre-travel

N/A

Total travel

3.50 mm

Total travel

3.50 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

Nylon

Mount type

Plate (3-pin)

Mount type

PCB (5-pin)

Spring

18mm spring

Spring

Stainless steel

Housing materials

When analyzing the housing materials of the KTT Ash Gray and the Wuque Studio WS Dash, one notable similarity is their construction: both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing. This shared combination contributes to a distinctive sound profile characteristic of these switches. The polycarbonate top housing promotes a sharp, high-pitched tone that is both crisp and clear, largely due to the rigidity of the material. Its translucency also allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, making it visually appealing for users who prioritize aesthetics alongside performance.

In contrast to their top housing, both the Ash Gray and the WS Dash utilize nylon for their bottom housing, which introduces a different sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic compared to polycarbonate, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound when typing. This characteristic is vital as the bottom housing significantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Therefore, while both switches share the polycarbonate's crisp upper resonance, they also benefit from the complementary warmth and depth provided by the nylon base, effectively merging two distinct acoustic properties into a single typing experience.

Overall, the KTT Ash Gray and the Wuque Studio WS Dash are fundamentally similar in their materials, leading to comparable auditory results. Each switch leverages the advantages of polycarbonate and nylon, creating a balance of sharp and deep sounds which enhance the overall typing experience. Users can expect a consistent performance regardless of which switch they choose, as the combination of materials produces desirable sound characteristics while accommodating RGB lighting preferences. The synergy between the rigid upper and the softer lower housing is key to achieving a well-rounded and satisfying tactile response.

Weight

When comparing the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch, we can observe both similarities and differences in their force characteristics. The Ash Gray has an actuation force of 38 grams, while the WS Dash has a lighter actuation force of 30 grams. This makes the WS Dash easier to press, supporting users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. However, the bottom out force for the Ash Gray is 53 grams, which is slightly lower than the WS Dash's 55 grams. This means that while both switches fall into the medium-light category, the Ash Gray offers a slightly more substantial feel at the bottom, appealing to those who enjoy a heavier push in their typing experience. In summary, the WS Dash is the lighter option regarding actuation, while the Ash Gray provides a more significant bottom out enforcement.

Travel distance

The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch both have a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making them identical in this regard. This equal travel distance means that users will experience a similar key feel when pressing down on either switch, providing consistent feedback and action during use. Consequently, those seeking a uniform typing experience would find either switch suitable, as they share the same travel distance and thus, offer similar tactile responses.

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 Wuque Studio WS Dash has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Dash for $7.49.

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 tactile switch produces a neutral profile that strikes a balance, making it versatile enough for various environments, whether you're in a quiet home office or a bustling workspace. Its moderate actuation force results in a sound that's unobtrusive, allowing for comfortable typing without drawing excessive attention. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Dash Hall Effect switch is noted for its bright and clacky sound signature. This engaging auditory experience is likely to create a more lively typing atmosphere, depending heavily on your choice of keyboard and keycaps, but retains an enjoyable quality that can enhance the overall experience when typing or gaming.

In terms of feel, the Ash Gray switch excels with an easy-to-press mechanism that offers gentle resistance, making it comfortable for prolonged use. This minimal actuation force reduces finger fatigue and provides a gentle yet satisfying typing experience, characterized by a mild tactile feedback that avoids overwhelming sensations. The WS Dash, associated with a silky smooth keystroke, suggests a seamlessly gliding motion while typing, but specific terms about its feel and feedback are currently unknown.

In conclusion, both the KTT Ash Gray and Wuque Studio WS Dash switches offer unique and appealing qualities that cater to different preferences. The Ash Gray provides a neutral sound and an easy-going tactile experience, ideal for those who favor subtlety and comfort during extended typing sessions. Meanwhile, the WS Dash enhances the auditory experience with its bright sound signature and smooth keystrokes, although more details about its tactile feel would provide a fuller picture. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize a balanced typing feel and sound or seek a more pronounced auditory experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch largely depends on your typing preferences and the sound experience you seek. If you prefer a balance of tactile feedback without being too overpowering, the Ash Gray is an excellent choice. Its medium-light actuation force of 53 grams allows for comfortable and prolonged typing sessions without causing fatigue, making it suitable for both casual users and professionals. The neutral sound profile also ensures that it can be utilized in various environments, whether at home or in an office setting. On the other hand, if you prioritize a more unique auditory experience paired with a smooth keystroke, the WS Dash is your go-to option. With its bright and clacky sound signature, it adds a distinctive character to your typing experience, perfect for enthusiasts who enjoy a lively mechanical feel. The slight increase in actuation force to 55 grams offers just a bit more resistance, which can enhance the tactile response during high-speed typing. Ultimately, your choice boils down to a preference for nuanced tactile feedback and sound dynamics versus a vibrant, auditory engagement in your keystrokes.

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