KTT Ash Gray vs. Wuque Studio WS Jade
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the Wuque Studio WS Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Ash Gray and the Wuque Studio WS Jade offer unique experiences for different preferences. The Ash Gray switch is a tactile switch, designed to provide a subtle yet satisfying tactile response with a light touch and crisp actuation. On the other hand, the WS Jade switch is a linear switch known for its metallic insert in the stem base, creating a bright and resonant sound profile, along with a creamy and smooth typing experience. While the Ash Gray is characterized as 'Easy-to-press', 'Mild', and 'Neutral', the WS Jade is described as 'Clacky', 'Marbly', 'Resonant', 'Silky', and 'Creamy'. Each switch has its own strengths and appeal, catering 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
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
UPE
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
18mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The KTT Ash Gray and the Wuque Studio WS Jade both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Ash Gray utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound compared to the WS Jade's POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. While polycarbonate is known for its stiffness and clarity in sound, POM offers a more pleasing and unique sound experience. The choice between these two materials ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Ash Gray features a nylon material that produces a deeper and fuller sound, while the WS Jade incorporates a POM bottom housing that also creates a similar deep and muted sound profile. Both nylon and POM are softer plastics that absorb more sound, resulting in a rounder and duller sound compared to harder plastics. The similarities in the bottom housing materials of these switches ensure a consistent sound experience, with slight variations based on the specific qualities of each material.
Overall, the combination of top and bottom housing materials plays a significant role in determining the overall sound profile of a switch. While the Ash Gray and WS Jade may differ in their top housing materials, the similarities in their bottom housing materials offer a consistent experience in terms of sound profile. Whether you prefer the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate or the deeper and more muted sound of POM, both switches provide a unique typing experience that caters to different preferences in sound. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences in sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch, it is clear that the Ash Gray has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the WS Jade. The Ash Gray has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a medium-light switch. On the other hand, the WS Jade has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, placing it in the medium category. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Ash Gray for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those seeking a more substantial feel may opt for the WS Jade. Both switches provide a unique typing experience based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences.
Travel distance
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular for their faster response times, especially among gamers. The difference in travel distance between the two switches is minimal, but for those who prefer a slightly deeper key press, the WS Jade may be the better option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and key feel.
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 Jade comes in at $4.30 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 sound profile that is suitable for a variety of typing scenarios, whether you are a beginner or an advanced user. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Jade switch provides a clacky, marbly, and resonant sound experience, with a sharp, bright, and percussive sound profile that can be quite immersive. The metallic insert in the WS Jade switch's stem base contributes to its unique sound characteristics, while the Ash Gray switch maintains a more moderate and versatile sound quality. Ultimately, your choice of keycaps and keyboard will also impact the sound produced by these switches.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Ash Gray switch is described as easy-to-press and mild, offering a gentle typing experience with minimal force required for activation. This makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Conversely, the Wuque Studio WS Jade switch provides a silky and creamy typing experience, thanks to its smooth actuation and rock-solid bottom-out. The WS Jade switch aims to enhance the overall smoothness of typing and minimize resistance when pressing and releasing keys, creating a luxurious typing sensation.
In conclusion, the KTT Ash Gray switch excels in providing a tactile yet unobtrusive typing experience with a moderate sound profile and easy-to-press feel. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Jade switch offers a unique blend of metallic, clacky, marbly, and resonant sound characteristics, paired with a silky and creamy typing feel for a more luxurious typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different typing preferences. Ultimately, your choice between the Ash Gray and WS Jade switches will depend on your specific preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a light touch with a crisp actuation and a tactile response that's substantial yet unobtrusive, the Ash Gray may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you appreciate a uniquely creamy and smooth typing experience paired with a bright metallic sound profile, the WS Jade could be the switch to go for. Additionally, if you lean towards a neutral sound profile with easy-to-press characteristics, the Ash Gray might be more suited to your preferences. However, if you enjoy a clacky or marbly sound profile along with a silky typing experience, the WS Jade could be the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for tactile feedback, sound profile, and typing feel.
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