KTT Ash Gray vs. Wuque Studio WS POM+
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the right mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Ash Gray and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ offer distinctly different experiences that cater to various typing preferences. The Ash Gray, a tactile switch, is designed to provide a substantial yet unobtrusive tactile response that combines a light touch with crisp actuation, making it ideal for those who enjoy a satisfying feedback without being overwhelmed. Its classification as 'Easy-to-press,' 'Mild,' and 'Neutral' highlights its versatility, appealing to both casual typists and gamers. In contrast, the WS POM+, a linear switch, boasts an all-POM design that delivers a smooth keystroke and a deep, resonant "thock" sound signature, providing an auditory pleasure alongside its silky feel. This switch is perfect for those who prefer a fluid typing experience with minimal resistance. While the Ash Gray caters to users seeking tactile feedback and moderate engagement, the WS POM+ is ideal for those who prioritize smoothness and sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
POM
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
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Ash Gray and the Wuque Studio WS POM+, one notable difference lies in the top housing material. The KTT Ash Gray features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiffness and acoustical properties that produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This quality not only enhances the overall auditory experience but also makes polycarbonate particularly suitable for RGB lighting applications due to its translucency. In contrast, the WS POM+ utilizes a POM (Polyoxymethylene) top housing. POM is celebrated for creating a deeper, more muted sound profile, resulting in a unique auditory experience that contrasts with the Ash Gray’s upper end clarity. Thus, while both switches aim to deliver engaging auditory experiences, the tonal characteristics differ significantly based on the top housing material.
Moving to the bottom housing, both switches share similarities in that they both leverage POM, although the KTT Ash Gray opts for nylon. The nylon bottom housing of the Ash Gray is recognized for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is attributed to nylon’s relatively soft nature, which absorbs sound more effectively than harder materials, yielding a duller and rounder acoustic experience when bottoming out. On the other hand, the WS POM+ retains a POM bottom housing that similarly generates a deep, muted sound. As both switches use a softer material for the bottom housing, they both offer a focused auditory depth that enriches the typing experience, showing a compatibility in sound design despite their material differences.
In summary, the hybridization of materials in these two switches demonstrates how sound profiles can be sculpted through the interaction of different housing compositions. For the KTT Ash Gray, the pairing of polycarbonate and nylon allows for a diverse sound spectrum, producing a crisp top-end while still maintaining a rich bottom-end warmth. Meanwhile, the WS POM+ offers a more uniform sound profile, effectively channeling the deep acoustics characteristic of POM. Although differing in material composition, both switches can deliver pleasing auditory results due to their thoughtful material selection, illustrating how both contrasting and complementary attributes can culminate in an engaging typing experience.
Weight
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch both offer medium-light actuation and bottom out forces, but they exhibit some distinct differences in feel and weight. The Ash Gray switch boasts an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the WS POM+ has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that the Ash Gray is the lighter option, making it potentially more comfortable for extended typing or gaming sessions, as users may find it less fatiguing. Conversely, the WS POM+ provides a heavier feedback, which might appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Overall, while both switches fall into the medium-light category, the Ash Gray will deliver a lighter touch, whereas the WS POM+ will provide a firmer push feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch, the KTT Ash Gray features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the WS POM+ offers a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Ash Gray the shorter option of the two, which might appeal to gamers or users seeking quicker response times. On the other hand, the WS POM+ with its longer travel distance provides a bit more depth, potentially offering a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a hearty feel when pressing down on keys. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more common in modern keyboards, but if you desire the quickest actuation, the Ash Gray might be the better choice.
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 POM+ comes in at $3.90 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
The sound profile of the KTT Ash Gray switch is characterized as neutral, striking a balance that caters well to both beginners and seasoned typists. It produces a moderate actuation sound that complements its tactile feedback, making it suitable for various environments, whether you're at home or in an office setting. This versatile sound makes it a compelling choice for those who value a subtle auditory presence. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switch is noted for its deep, satisfying "thock" sound signature, creating a more pronounced auditory experience that stands out while typing. This switch promises a more resonant and enjoyable sound, particularly for enthusiasts who appreciate the acoustics of their keystrokes.
In terms of feel, the KTT Ash Gray provides an easy-to-press experience, requiring minimal force for actuation. This quality reduces finger fatigue during prolonged use, making it an excellent option for those who type for extended periods. Paired with a mild tactile response, the Ash Gray ensures a comfortable yet engaging typing experience. Conversely, the feel of the WS POM+ remains unspecified, but given its reputation for delivering an unparalleled typing experience, we can infer that it also offers a pleasing tactile engagement, likely favoring a smooth keystroke similar to other premium linear switches.
In summary, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch excels in delivering a balanced sound and comfortable feel, making it versatile for everyday use. Its accessibility combined with a satisfying tactile experience appeals to a wide audience. Meanwhile, the WS POM+ stands out with its rich acoustic profile and is celebrated for its smooth operation, potentially providing a different yet enjoyable typing sensation. While both switches cater to distinct preferences—one focused on a neutral yet engaging typing experience and the other on pronounced acoustics—either choice promises a satisfying mechanical experience depending on what qualities resonate most with you.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch should be guided by your specific typing preferences and the environments in which you plan to use them. If you appreciate a tactile feedback that’s satisfying yet not overly pronounced, the Ash Gray might be the better fit for you. Its easy-to-press design and neutral sound profile make it well-suited for a variety of settings, whether you're typing at home or in a quiet office environment. The moderate actuation force of 53 grams results in a comfortable typing experience, reducing fatigue during long sessions. Conversely, if you're seeking a smooth, linear feel with an appealing sound, the WS POM+ offers its own distinct advantages. With its slightly higher actuation force of 55 grams and deep "thock" sound signature, the WS POM+ is ideal for those who prefer a more immersive and satisfying auditory experience while typing, making it great for environments where a bit more noise is acceptable. Ultimately, your choice should reflect whether you value tactile feedback or a smooth keystroke experience more, allowing you to optimize your typing journey according to your style and needs.
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