KTT Ash Gray vs. Wuque Studio WS Red

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that often come up are the KTT Ash Gray, a tactile switch, and the Wuque Studio WS Red, a linear switch. The Ash Gray switch is designed to provide a tactile response that strikes a perfect balance between being noticeable without being overwhelming. It combines a light touch with a crisp actuation, delivering a delightful blend of tactile feedback. On the other hand, the WS Red switch offers a bouncy and responsive typing experience with its 22mm double-stage spring. While it may have a heavier actuation force, it adds a touch of weight to each keystroke, resulting in a satisfying and substantial typing feel. However, let's delve deeper into the specifics of each switch so you can make the best decision based on your personal preference and typing style.

By the numbers

KTT Ash Gray Tactile

Wuque Studio WS Red Linear

$3.00

$2.55 per 10

$3.50 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the KTT Ash Gray and the Wuque Studio WS Red switches differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Ash Gray utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the Ash Gray's nylon bottom housing further enhances the sound profile by eliciting a deeper and fuller sound due to nylon's ability to absorb more sound.

In contrast, the WS Red uses a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon, being a relatively softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, leading to a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the WS Red's nylon bottom housing contributes to this enhanced sound profile by absorbing more sound and creating a deeper typing experience. Overall, the WS Red offers a different auditory experience compared to the Ash Gray, with a focus on a deeper and fuller sound.

Although the KTT Ash Gray and Wuque Studio WS Red differ in their housing materials, they both utilize nylon for their bottom housing. As a result, both switches offer a similar experience in terms of sound, with a deeper and fuller sound profile. However, the material difference in their top housings sets them apart. The Ash Gray's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound, while the WS Red's nylon top housing offers a deeper and rounder sound. Therefore, depending on personal preferences, one switch may be preferred over the other based on the desired sound experience.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, it is evident that they have different characteristics. The Ash Gray switch has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it medium-light and offering a relatively lighter typing experience. In contrast, the WS Red switch's actuation force is unknown, but it has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which falls into the medium-heavy category.

For those who prefer a lighter switch, the Ash Gray would be a suitable choice as it allows for prolonged typing without causing fatigue. This lighter actuation force is particularly beneficial for users who spend long hours typing at work or engaging in lengthy gaming sessions. However, for individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel and appreciate a stronger push on the keys, the WS Red switch with its higher bottom out force would provide a more satisfying typing experience.

Although the actuation force for the WS Red switch is not specified, it is important to note that a higher bottom out force often correlates with a higher actuation force. Therefore, it is likely that the actuation force of the WS Red switch would be heavier than that of the Ash Gray switch. Consequently, individuals seeking a heavier switch with increased resistance would find the WS Red switch more suitable for their typing preferences.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, there is a slight difference between the two. The Ash Gray has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the WS Red has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the WS Red has a slightly deeper keypress compared to the Ash Gray. For those who prefer a more traditional travel distance, both switches fall within the range commonly found in keyboards. However, for gamers or individuals who prioritize faster response times, the shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm in the Ash Gray may be preferable. On the other hand, those who prefer a deeper keypress and a more substantial feel may opt for the WS Red with its slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the KTT Ash Gray switch provides a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound level, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. The sound produced by a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, so keep that in mind when considering the overall sound experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Red switch's sound characteristics are not mentioned, so it is unclear how it compares to the Ash Gray in terms of sound.

Moving on to feel, the KTT Ash Gray switch is described as easy-to-press and offers gentle resistance during key presses. This means that it requires minimal force to activate, resulting in an effortless and comfortable typing experience. The light actuation force of the Ash Gray switch reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions, ensuring a pleasant typing feel. Additionally, the Ash Gray switch is categorized as mild, which means it offers a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. This mildness provides an approachable sound and feel that will likely be enjoyed by most users. Unfortunately, there is no description provided for the feel of the Wuque Studio WS Red switch, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison to the Ash Gray in terms of feel.

Overall, based on the available information, it can be concluded that the KTT Ash Gray switch offers a delightful blend of tactile feedback, a neutral sound profile, an easy-to-press feel with minimal force required, and a gentle typing experience. While the Wuque Studio WS Red switch lacks specific details about its sound and feel, it is likely that it will deliver a bouncy and responsive typing experience with a familiar sound signature due to its classic material blend. If you are looking for a switch with similar qualities to the Ash Gray but are unsure about the WS Red, it would be best to do further research or consider trying out both switches to determine which one suits your preferences.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch with a light touch and a subtle tactile feedback, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch is the way to go. It has a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it medium-light and easy to press. With its gentle resistance and low-impact typing feel, the Ash Gray switch offers an effortless and comfortable typing experience that minimizes finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Its sound profile is described as neutral, making it suitable for most intents and purposes whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or work.

On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier actuation force and a more substantial typing feel, the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch would be a better choice. With a bottom out force of 67 grams, the WS Red switch adds a touch of weight to each keystroke, delivering a satisfying and substantial typing experience. While there is no specific information provided about its sound profile, the WS Red switch is described to have a classic material blend, suggesting a familiar sound signature.

Ultimately, the decision between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch depends on your personal preference for typing feel and actuation force. Consider whether you prefer a light and easy-to-press switch or a heavier and more substantial one. Additionally, pay attention to the sound profile that suits your needs, whether it is a neutral sound or a familiar sound signature. By considering these factors and your individual typing preferences, you can make an informed choice between the two switches. In the end, the most important thing is to find a switch that enhances your typing experience and meets your specific requirements.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Ash Gray Tactile

$3.00

$2.55 per 10

Learn more

Wuque Studio WS Red Linear

$3.50 per 10

Learn more