KTT Ash Gray vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Ash Gray and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear are two popular options that offer unique typing experiences. The Ash Gray switch is best known for its tactile response, providing a delightful blend of feedback without being overwhelming. Its light touch and crisp actuation make it easy to press while still feeling substantial. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switch by Wuque is designed to elevate your office and work experience. With ingeniously designed stem railings and discreet cutouts, these linear switches reduce switch noise while maintaining unmatched responsiveness and a satisfying bottom-out. They offer a distinct typing experience devoid of the usual cushioned sensation, ensuring a seamless blend of tranquility and precision. While the Ash Gray switch falls under the category of 'Easy-to-press', 'Mild', and 'Neutral', the WS Silent Linear switch is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Muted', and 'Subdued'. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The KTT Ash Gray and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear have contrasting housing materials. The Ash Gray features a polycarbonate top housing, while the WS Silent Linear has a nylon top housing. The polycarbonate used in the Ash Gray creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. It is a stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the WS Silent Linear offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the Ash Gray and the WS Silent Linear use nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it absorbs more sound than harder plastics. Therefore, both switches will elicit a similar sound characteristic from their bottom housings. The impact of the bottom housing can be felt when pressing down on the switch, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel.
While the top and bottom housings of the Ash Gray and the WS Silent Linear may differ in material, they each contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The qualities of the respective housing materials are split between the bottom and top of the switch. When releasing a key, the sound is influenced by the top housing, meaning that the polycarbonate top housing of the Ash Gray will give it a distinct sound profile when compared to the WS Silent Linear with its nylon top housing. However, the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel will be consistent between the two switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, there are notable differences. The Ash Gray switch has an actuation force of 38 grams, which is considered medium-light, while its bottom out force is 53 grams, also falling within the medium-light category. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switch's actuation force is unavailable, making it difficult to directly compare. However, its bottom out force is 63.5 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy range.
Considering weight, some users may prefer a lighter switch, like the Ash Gray, as it allows for longer typing sessions and is suitable for work or extended gaming. On the contrary, those seeking a more substantial typing experience may prefer a switch with a heavier force, such as the WS Silent Linear. While the precise actuation force of the WS Silent Linear switch is unknown, the heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams suggests that it would provide a stronger push feel compared to the Ash Gray switch. Hence, users who desire a more forceful keystroke experience might find the WS Silent Linear switch more suitable.
Travel distance
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch both have the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same distance of travel. Both switches offer a consistent and satisfying tactile feedback with every press. Whether you choose the KTT Ash Gray or the WS Silent Linear, you can expect a comfortable typing experience.
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 Silent Linear comes in at $4.20 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 tactile switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that it produces a moderate level of sound, making it suitable for a variety of environments and users, whether they are beginners or advanced typists, and regardless of whether they are using the switch at home or in an office setting. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch is also described as neutral in terms of sound. However, it offers a unique typing experience by reducing switch noise through ingeniously designed stem railings with discreet cutouts. These switches do not use silicone dampeners, resulting in a typing experience devoid of the usual cushioned sensation. The sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
In terms of feel, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch is known for its easy-to-press characteristic. This means that it offers gentle resistance during key presses, requiring minimal force to activate. The light actuation force of these switches makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the Ash Gray switch is described as mild, offering a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch is also described as mild in terms of feel. This means that it provides a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most typists. Overall, the WS Silent Linear switch prioritizes a seamless blend of tranquility and precision.
In conclusion, both the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch offer their unique subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Ash Gray switch combines a light touch with a crisp actuation, providing a delightful blend of tactile feedback, the WS Silent Linear switch reduces switch noise without the use of silicone dampeners and offers unparalleled responsiveness. When it comes to feel, both switches provide easy-to-press characteristics and a mild typing experience. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is not solely dependent on the switch itself but is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps. Ultimately, depending on your specific preferences and requirements, both switches are capable of providing a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To summarize, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch with a light touch and a crisp actuation, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch is an excellent choice. With a bottom out force of 53 grams, it offers a delightful blend of tactile feedback that is not overwhelming but far from being unnoticed. It is best suited for those who prefer a tactile response that is substantial yet unobtrusive.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a quiet and precise typing experience, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch would be ideal for you. With a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, it delivers unparalleled responsiveness while significantly reducing switch noise. Unlike traditional silent switches that use silicone dampeners, the WS Silent Linear switches offer a distinct typing experience that is devoid of the usual cushioned sensation, ensuring a seamless blend of tranquility and precision.
In terms of sound, both switches offer a moderate sound profile, making them suitable for most intents and purposes. However, the WS Silent Linear switch provides a muted and subdued sound, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards, and creating a more peaceful atmosphere.
When it comes to feel, both switches provide a mild typing experience. The Ash Gray switch, being easy-to-press, offers gentle resistance during key presses and requires minimal force to activate. This makes typing effortless and comfortable while reducing finger fatigue. The WS Silent Linear switch also falls under the mild category, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch depends on your preferences. If you value a light touch and crisp actuation with a tactile feedback, go for the Ash Gray switch. If you prioritize a quiet and precise typing experience with reduced switch noise, opt for the WS Silent Linear switch. Consider your typing style, environment, and overall preference to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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