KTT Ash Gray vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Ash Gray and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct features for different preferences. The Ash Gray switch is designed to provide a tactile response that is both noticeable and pleasing, without being overwhelming. It has an easy-to-press feel and a crisp actuation, making it an ideal choice for those who enjoy a light touch while typing. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile switch from Wuque is crafted with precision to strike a delicate balance between tactility and noise reduction. It offers a medium level of tactility and features stem railings with small cutouts, effectively minimizing switch sound without compromising on a satisfying bottom-out feel and responsive return. This makes it a great option for individuals working in office settings or environments where noise reduction is essential. 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
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 housing materials of the KTT Ash Gray and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches differ in terms of their sound profiles and physical properties. The Ash Gray features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. In contrast, the WS Silent Tactile utilizes a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound profile. Despite these differences, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, each with its unique sound characteristics.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Ash Gray and the WS Silent Tactile switches incorporate a nylon material. With nylon as the base, both switches elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, effectively absorbs sound compared to harder plastics. Consequently, the nylon bottom housing creates a duller and rounder sound experience for both switches. Although the bottom housing plays a significant role in the sound and feel of the bottom-out action, the top housing still influences the sound produced when a key is released.
It is worth noting that when a switch has different materials for the top and bottom housings, the characteristics brought by each housing material are divided between the top and bottom of the switch. This means that when pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the softer nylon bottom housing will be felt, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing, whether polycarbonate or nylon, will primarily influence the sound produced upon key release. Ultimately, while the KTT Ash Gray and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile differ in their housing materials, they both offer a satisfying typing experience with their unique sound profiles dependent on the top and bottom housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch, there are some notable differences to consider. The Ash Gray has an actuation force of 38 grams, providing a medium-light touch, while the WS Silent Tactile's actuation force remains unknown. As for the bottom out force, the Ash Gray requires 53 grams of force, which is also considered medium-light. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it medium-heavy.
Weight becomes an important factor to consider, as some individuals prefer lighter switches to enable longer typing sessions or extended gaming periods, particularly if they bring their keyboard to work or engage in lengthy gaming sessions. Conversely, others may prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience, making heavier options more suitable for their needs.
While the exact actuation force of the WS Silent Tactile switch remains unknown, if it aligns with the medium-light actuation force of the Ash Gray, users can expect similar results in terms of triggering a keystroke. However, if a heavier actuation force is preferred, the WS Silent Tactile may provide a more substantial typing experience due to its medium-heavy bottom out force of 63.5 grams, compared to the Ash Gray's 53 grams.
In summary, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch is lighter in terms of the actuation force and bottom out force, while the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch is slightly heavier in its bottom out force. The variation in force between these switches allows individuals to choose the option that best suits their preference for typing experience and duration.
Travel distance
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch both have a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that both switches will provide a similar experience when pressed, as the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom is the same for both. Whether using the Ash Gray or the WS Silent Tactile, users can expect a consistent and comfortable travel distance, resulting in a satisfying 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 Tactile 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
When it comes to sound, both the KTT Ash Gray and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches fall within the category of neutral switches. This means that they have a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making them suitable for a variety of purposes and environments. However, the WS Silent Tactile switches have an additional quality of being muted, which means they produce a softer and quieter sound compared to regular mechanical switches. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen. Overall, both switches offer a pleasant and unobtrusive sound experience.
In terms of feel, the Ash Gray switches are described as easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance and requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended sessions. The switches also have a mild tactile feedback, providing a pleasant typing experience that is approachable to most users. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile switches are described as accented, offering a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. They have a snappy and reactive feel, creating an immersive typing sensation. Similar to the Ash Gray, they also fall within the mild category, offering a gentle typing experience that is suitable for a wide range of users.
Considering all the available information, both the KTT Ash Gray and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches have their own unique qualities. In terms of sound, they are both neutral switches, but the WS Silent Tactile has the extra benefit of being muted, resulting in a softer and quieter typing experience. When it comes to feel, the Ash Gray offers an easy-to-press and mild tactile experience, while the WS Silent Tactile provides an accented and invigorating feedback. However, both switches fall within the mild category, ensuring a comfortable and approachable typing experience for most individuals. Whether you choose the KTT Ash Gray or the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile, you can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel, with subtle differences that may cater to personal preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are looking for a switch with a light touch and a crisp actuation, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch would be a great choice. It combines a delightful blend of tactile feedback without overwhelming your fingers, providing a substantial yet unobtrusive typing experience. The Ash Gray switch is versatile and suitable for both beginners and advanced users, making it suitable for use at home or work. It has a neutral sound profile, which means it produces a moderate level of sound that is suitable for most situations.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a silent and tranquil typing experience, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch is the way to go. These switches strike a delicate balance between tactility and noise reduction, offering a medium level of tactility without compromising on silence. The WS Silent Tactile switches feature ingenious stem railings with small cutouts that effectively minimize switch sound while delivering a satisfyingly crisp bottom-out and responsive return. These switches are different from traditional silent switches as they do not use silicone dampeners, providing a typing experience that is free from the usual padded feel found in most silent switches. The WS Silent Tactile switches also have a neutral sound profile, but with a muted quality that produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches.
Ultimately, your choice between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch will depend on your preference for touch and sound. If you prefer a light and easy-to-press feel with a moderate sound, the Ash Gray switch will be the ideal option. However, if you prioritize a silent and tranquil experience with a medium level of tactility, the WS Silent Tactile switch will be the perfect fit. Both switches offer a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users. Whatever you choose, both switches are designed to enhance your typing experience and provide a satisfying and responsive feel.
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