KTT Ash Gray vs. TTC Bluish White
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the TTC Bluish White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options stand out: the KTT Ash Gray and the TTC Bluish White. Both switches offer a tactile typing experience, but they have their own unique characteristics that set them apart. The Ash Gray switch is designed to provide a tactile response that is substantial yet unobtrusive, with a light touch and crisp actuation. This switch offers a delightful blend of tactile feedback that is not too overwhelming, making it ideal for those who prefer a more neutral typing experience. On the other hand, the Bluish White switch is known for providing a satisfyingly poppy typing experience with a snappy sound profile. This switch has a buttery feel and a subtle, polished, and low-pitched feedback that adds a touch of sophistication to your typing. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Ash Gray and the TTC Bluish White switches share many similarities. Both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate allows for the effective use of RGB lighting. Additionally, the nylon bottom housings of both switches create a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
However, there are slight differences between the two switches. The Ash Gray switch uses polycarbonate for its top housing, while the Bluish White switch also utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing. This commonality means that both switches will produce similar sound profiles and lighting effects. Furthermore, the nylon bottom housing of the Ash Gray contributes to the switch's bottom-out sound and feel, while the Bluish White switch features a nylon bottom housing that also enhances the sound when a key is released.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Ash Gray and TTC Bluish White switches may come down to personal preference. Both switches offer a clear and resonant sound profile due to their polycarbonate top housings, as well as a deeper and fuller sound profile due to their nylon bottom housings. Whether one prefers the impact on the bottom-out sound or the sound when releasing a key may be the determining factor in choosing between these two switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the TTC Bluish White tactile switch, it is evident that they differ in terms of force required for keystrokes. The Ash Gray has a slightly lighter actuation force of 38 grams, compared to the Bluish White's 42 grams. Conversely, when it comes to bottoming out or pressing all the way down, the Ash Gray requires a force of 53 grams, whereas the Bluish White requires 50 grams.
While both switches fall within the medium-light range when it comes to actuation force, the Ash Gray is slightly lighter compared to the Bluish White. This lighter actuation force may appeal to individuals who prefer a more lightweight typing experience, allowing them to type for longer periods of time without experiencing fatigue. It would be a suitable choice for those who use keyboards extensively for work or indulge in extended gaming sessions.
On the other hand, the Bluish White switch offers a more substantial typing experience with its slightly heavier actuation force. This can give typists a stronger push feel, making each keystroke feel more deliberate and substantial. These individuals would prioritize a stronger push feel and may not mind sacrificing some typing endurance for a more substantial tactile feedback.
In terms of bottom out force, the Ash Gray requires a slightly heavier force of 53 grams compared to the Bluish White's 50 grams. While the difference is minimal, it may contribute to a slightly more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a more substantial and robust feel when fully pressing down the keys.
Overall, while the Ash Gray and the Bluish White switches have comparable characteristics, there are subtle differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. Choosing between the two would ultimately depend on an individual's preference for either a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the TTC Bluish White tactile switch 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 tactile feedback at this distance, providing a similar typing experience for users.
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 TTC Bluish White has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Bluish White for $4.18.
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 KTT Ash Gray tactile switch is best known for its delightful blend of tactile feedback, providing a substantial yet unobtrusive touch with a crisp actuation. This switch offers a neutral sound profile, which means it has a moderate sound that is suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user and whether you are using it at home or in a work environment. The Ash Gray switch also offers an easy-to-press feel, requiring minimal force to activate and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Its mild characteristics make it approachable to most users, offering a responsive and low-impact typing experience.
On the other hand, the TTC Bluish White tactile switch is best known for its satisfyingly poppy typing experience. This switch provides a low-pitched sound profile, which means it has a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Similar to the Ash Gray switch, the Bluish White switch also offers a mild feel, providing a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. It has a buttery and polished finish, resulting in a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Additionally, the Bluish White switch has a stepped design, allowing users to feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel during the keystroke.
In conclusion, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the TTC Bluish White tactile switch have their own unique subjective qualities. The Ash Gray switch offers a neutral sound profile and an easy-to-press feel, providing a moderate sound and a light touch with a crisp actuation. Alternatively, the Bluish White switch offers a low-pitched sound profile and a mild feel, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone with a gentle typing experience. Both switches are suitable for most users and purposes, ensuring a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you are looking for a keyboard switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a tactile response that is substantial yet unobtrusive, then the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch is a great choice for you. It offers a light touch with a crisp actuation, providing a delightful blend of tactile feedback that is not too overwhelming. Additionally, the Ash Gray switch has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user and whether you plan to use it at home or work. In terms of feel, the Ash Gray switch is easy-to-press and provides a low-impact typing experience, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions.
On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and desire a satisfyingly poppy typing experience with a snappy sound profile, then the TTC Bluish White tactile switch is a better option for you. The Bluish White switch has a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it even lighter than the Ash Gray switch. It offers a low-pitched sound profile, which provides a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. In terms of feel, the Bluish White switch offers a buttery and mild typing experience. It provides a smooth and fluid keystroke, resulting in a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Additionally, the switch has a stepped feel, meaning you can feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel during the keystroke.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Ash Gray and the TTC Bluish White tactile switch depends on your personal preferences. If you prioritize a medium-light bottom out force, a subtle yet noticeable tactile feedback, and an easy-to-press and low-impact typing feel, then the Ash Gray switch is the way to go. However, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a snappy sound profile, a buttery and mild typing experience, and a switch with a stepped feel, then the Bluish White switch is the better choice for you. Consider your typing style, preferences, and use cases to make an informed decision between these two excellent switches.
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