KTT Ash Gray vs. KTT Cream Yellow
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the KTT Cream Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the KTT Ash Gray and the KTT Cream Yellow. The Ash Gray switch is known for its tactile feedback that strikes the perfect balance between being noticeable without being overwhelming. With an easy-to-press feel and mild actuation, it provides a delightful blend of tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow switch offers a distinctively clacky sound, thanks to its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem that provides resonant audio feedback. Its lengthened spring also contributes to a uniquely bouncy typing feel. While both switches have their own merits, it's important to dive deeper to understand which one would best suit your preferences and typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The KTT Ash Gray and KTT Cream Yellow keyboards both feature polycarbonate top housings. This material choice leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, creating a clear and resonant typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting effects to enhance the visual appeal of the switches. As a result, both the Ash Gray and Cream Yellow keyboards will offer similar sound qualities and aesthetic benefits due to their shared use of polycarbonate top housings.
However, when it comes to the bottom housings, there is a difference between the two keyboards. The Ash Gray utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Cream Yellow also features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This means that typing on both the Ash Gray and Cream Yellow keyboards will elicit a duller and rounder sound, enhancing the overall auditory experience. So, while the top housing contributes to the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, giving each keyboard a distinctive touch.
In summary, the KTT Ash Gray and KTT Cream Yellow keyboards share certain qualities due to their polycarbonate top housings, such as a sharp, high-pitched sound and a clear and resonant typing experience. However, the distinction arises when considering their nylon bottom housings. Both keyboards will offer a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to the softer and more sound-absorbent nature of nylon. Ultimately, the choice between the Ash Gray and Cream Yellow keyboards will come down to personal preference in terms of the specific qualities each housing material brings to the typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch, some differences can be observed. The Ash Gray switch has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams compared to the Cream Yellow switch, which requires 50 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. Similarly, the Ash Gray switch has a lighter bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Cream Yellow switch requires 58 grams.
Considering weight as a factor, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Ash Gray switch more suitable since it requires less force to trigger a keystroke and bottom out. This can be beneficial for longer typing sessions, such as in a work environment or during extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a stronger push feel and desire a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Cream Yellow switch. The heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the Cream Yellow switch can provide a satisfying tactile feedback and a sense of solidity while typing.
In conclusion, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch offers a lighter actuation force and bottom out force, while the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch requires slightly more force for both actuation and bottoming out. The choice between the two switches ultimately depends on the individual's preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that both switches will provide the same tactile feedback and experience when pressing down on a key. Whether you prefer a tactile or linear switch, both options will offer a consistent and satisfying travel distance of 3.5 mm. Therefore, users can expect to have a similar typing or gaming experience with either switch, as their travel distances are equal.
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 KTT Cream Yellow has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cream Yellow for $2.55.
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 switch provides a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate actuation force requirement and produces a sound that is neither too loud nor too soft. It is suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and can be used at home or in a work environment. The KTT Cream Yellow switch, on the other hand, is described as clacky. When pressed, it produces a sharp and snappy sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the KTT Ash Gray switch offers an easy-to-press experience. It has a light actuation force, requiring minimal force to activate. This makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Overall, it provides a responsive and low-impact typing feel. Additionally, the Ash Gray switch is described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Its qualities fall within a safe, middle-ground zone that most users will find approachable.
On the other hand, the KTT Cream Yellow switch provides a bouncy feel. It offers a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, giving the keys a lively feel and providing rebound when pressed. This unique characteristic results from its shortened bottom-out distance, long-pole stem, and lengthened spring.
In conclusion, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities. The Ash Gray switch provides a neutral sound profile and an easy-to-press, mild feel. It delivers a tactile response that is substantial yet unobtrusive, with a delightful blend of tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow switch offers a clacky sound and a bouncy feel, providing resonant audio feedback and a uniquely lively typing experience. Depending on the user's preferences, they can choose between a moderate and neutral experience or a sharper and more energetic one. It is important to keep in mind that individual preferences may vary, and the choice of keyboard board and keycaps can also influence the overall sound and feel of the switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a mechanical keyboard switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a light touch with a crisp actuation, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch would be the ideal choice for you. Its tactile feedback is substantial yet unobtrusive, providing a delightful blend of tactile feedback that is not overwhelming. Additionally, the Ash Gray switch offers an easy-to-press feel, with gentle resistance and minimal force required for activation, resulting in an effortless and comfortable typing experience. Its mild characteristics make it approachable for most users, ensuring a pleasant and low-impact typing feel. Overall, the Ash Gray switch is suitable for both beginners and advanced users, whether you plan to use it at home or work.
On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that delivers a distinctively clacky sound and provides a bouncy typing feel, the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch would be the more fitting option. Its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem contribute to a resonant and crisp audio feedback, producing a sharp and snappy sound with each key press. The Cream Yellow switch also offers a uniquely bouncy sensation, giving you a spring-like or elastic feedback when typing, enhancing the liveliness of your keystrokes.
Ultimately, the choice between the Ash Gray tactile switch and the Cream Yellow linear switch depends on your personal preferences for sound and feel. If you prefer a neutral sound profile and an easy-to-press feel, the Ash Gray would be more suitable. However, if you enjoy a clacky sound with a bouncy typing feel, the Cream Yellow may be the better option for you. Consider your typing style and the overall typing experience you desire, and make your decision based on that. Happy typing!
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