KTT Ash Gray vs. KTT Lightning
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the KTT Lightning switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, there are various factors to consider such as typing experience, sound profile, and personal preferences. Two notable options in this regard are the KTT Ash Gray and the KTT Lightning switches. The Ash Gray switch, known for its tactile feedback, provides a substantial yet unobtrusive response, striking a balance between a light touch and crisp actuation. It offers a delightful blend of tactile feedback that is neither overwhelming nor sandy in sensation. On the other hand, the Lightning switch is popular for its speed and competitiveness. These switches are perfect for situations where milliseconds matter, ensuring a slick typing experience and a distinct clacky sound profile. While the Ash Gray switch is categorized as easy-to-press, mild, and neutral, the Lightning switch is characterized by its clacky, high-pitched, chirpy, subtle, and polished qualities. However, beyond these generalities, let's dive deeper into the specifics of each switch so that you can make the best decision based on your individual needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.00 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 used in the KTT Ash Gray and KTT Lightning switches are quite similar. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, allowing for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the polycarbonate's translucency is especially beneficial for those using RGB lighting. Therefore, both the Ash Gray and Lightning switches will provide similar results in terms of sound and aesthetic appeal.
However, there is a difference when it comes to the bottom housing material. The Ash Gray switch utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which introduces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switch. On the other hand, the Lightning switch also features a nylon bottom housing, providing the same qualities of a deeper and fuller sound profile.
When comparing the overall impact of the housing materials, it is important to consider the areas they influence. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, although the Ash Gray and Lightning switches may slightly differ in their bottom housing materials, the resulting sound experience will be quite similar due to the similarities in their top housing materials.
In conclusion, both the KTT Ash Gray and KTT Lightning switches employ polycarbonate top housings, delivering a sharper and crisper sound profile. However, they diverge in their bottom housing materials, with the Ash Gray incorporating nylon for a deeper and fuller sound, while the Lightning also utilizes nylon for similar sound characteristics. Nevertheless, the impact of the housing materials is split between the top and bottom of the switches, ensuring a comparable sound experience overall. Both switches provide excellent options for those seeking distinct sound profiles and compatible with RGB lighting setups.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch, one of the main differences lies in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Ash Gray tactile switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 38 grams compared to the Lightning's 43 grams. This means that the Ash Gray requires slightly less force to trigger a keystroke. On the other hand, the bottom out force of the Ash Gray is heavier at 53 grams, while the Lightning has a lower bottom out force of 50 grams. This indicates that the Ash Gray provides a more substantial typing experience, requiring a stronger push for bottoming out.
Considering the weight aspect, some individuals may prefer the Ash Gray tactile switch due to its lighter actuation force, allowing for longer periods of typing without fatigue. This makes it a suitable choice for those who use their keyboards extensively at work or during long gaming sessions. On the contrary, the Lightning linear switch would be preferred by individuals seeking a slightly stronger push feel, providing them with a more substantial typing experience.
Despite these differences, it is important to note that both switches still fall within the realm of medium-light or light actuation and bottom out forces. Hence, while the Ash Gray may be slightly lighter in terms of actuation force and heavier in terms of bottom out force, the overall results and experiences may still be relatively similar for most users.
Travel distance
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch have different travel distances. The Ash Gray has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Lightning has a travel distance of 3 mm. Therefore, the Ash Gray has a longer travel distance compared to the Lightning switch.
In terms of traditional standards, a 4.0 mm travel distance is considered the most common, while 3.0 mm is considered more shallow. However, shorter travel distances have become more popular, particularly among gamers who prioritize faster response times. If you value responsiveness, the shorter travel distance of the Lightning switch would be the better option.
On the other hand, some people find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt and may prefer a switch with a longer travel distance for a more substantial feel. In this case, the Ash Gray tactile switch would be the preferred choice.
Ultimately, the decision on which switch to choose depends on personal preference and the specific needs of the user. The Ash Gray with its longer travel distance offers a more substantial feel, while the Lightning with its shorter travel distance provides faster response times.
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 Lightning comes in at $3.41 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 switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate actuation force requirement and produces a moderate sound when pressed. This makes it suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or work. On the other hand, the KTT Lightning switch is described as clacky, high-pitched, and chirpy. It produces a sharp and snappy sound, with a crisp and bright tone. If you prefer a sharper and more percussive sound profile, the Lightning switch would be a good choice.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Ash Gray switch is known for being easy-to-press. It offers gentle resistance during key presses, requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The typing feel of the Ash Gray switch is described as mild, offering a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. It falls in a safe, middle-ground zone that is approachable to most users.
On the other hand, the KTT Lightning switch is described as having a subtle resistance which is not feather-light but still maintains a light typing feel. This means that the Lightning switch provides a slightly more noticeable resistance during key presses compared to the Ash Gray switch. However, it still offers a comfortable typing experience. The Lightning switch is also described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience. This is due to either the materials used or factory lubing, which reduces friction and ensures smooth key travel.
Overall, the KTT Ash Gray switch offers a tactile response that is substantial yet unobtrusive, with a light touch and crisp actuation. It provides a delightful blend of tactile feedback that is not overwhelming but far from the unnoticed "sandy" sensation. The Ash Gray switch has a neutral sound profile and is easy to press, offering a low-impact and effortless typing experience.
On the other hand, the KTT Lightning switch is a "speed" switch, perfect for situations where milliseconds can determine success or failure. It provides a slick typing feel with a clacky sound profile. The Lightning switch has a subtle resistance and a polished finish, resulting in a comfortable and smooth typing experience.
If you are looking for a keyboard switch with similar sound qualities, the KTT Ash Gray switch would be a good choice. While the Lightning switch may have a more pronounced and high-pitched sound, the Ash Gray switch offers a moderate and neutral sound profile that suits a wide range of purposes. Similarly, if you prefer a light and easy typing feel, the Ash Gray switch provides a low-impact and effortless typing experience similar to the Lightning switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch that offers a delightful blend of tactile feedback without being overwhelming, the KTT Ash Gray would be your best choice. With its medium-light bottom out force and easy-to-press feel, typing on the Ash Gray switch will be effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Additionally, the Ash Gray has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for both beginner and advanced users in any environment, whether it be at home or work.
On the other hand, if you prioritize speed and responsiveness, the KTT Lightning linear switch is the way to go. With its light bottom out force and subtle typing feel, the Lightning switch offers a slick type experience that can make a difference in gaming or fast-paced typing situations where milliseconds count. The Lightning switch has a clacky sound profile, producing a sharp and percussive sound that adds to its overall energetic feel.
Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on your personal preferences and usage scenarios. If you value a tactile typing experience with a neutral sound profile, go for the Ash Gray. If speed and responsiveness are more important to you and you prefer a clacky sound profile, opt for the Lightning. Both switches are excellent choices, and whichever you choose, you can expect a high-quality mechanical keyboard experience. In closing, KTT offers a range of switches to cater to different needs, ensuring that there is a perfect fit for every keyboard enthusiast.
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