KTT Ash Gray vs. Wuque Studio WS Yellow
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a mechanical keyboard switch and are looking for something tactile, yet unobtrusive, the KTT Ash Gray switch may be your go-to option. With its light touch and crisp actuation, this switch offers a satisfying tactile feedback without being overwhelming. It falls under the categories of being easy-to-press, mild, and neutral. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch that provides a classic typing experience with cutting-edge engineering, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switch could be a perfect fit for you. With its 22mm double-stage spring, these switches deliver a delightful bounce and a familiar sound that enthusiasts love. They are categorized as creamy, mild, and polished. However, let's go beyond these generalities and dive deeper into the details so you can decide which switch suits your needs best.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The KTT Ash Gray and Wuque Studio WS Yellow differ in terms of their housing materials. The Ash Gray features a polycarbonate top housing, while the WS Yellow utilizes a nylon top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Ash Gray creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which allows for clearer and more resonant sound production. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for RGB lighting. On the other hand, the WS Yellow's nylon top housing generates a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softness of the nylon material absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the Ash Gray and the WS Yellow employ nylon material. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings provides a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon, being softer than harder plastics, absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound experience. Therefore, in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel, both switches will offer similar qualities.
It is important to note that the properties of the housing material are divided between the top and bottom housings of the switch. When a key is pressed down, the qualities of the bottom housing become more noticeable, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing has a greater influence on the sound produced when releasing the key. Therefore, despite the differences in housing materials between the Ash Gray and the WS Yellow, the overall typing experience and sound production may be somewhat similar due to the shared use of nylon material in the bottom housings.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. The Ash Gray has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a medium-light switch. On the other hand, the actuation force of the WS Yellow switch is not provided, but it also has a bottom out force of 53 grams, implying a potentially similar weight.
Weight is an important factor to consider, as it can impact the typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter switch may opt for a keyboard with a lighter actuation force, such as the Ash Gray, as it allows for comfortable typing over longer periods, making it suitable for work or extended gaming sessions. In contrast, individuals who prefer a stronger push feel and desire a more substantial typing experience may opt for switches with heavier forces.
Although the specific actuation force of the WS Yellow switch is unknown, the fact that it shares the same bottom out force as the Ash Gray suggests that their overall weight may be similar. However, given the lack of information regarding the actuation force, it is uncertain whether they provide the same level of resistance during the initial keystroke.
In summary, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch has a known actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a medium-light switch. The actuation force of the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch is unspecified, but its bottom out force matches that of the Ash Gray. Therefore, while the weights may be similar, it is unclear whether the actuation forces provide comparable levels of resistance.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, there is a notable difference. The Ash Gray has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the standard 4.0 mm. On the other hand, the WS Yellow has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, still shorter than the standard but slightly longer than the Ash Gray. If you are a gamer seeking fast response times, the Ash Gray may be the better choice due to its shorter travel distance. However, if you prefer a more substantial and satisfying keystroke, the WS Yellow with its slightly longer travel distance might be more suitable. It is important to note that both switches offer shorter travel distances than the traditional standard, so you can expect similar results in terms of overall responsiveness compared to a standard 4.0 mm travel distance switch. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and desired 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 Yellow comes in at $3.50 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, the Ash Gray switch is described as having a neutral profile, which means it has a moderate sound profile that is suitable for most purposes. It offers a pleasant tactile feedback without being overwhelming or giving a "sandy" sensation. On the other hand, there is no information available about the sound profile of the WS Yellow switch. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
In terms of feel, both switches are described as offering a mild typing experience. The Ash Gray switch is easy to press, providing gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This makes typing effortless and comfortable, minimizing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The WS Yellow switch, on the other hand, is creamy, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience. It feels like gliding your fingers across the keys with ease, as each keystroke effortlessly melts into the switch. Additionally, the WS Yellow switch is also described as mild, which means it offers a gentle typing experience that most users will find approachable.
Overall, based on the available information, the Ash Gray switch and the WS Yellow switch have different subjective qualities. The Ash Gray switch provides a tactile response that is light and crisp, with a moderately neutral sound profile and an easy-to-press feel. On the other hand, the WS Yellow switch offers a smooth and buttery typing experience, with a creamy sensation, a mild sound profile (assumed based on other creamy switches), and a polished finish. If you are looking for a switch with a more tactile response and a neutral sound profile, the Ash Gray switch would be a suitable option. If you prefer a switch with a smooth and creamy typing experience, the WS Yellow switch would be a great choice. However, please note that personal preferences can vary, and it is always recommended to test the switches in person or read more comprehensive reviews for a more accurate evaluation.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a light touch and crisp actuation, the KTT Ash Gray would be an excellent choice. It provides a substantial yet unobtrusive tactile response, offering a delightful blend of feedback on your fingertips. With a moderate actuation force requirement and a mild typing experience, this switch is suitable for both beginners and advanced users alike. It is also a versatile option that can be used at home or work due to its neutral sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and buttery typing experience, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch is the way to go. With its creamy sensation, these switches offer effortless keystrokes and a satisfying bounce. They also have a mild typing experience and a polished finish, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel. Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Ash Gray and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow comes down to whether you prefer a tactile switch with a light touch or a linear switch with a creamy feel.
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