KTT Ash Gray vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Ash Gray and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring are two popular options, each offering their own unique characteristics. The Ash Gray switch is best known for its subtle yet noticeable tactile response, providing a light touch and crisp actuation. With its blend of tactile feedback that is neither overwhelming nor sandy, this switch falls into the categories of being easy-to-press, mild, and neutral. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offers a medium-high level of tactility thanks to its two-staged spring. Typing on these switches delivers deep, resonating thocks that can elevate the typing experience. The Shadow switch is categorized as clacky, high-pitched, sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
The KTT Ash Gray and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a similar sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, making it ideal for those who prefer a more distinct typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetics of the switch. Whether you choose the Ash Gray or the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, you can expect comparable results in terms of sound and visual appeal due to their shared use of polycarbonate in the top housing.
However, the major point of differentiation between the two switches lies in their bottom housing materials. The Ash Gray utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring employs polycarbonate. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate produces a more clear and resonant sound. Therefore, if sound is a significant factor in your switch preference, the choice between the Ash Gray and the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring may depend on whether you prefer a deeper or a sharper sound.
When pressing down on either switch, the qualities of the bottom housing come into play. The bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, determining the overall tactile experience when typing. On the other hand, when you release a key, the top housing's characteristics become more apparent and influence the sound produced. This distinction in the impact of the top and bottom housing materials allows for a diverse range of typing experiences and can be a deciding factor for individuals seeking a specific feel when using a mechanical keyboard.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, there are notable differences. The Ash Gray has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams compared to the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's 55 grams. This means that the Ash Gray requires less force to trigger a keystroke, providing a lighter touch for typing. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Ash Gray has a force of 53 grams, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is slightly heavier at 63 grams. This indicates that the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel upon fully pressing down the keys.
For those who prefer a lighter switch, the Ash Gray would be a suitable option as it allows for longer typing sessions without causing excessive strain. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches offer unique advantages based on personal preference and intended use. It is worth noting that the Ash Gray and Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switches do not provide similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, but they do cater to different preferences and typing styles.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, there is a noticeable difference in the distances traveled. The Ash Gray has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter compared to the 4 mm travel distance of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring. The 4.0mm travel distance of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring falls within the traditional range for switch travel distances, while the Ash Gray's 3.5 mm distance is slightly shallower. This means that if you prefer a keyboard with a faster response time, the Ash Gray would be the better choice due to its shorter travel distance. Gamers, in particular, often favor shorter travel distances for quicker reactions. However, for those who prefer a more substantial feel and deeper keystrokes, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's longer travel distance may be more appealing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences and the 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 Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring for $3.57.
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 KTT Ash Gray switch has a neutral sound profile. This means that it produces a moderate sound when pressed, making it suitable for various environments and users, whether they are beginners or advanced typists, and whether they are using the switch at home or at work. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch has a clacky and high-pitched sound. When pressed, it produces a sharp, snappy, and crisp sound, which can be described as bright and percussive. If you prefer a switch with a more distinct and vibrant sound, the Shadow switch is the better choice.
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 the switch. This effortless typing experience reduces finger fatigue and offers a responsive and low-impact feel. The switch is also described as mild, providing a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch has several descriptors for its feel. It is described as sharp, accentuated, snappy, bouncy, and stepped. These descriptions indicate a high level of feedback intensity, with a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be distinctly felt with each keypress. Additionally, the switch has a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, giving the keys a lively feel and rebound when pressed.
Taking all available information into account, it's clear that the KTT Ash Gray and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches offer different subjective qualities. The Ash Gray switch provides a lighter touch with a subtle yet present tactile feedback, a neutral sound profile, and an easy-to-press feel, making it suitable for those looking for a comfortable and versatile typing experience. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offers a medium-high level of tactility, deep resonating thocks when typing, a clacky and high-pitched sound, and a sharp, accentuated, snappy, bouncy, and stepped feel. This switch is ideal for those who prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback and a vibrant and distinct typing experience. While the two switches may share certain qualities such as being suitable for most intents and purposes, it's important to note that the overall subjective experience will differ.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a light touch and a crisp actuation, the KTT Ash Gray switch would be a great option for you. It provides a substantial yet unobtrusive tactile response, offering a delightful blend of tactile feedback without being overwhelming. The Ash Gray switch has a medium-light bottom out force of 53 grams, making it easy to press and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. In terms of sound, the Ash Gray switch has a neutral profile, suitable for most intents and purposes. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-high level of tactility and enjoy a sharp and snappy sound when typing, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch would be more suitable. With its long, two-staged spring, the Shadow switch variant offers a strong and crisp tactile bump, providing a distinctive typing feel. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch has a medium bottom out force of 63 grams. Ultimately, the choice between the Ash Gray and the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch depends on your preference for actuation force, sound profile, and level of tactility.
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