KTT Ash Gray vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the KTT Ash Gray and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring. The Ash Gray switch is designed to provide a tactile response that is both substantial and unobtrusive. With a light touch and crisp actuation, this switch offers a delightful blend of tactile feedback that is not overwhelming but still noticeable. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring variant of Aflion's switch offers a medium level of tactility. It has a lower actuation and bottom-out force, making it approachable for users who prefer a softer tactile experience. Additionally, this switch provides a deep and thocky sound profile, adding a satisfying auditory element to typing. While these general descriptions give some indication of the characteristics of each switch, let's dive deeper into the specific features and nuances to help you make the best choice for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
55g
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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
The KTT Ash Gray and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. The use of polycarbonate in housings creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in both switches. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, which allows for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency makes it especially useful for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, whether it is the Ash Gray or the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, you can expect similar results in terms of sound quality and aesthetics when it comes to the top housing.
However, the bottom housings of these switches differ. The KTT Ash Gray features a nylon bottom housing, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is known as a classic switch housing material, and typing on switches that use nylon produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, similar to its top housing. Therefore, the bottom-out sound and feel of the KTT Ash Gray will be different from that of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, offering distinct typing experiences.
Overall, the difference in housing materials between the KTT Ash Gray and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring extends beyond aesthetics. While both switches share the benefits of polycarbonate for their top housing in terms of sound and appearance, the choice of nylon for the Ash Gray's bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring maintains the sharper and crisper sound profile found throughout the switch. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, you can choose between these switches based on the distinct qualities offered by their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, it is evident that the Ash Gray requires a lighter force for activation compared to the Shadow. The Ash Gray has an actuation force of 38 grams, while the Shadow requires 48 grams for actuation. This means that users who prefer a lighter touch and a quicker keystroke response may find the Ash Gray switch more suitable for their needs. In terms of bottom out force, the Ash Gray requires 53 grams, while the Shadow requires 55 grams. Though the difference is minimal, it suggests that the Ash Gray switch may result in a slightly softer key landing compared to the Shadow. Overall, the Ash Gray offers a lighter feel for those who prioritize extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions, while the Shadow provides a slightly heavier push feel for a more substantial typing experience. However, it is important to note that both switches fall within the medium-light category, ensuring that users will achieve similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, we can see that the Ash Gray has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has a travel distance of 4 mm. Based on this information, it is clear that the Ash Gray has a shorter travel distance compared to the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring.
In terms of traditional standards, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring with its 4 mm travel distance falls within the typical range for switch travel distances. On the other hand, the Ash Gray with its slightly shorter 3.5 mm travel distance offers a more compact and responsive typing experience. This shorter travel distance is often preferred by gamers who value faster response times and a snappier feel when pressing down on keys.
However, it is important to note that personal preferences play a significant role in determining the ideal travel distance for each individual. While some may find the shorter travel distance of the Ash Gray to be perfect for their needs, others may feel that it lacks the desired depth or feels too abrupt. In such cases, the longer travel distance of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring may be a better fit for those seeking a more substantial keypress experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's specific typing preferences and requirements.
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) Single 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) Single 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 is known for its neutral profile. This means that it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of uses whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use them at home or work. On the other hand, there is no specific information available about the sound profile of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Based on the available information, it is difficult to make a direct comparison between the two switches in terms of sound, but both can be expected to deliver desirable results depending on the accompanying factors.
In terms of feel, the KTT Ash Gray switch offers an easy-to-press experience with gentle resistance during key presses. This means that it requires minimal force to activate, making typing effortless and comfortable. It also reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions, enhancing the overall typing experience with its responsive and low-impact feel. Additionally, the Ash Gray switch is described as having a mild tactile feedback, offering a gentle typing experience that most users will find approachable. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is described as providing a bouncy feel. This means that the keys have a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, giving a lively feel and rebound when pressed.
Overall, both switches have their own unique characteristics. The KTT Ash Gray switch offers a balanced blend of tactile feedback, with a light touch and crisp actuation that is not overwhelming. It delivers a tactile response that is substantial yet unobtrusive, providing an enjoyable typing experience. The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch, on the other hand, offers a medium level of tactility with a lower actuation and bottom-out force. It provides an approachable level of tactile feedback and features a deep and thocky sound profile. While there are subjective differences in sound and feel between the two switches based on the available information, both switches can deliver similar results in terms of providing a satisfying typing experience depending on individual preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch with a light touch and a crisp actuation, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch would be a great choice. It offers a delightful blend of tactile feedback that is not overwhelming but far from being unnoticed. This switch is described as easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requires minimal force to activate. It enhances the typing experience by being responsive and low-impact, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the Ash Gray switch has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various environments.
On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is highly recommended. It features a lower actuation and bottom-out force, providing a very approachable tactility. This switch has a deep and thocky sound profile, giving it a unique auditory experience. The Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, which adds to the liveliness when typing.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Ash Gray and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring depends on your preference for tactility, sound, and typing experience. If you prefer a light touch and a more neutral sound, the Ash Gray switch would be a good fit. However, if you desire a medium tactile experience with a distinctive sound and bouncy feedback, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch would be the better choice. Both switches offer their own unique features and advantages, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style.
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