KTT Cream Yellow vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the KTT Cream Yellow and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. Two popular options worth considering are the KTT Cream Yellow and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring. The Cream Yellow switch is known for its distinctively clacky sound, thanks to its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem that provides resonant audio feedback. This switch also offers a uniquely bouncy typing feel, thanks to its lengthened spring. On the other hand, if you're in search of a tactile switch, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring might be the ideal choice. With a medium level of tactility, it offers a lower actuation and bottom-out force, making it approachable and comfortable to use. Additionally, it boasts a deep and thocky sound profile, adding to the overall typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.90 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 housing materials used in the KTT Cream Yellow and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches are quite similar. Both switches use polycarbonate for their top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous for those planning to use RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through. Therefore, in terms of sound and aesthetic qualities, both switches will provide similar results with their polycarbonate top housing.
However, where they do differ is in the material used for their bottom housing. The Cream Yellow switch utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch opts for a polycarbonate bottom housing. The nylon bottom housing of the Cream Yellow switch elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material being relatively softer, resulting in more sound absorption. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. As a result, the characteristics of the bottom housing will have a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
In terms of the overall typing experience, both switches will provide distinct and unique sound profiles attributed to their different bottom housing materials. The Cream Yellow switch with its nylon bottom housing will create a deeper and fuller sound, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch with its polycarbonate bottom housing will offer a sharper and crisper sound. Additionally, the top housing material of polycarbonate in both switches ensures a clear and resonant sound when keys are released. Therefore, depending on personal preferences, individuals can choose between a switch with a more rounded sound (Cream Yellow) or a switch with a more pronounced and crisp sound (Shadow (Ink) Single Spring).
Weight
When comparing the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Cream Yellow has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams, whereas the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has a slightly lighter actuation force of 48 grams. Both switches fall within the medium force range. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Cream Yellow requires a slightly heavier force of 58 grams compared to the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring which requires 55 grams. Therefore, the Cream Yellow can be considered the heavier option in terms of bottom out force, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is relatively lighter.
Considering weight preferences, those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods may lean towards the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch, as it has a slightly lighter actuation force. This is particularly suitable for individuals who use their keyboards for work or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who prioritize a more substantial typing experience and enjoy a stronger push feel may find the Cream Yellow switch more appealing with its slightly higher actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the individual's personal preference for typing feel and keystroke sensitivity.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, we find that the Cream Yellow has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Cream Yellow.
A travel distance of 4.0 mm is considered more traditional, providing a satisfying depth when pressing down a key. On the other hand, a travel distance of 3.5 mm is slightly shorter and may appeal more to gamers who prioritize faster response times. Choosing a switch with a shorter travel distance can enhance responsiveness in gaming scenarios. However, it's important to note that some individuals might find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt or lacking in depth.
Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference. If you prefer a keyboard with a hearty depth and a substantial travel distance, then the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring would be a suitable option with its longer travel distance of 4 mm. Conversely, if you prioritize a more responsive typing or gaming experience, the KTT Cream Yellow with its slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm would be a viable choice. Both switches offer unique characteristics, allowing for different tactile experiences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
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
In terms of sound, the Cream Yellow switch is known for its distinctively clacky sound. When pressed, this switch is designed to produce a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, there is no specific information available regarding the sound profile of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch. It is important to note that the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. However, based on the available information, it can be suggested that the Cream Yellow switch is likely to deliver a unique clacky sound while the sound profile of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch remains unknown.
In terms of feel, both the Cream Yellow and the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches are described as bouncy. Bouncy switches provide a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, offering a lively feel and rebound when pressed. This implies that typing on both switches will likely provide a tactile experience with a responsive and lively feel. The Cream Yellow switch achieves this bounciness through features such as a lengthened spring and a long-pole stem, whereas no specific details are provided regarding the mechanism behind the bounciness of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch.
Taking all the available information into consideration, the Cream Yellow switch stands out for its distinctively clacky sound and bouncy typing feel. It is specifically designed to deliver a resonant audio feedback with a shortened bottom-out distance, long-pole stem, and lengthened spring, creating a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is recommended for those who prefer a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility. It offers a lower actuation and bottom-out force, providing an approachable tactility and a deep, thocky sound profile. While it is mentioned that both switches exhibit a bouncy feel, no further details are provided to differentiate their mechanisms or characteristics. Overall, for an individual seeking clacky audio feedback and a distinctive bouncy typing feel, the Cream Yellow switch would be a recommended choice. However, if a medium tactility and deep sound profile are preferred, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch could be a suitable alternative.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, it boils down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a distinctively clacky sound and a uniquely bouncy typing feel, the Cream Yellow switch might be the better choice for you. Its shortened bottom-out distance, long-pole stem, and lengthened spring combine to provide resonant audio feedback and a lively typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility and a deep, thocky sound profile, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is highly recommended. With its lower actuation and bottom-out force, it offers approachable tactility and a satisfying typing sensation. Both switches provide a bouncy feel, giving you rebound when pressed. Ultimately, the decision comes down to the specific sound and feel you desire in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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