KTT Darling vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling 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 Darling and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offer unique typing experiences. The Darling, a linear switch, provides a chewy and substantial typing sensation with a pronounced bounciness that adds a springy responsiveness to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, a tactile switch, features a medium-high level of tactility with deep, resonating thocks when typing. Both switches deliver high-pitched sound profiles and are categorized as clacky and bouncy. Choosing between these switches ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Darling and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring both utilize polycarbonate in their top housings, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which creates a more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for RGB lighting effects. However, the Darling's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to polycarbonate. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the sharp and crisp sound profile of the top housing.
Despite the differences in their bottom housings, the KTT Darling and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring both provide unique sound profiles due to their top housing materials. The Darling's combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing results in a mix of sharper, higher-pitched sounds from the top with deeper, fuller tones from the bottom. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring maintains a consistent sharp and crisp sound profile throughout, thanks to its polycarbonate top and bottom housings. This shows that while the choice of housing material can impact the overall sound of a switch, the specific combination of materials used can lead to different outcomes.
Overall, the KTT Darling and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring showcase the importance of housing materials in determining the sound profile of mechanical switches. The polycarbonate top housing in both switches contributes to a clear and resonant sound, while the choice of nylon or polycarbonate for the bottom housing influences the depth and richness of the sound. Whether a switch features a combination of different materials or the same material for both housings, each component plays a crucial role in creating a unique typing experience. Ultimately, the specific housing materials chosen by manufacturers can greatly impact the overall feel and sound of mechanical switches.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Darling linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch differ slightly in terms of weight. The Darling has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's 55 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Darling requires 53 grams, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring needs 63 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Darling, ideal for long typing or gaming sessions, while those seeking a heavier push may choose the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring for a more robust typing feel. Ultimately, the actuation and bottom out forces play a crucial role in determining the typing experience and preference for users.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the KTT Darling linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, it is clear that the Darling has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Darling offers a more responsive typing experience, ideal for those seeking quicker response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring provides a deeper key press, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Darling has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Darling for $3.90.
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 Darling linear switch is known for its high-pitched and resonant characteristics, providing a sharp and crisp sound profile that can be immersive and engaging. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch also offers a clacky and high-pitched sound, giving off a sharp and percussive tone when pressed. Both switches excel in delivering a satisfying auditory experience, with the Darling leaning towards a more tactile and bright sound, while the Shadow switch provides a deeper and more resonating thock.
In terms of feel, the KTT Darling linear switch is described as bouncy, offering a spring-like and lively feedback sensation that adds a sense of rebound to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch is characterized by its sharp and accented tactility, along with a snappy and bouncy feel that enhances the typing experience. The unique two-staged spring design in the Shadow switch contributes to a distinct tactile bump that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, providing a medium-high level of tactility for users seeking a more pronounced feedback.
In conclusion, both the KTT Darling linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Darling switch stands out for its chewy and substantial typing sensation paired with a bouncy and high-pitched sound profile, the Shadow switch excels in providing a medium-high level of tactility with a deep and resonating thock sound. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can achieve a satisfying and engaging typing experience with either switch option. It is essential to consider personal preferences and typing style when selecting between the KTT Darling and the Aflion Shadow switches to enhance the overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the KTT Darling linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you are looking for a light and bouncy typing experience with a pronounced bounciness and high-pitched sound profile, the KTT Darling switch would be an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-high level of tactility with deep, resonating thocks and a sharp, crisp sound when typing, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is the way to go. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your preference for typing feel and sound profile.
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