KTT Darling vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the KTT Darling linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, one must consider the unique qualities of each. The KTT Darling offers a typing experience that is both chewy and substantial, with a pronounced bounciness that adds a springy responsiveness to every keystroke. The sound it produces is high-pitched and resonant, creating a satisfying blend of tactile and auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch provides a medium level of tactility with a lower actuation and bottom-out force, making it approachable for all users. It also boasts a deep and thocky sound profile. Each switch has its own strengths and appeals to different preferences, but for a more in-depth comparison, let's delve further into the details to help you make the best choice for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Darling and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring differ in terms of the bottom housing composition. The Darling features a nylon bottom housing, which is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This contrast in materials results in a difference in the typing experience and sound produced by the switches.
In terms of the top housing, both the Darling and the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring utilize polycarbonate, resulting in a similar sound profile characterized by sharpness, higher pitch, and crispness. Polycarbonate's stiffness leads to a clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal material for the top housing of switches, especially when RGB lighting is involved. Despite using the same material for the top housing, the overall typing experience and sound produced may still vary due to other factors such as the keycaps and the switch design.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile, typing experience, and aesthetics of the switches. While both the KTT Darling and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring utilize polycarbonate in the top housing, their different bottom housing materials result in distinct sound profiles. Understanding the impact of housing materials on the overall performance of switches can help enthusiasts make informed decisions when selecting mechanical keyboards for their desired typing experience.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Darling linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch are quite similar. The Darling has a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Shadow's 48 grams. Similarly, the Darling has a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Shadow has a bottom out force of 55 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-light category in terms of force required. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Darling, while those who enjoy a slightly stronger push feel may opt for the Shadow. Ultimately, both switches offer a balanced force profile that allows for comfortable typing over extended periods of time.
Travel distance
The KTT Darling linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Darling's shorter travel distance may appeal to those seeking a faster response time, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth for those who prefer a more substantial key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the overall typing experience desired.
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) 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 Darling linear switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched characteristics, delivering a sharp and resonant sound that can be engaging and satisfying for users who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is described as having a deep and thocky sound profile, which may appeal to those who prefer a more subdued and bassy sound while typing. Overall, the sound preference between the two switches would depend on the user's personal preference for noise level and tone.
In terms of feel, both the KTT Darling and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches are described as bouncy, providing a spring-like and lively feedback sensation when typing. This bounciness contributes to the overall typing experience by giving the keys a rebound effect when pressed, adding a dynamic feel to each keystroke. Users who enjoy switches with a bouncy and responsive feel may find both of these options to be satisfying in terms of tactile feedback and typing experience.
In conclusion, the KTT Darling linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Darling excels in delivering a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, along with a chewy and bouncy typing sensation, while the Shadow (Ink) provides a deep and thocky sound with a medium level of tactility and a lower actuation force. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between these switches to enhance their typing experience with either sharp and resonant feedback or deep and thocky tones. Ultimately, both switches offer quality options in the mechanical keyboard market for users seeking different typing sensations.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the KTT Darling linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, consider the following guidelines: Choose the Darling if you prefer a linear switch with a chewy and substantial typing sensation, along with a bouncy and resonant sound profile. On the other hand, opt for the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility, featuring a lower actuation force and a deep, thocky sound profile. Ultimately, your choice should be based on your preference for typing experience, sound profile, and overall keyboard feel. Each switch offers unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so make sure to choose the one that best suits your typing style and preferences.
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