KTT Glimp vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the KTT Glimp and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double 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 Glimp and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring. Both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Glimp switch is a linear switch that strikes a perfect balance between a substantial typing experience and manageable resistance. It provides a satisfying tactile feedback and comfortable actuation force, resulting in a responsive typing feel. Additionally, the Glimp switch has a fairly clacky sound profile, adding an enjoyable auditory element to your typing sessions. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is a tactile switch that offers a medium-high level of tactility. With its long, two-staged spring, this variant delivers a deep, resonating thock sound when typing. It has a unique combination of characteristics, including a clacky, high-pitched, sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences and typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
18mm spring
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
The KTT Glimp and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring both utilize polycarbonate as the material for their top housings. This choice of material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal option for those seeking a distinct auditory experience while typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the use of RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Glimp features a nylon material while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring employs polycarbonate. The nylon bottom housing of the Glimp offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the polycarbonate used in the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring. This discrepancy is primarily due to the difference in plastic hardness. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. On the other hand, polycarbonate's stiffness contributes to a crisper and higher-pitched sound. While the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed down.
Overall, while the top housing of both switches shares similar characteristics due to the use of polycarbonate, their bottom housings differ significantly. This distinction will impact the sound and feel when interacting with the switches. Whether one prefers the deeper and fuller sound produced by nylon-bottomed switches like the Glimp, or the sharper and crisper sound associated with polycarbonate-bottomed switches like the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, the choice ultimately depends on individual preference and desired typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, we can see a few differences. The Glimp has a lighter actuation force at 43 grams, compared to the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's 55 grams. This means that it takes less force to trigger a keystroke on the Glimp switch. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Glimp switch requires 53 grams, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring requires 63 grams. Therefore, when fully pressing the keys down, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring provides a slightly more substantial typing experience. Despite these differences, both switches fall within the medium range in terms of actuation and bottom out force. So, while the Glimp is lighter in both aspects, and the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is heavier, individuals seeking a similar typing experience could adjust their typing style to achieve similar results with both switches.
Travel distance
The KTT Glimp linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance of travel. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches will provide similar results.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Glimp has an MSRP of $3.84 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Glimp for $3.45.
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
The KTT Glimp linear switch is known for its tactile feedback and comfortable actuation force, providing a satisfying and responsive typing feel. It has a fairly clacky sound profile, adding an enjoyable auditory element to typing sessions. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch offers a medium-high level of tactility with its long, two-staged spring. Typing on the Shadow switches produces deep, resonating thocks. Both switches have a clacky sound profile, but the Shadow switch has a higher-pitched sound. In terms of feel, the Glimp switch is described as creamy, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience. It has a mild feel, making it approachable for most users. The Shadow switch, on the other hand, is sharp and accented. It offers a strong and crisp tactile bump, along with a snappy and bouncy feel. The Shadow switch also has a stepped feel, providing some pre-travel and/or post-travel sensation. Overall, both switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are looking for a medium-light switch that offers a satisfying typing experience without overwhelming resistance and a clacky sound profile, the KTT Glimp linear switch is the one for you. It strikes a perfect balance between tactile feedback and comfortable actuation force. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility and deep, resonating thocks when typing, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is the ideal choice. It offers a sharp and snappy clacky sound and a sharp tactile bump that can be felt distinctly with each keypress. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on your personal preference for actuation force, sound profile, and tactile feedback. Consider your typing style and the typing experience you desire before making your choice.
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