TKC Kiwi vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the TKC Kiwi 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 TKC Kiwi and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring both offer unique features that enhance the typing experience. The Kiwi switch is best known for its medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, providing a tactile feel that many typists appreciate. Additionally, these switches have a satisfyingly snappy sound profile, creating an immersive typing experience. They are also lightly factory lubed, ensuring a smooth and effortless typing experience right out of the box. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch stands out for its medium-high level of tactility, thanks to its long, two-staged spring. Typing on these switches produces deep, resonating thocks that add to the overall satisfaction. Both switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
N/A
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
UHWMPE
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold coated spring
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
The TKC Kiwi and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring differ in their housing materials, with the former utilizing UHWMPE for both the top and bottom housings, while the latter incorporates polycarbonate for both. These materials bring distinct sound profiles to the switches. UHWMPE in the Kiwi's top housing produces bright and resonant clacks, providing a vibrant and energetic typing experience. In comparison, the polycarbonate top housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, offering higher-pitched tones. Both materials contribute to a clear and resonant sound, but with their own unique characteristics.
Similarly, the bottom housings of the Kiwi and the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring display contrasting characteristics due to their respective materials. The UHWMPE bottom housing in the Kiwi contributes to the bright sound signature of the switch, creating a distinctive clack when typing. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing in the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring adds to the sharper and higher-pitched sound profile, enhancing the overall clarity and resonance. The bottom housing of a switch has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, allowing for varied auditory and tactile feedback between the two switches.
Although the housing materials of the TKC Kiwi and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring differ, resulting in varying sound profiles, they both offer resonant and clear typing experiences. The UHWMPE and polycarbonate materials used in the Kiwi and Shadow (Ink) Double Spring respectively contribute to the switches' overall sound quality. The Kiwi with its UHWMPE top and bottom housing delivers a bright and lively typing experience, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring with its polycarbonate top and bottom housing offers a sharper and crisper sound profile. Regardless of these differences, both switches are designed to provide satisfying and resonant auditory feedback, ensuring an enjoyable typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, we can observe some similarities and differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Kiwi has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring requires a slightly heavier force of 55 grams to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Kiwi is again heavier, requiring 67 grams to fully press the switch, whereas the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring requires 63 grams.
For those seeking a lighter typing experience, the Kiwi would be a suitable choice, as its actuation and bottom out forces are lower. This would be beneficial for extended typing sessions or prolonged gaming, allowing for less fatigue on the fingers. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offers a slightly stronger push feel, making it a better option for individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience. The slight difference in their bottom out forces may not have a significant impact on the overall typing experience.
In conclusion, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch is lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch requires slightly more force. The choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance of travel. The similarities in their travel distance make them both suitable options for individuals who prefer a consistent tactile experience. However, it is important to note that while the travel distance is equal, there may still be differences in the overall tactile feel and performance of the switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The TKC Kiwi comes in at $8.00 per 10 switches.
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 TKC Kiwi tactile switch is best known for its medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, providing a satisfying and tactile typing experience. As for sound, the Kiwi switch has a low-pitched and neutral sound profile. This means that it produces a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, making it suitable for different typing experiences, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or work. The Kiwi switches also come lightly factory lubed, ensuring a smooth and effortless typing experience right out of the box.
On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch offers a medium-high level of tactility. It features a long, two-staged spring that provides a sharp and crisp tactile bump. This creates a distinct and snappy feedback intensity with each key press. In terms of sound, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is described as clacky and high-pitched. This means that it produces a sharp, bright, and percussive sound, perfect for those who enjoy a more lively and crisp typing experience.
In conclusion, both the TKC Kiwi and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switches offer unique qualities and typing experiences. The Kiwi switches provide a medium to medium-strong bump with a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, while the Shadow switches offer a medium-high level of tactility with a sharp and clacky sound. Both switches have an accented tactile feel, providing a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. Additionally, the Kiwi switches come lightly factory lubed, ensuring smooth and polished key travel, while the Shadow switches have longer or dual-staged springs, making the typing experience feel more responsive and bouncy. Overall, whether you prefer a smoother and mellow typing experience or a sharp and lively one, both switches offer excellent options based on your personal preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium to medium-strong bump and a satisfyingly snappy sound profile, the TKC Kiwi would be a great choice for you. These switches are lightly factory lubed, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience right out of the box. The Kiwi also has a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various environments and preferences. Additionally, the Kiwi is described as having a stepped, accented, and polished feel, offering a sleek and refined typing experience with reduced friction.
On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility and enjoy deep, resonating thocks when typing, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch would be the ideal option. These switches feature a long, two-staged spring that enhances tactility and provides a sharp and snappy clacky sound. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has a high-pitched sound profile, perfect for those who prefer a crisp and bright sound while typing. In terms of feel, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is described as sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped, offering a distinct tactile feedback and a lively typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the TKC Kiwi and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches depends on your preference for the level of bump, sound profile, and typing experience. Consider your desired tactility, sound, and feel when making your decision. Whether you prioritize a medium to medium-strong bump with a low-pitched and neutral sound (Kiwi) or a medium-high tactility with a sharp, clacky, and high-pitched sound (Shadow), both switches offer unique advantages that can enhance your typing experience.
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