KTT Laurel vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the KTT Laurel and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two options that stand out are the KTT Laurel, a linear switch, and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, a tactile switch. The Laurel is renowned for its medium-light linear operation and impressive design features such as a full POM housing, short travel, and a long pole design. This combination results in a switch that offers a perfect balance of responsiveness and comfort. Additionally, the Laurel switch produces a subtly low-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Shadow Double Spring switch variant is ideal for those who prefer a tactile experience. With its medium-high level of tactility and unique two-staged spring design, the Shadow switch provides a satisfying typing experience with deep, resonating thocks. It is characterized by a variety of attributes such as being clacky, high-pitched, sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can ultimately make the best decision based on your personal preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
1.80 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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22m spring
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Laurel and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring differ in terms of the sound profiles they create. The Laurel's POM top and bottom housing materials contribute to a deep and muted sound. This means that when you press down on a key, the switch will produce a lower-pitched and more subdued sound. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's polycarbonate top and bottom housing materials result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Pressing down on a key will produce a more resonant and clear sound.
In terms of aesthetics, the two switches have contrasting features. The Laurel's POM housing is not translucent, meaning it does not allow for RGB lighting effects to shine through. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's polycarbonate housing is translucent, making it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. The clear housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring allows the colorful lighting to shine through, enhancing the visual appeal of the switch.
However, if you prefer a switch that provides a similar sound experience, both the Laurel and the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offer pleasing and unique sound profiles. While the sound may differ slightly, they both possess the qualities of their respective housing materials. Additionally, if you do not require RGB lighting, the Laurel's POM housing provides a solid choice with its deep and muted sound profile. Conversely, if you prioritize both sound and aesthetics, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's polycarbonate housing delivers a sharper and resonant sound while enabling RGB lighting effects to enhance the visual experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Laurel linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, there are notable differences. The Laurel has a relatively light actuation force of 43 grams, which means it requires a relatively gentle touch to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, providing a slightly more substantial push feel when typing.
In terms of bottom out force, the Laurel requires 50 grams of force to fully press down, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch requires 63 grams. This indicates that the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch has a slightly heavier bottom out force, offering a more satisfying and pronounced typing experience as the keys are fully pressed.
Considering the weight factor, those who prefer lighter switches may find the Laurel more suitable, as it allows for longer periods of comfortable typing, making it ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a stronger push feel and desire a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch with its heavier forces.
Although the forces between the two switches are not exactly the same, they do provide a range of options for users with different preferences. Those who favor lighter actuation and bottom out forces may still find similar results with both switches, as they both offer a relatively light typing experience. However, for those seeking a more pronounced tactile feedback while typing, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch would be the heavier and more substantial option.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Laurel linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, it is clear that the Laurel has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Laurel being slightly shallower and the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring being closer to the average. Gamers, who value faster response times, may prefer the Laurel due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who enjoy a deeper and more satisfying keypress may opt for the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and the desired level of responsiveness or depth. In either case, both switches offer reliable performance and can provide a satisfying typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Laurel has an MSRP of $4.42 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Laurel for $3.95.
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 Laurel linear switch is known for its subtly low-pitched sound profile. Low-pitched switches typically have a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch is described as clacky and high-pitched. Clacky switches produce a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, while high-pitched switches produce a sharp and crisp sound. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the KTT Laurel switch is described as snappy. Snappy switches are super responsive, thanks to longer or dual-staged springs, which make the typing experience feel more lively. On the contrary, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch offers a sharp and accented tactile bump. Accented switches provide a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Additionally, the Shadow switch is also described as snappy, bouncy, and stepped. Bouncy switches give a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, while stepped switches have a mild tactile feel with some pre-travel and/or post-travel.
Based on the available information, the KTT Laurel linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Laurel switch has a subtly low-pitched sound profile and a snappy feel, providing a balance of responsiveness and comfort. On the other hand, the Shadow switch has a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, with a sharp and accented tactile bump, along with snappy, bouncy, and stepped qualities. It's important to consider personal preference when choosing between the two switches, as sound and feel are subjective experiences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-light linear switch that offers a perfect balance of responsiveness and comfort, the KTT Laurel is a great choice. With its full POM housing, short travel, and long pole design, the Laurel provides a satisfying typing experience. It is known for its subtly low-pitched sound profile, which adds to its overall pleasantness.
On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is the switch for you. With its long, two-staged spring, this switch offers a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be felt distinctly with each keypress. Typing on the Shadow switch delivers deep, resonating thocks, which adds to the overall typing experience.
In terms of sound, the Laurel produces a low-pitched tone, which is more bass-heavy and mellow. This can be appealing if you enjoy a quieter typing experience. Conversely, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring produces a clacky and high-pitched sound, offering a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. This can be desirable if you prefer a more vibrant and percussive sound profile.
In terms of feel, the Laurel is described as snappy, providing a super responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offers a variety of feel descriptors, including sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped. These descriptors highlight the tactile intensity and liveliness of the Shadow switch, offering different options depending on your personal preference.
Ultimately, the choice between the Laurel and the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring depends on your specific preferences. If you prioritize responsiveness, comfort, and a subtly low-pitched sound profile, the Laurel is a solid option. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a strong tactile bump, deep thocks, and a clacky high-pitched sound, the Shadow switch is the way to go. Consider your typing preferences, sound preferences, and desired level of tactility to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard.
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