KTT Laurel vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the KTT Laurel and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Laurel and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Laurel, a linear switch, is praised for its medium-light weight and its perfect balance of responsiveness and comfort. Its full POM housing and short travel provide a smooth typing experience, while its long pole design enhances its overall performance. Additionally, the Laurel emits a subtly low-pitched sound profile, adding to its overall appeal. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, a tactile switch, is an excellent choice for those seeking a medium level of tactility. With lower actuation and bottom-out forces, these switches offer a more approachable tactility that doesn't sacrifice comfort. Moreover, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring boasts a deep and thocky sound profile, further enhancing the typing experience. 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
43g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Laurel and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring differ significantly. The Laurel features POM (Polyoxymethylene) housings for both its top and bottom sections, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound profile. POM is known for creating a unique and pleasing sound, which adds a distinct character to the switch. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring utilizes polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing. Polycarbonate offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound compared to POM. Its relatively stiffer nature contributes to a more clear and resonant sound profile. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for RGB lighting enthusiasts.
While both switches harness different housing materials for the top and bottom sections, they share similarities in their sound profiles. Both the Laurel's POM top housing and the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's polycarbonate top housing create a unique and pleasing sound. Although the POM housing provides a deeper and more muted sound, while the polycarbonate housing offers a sharper and crisper tone, both materials exhibit specific characteristics that enhance the auditory experience. Furthermore, if RGB lighting is a priority, the transparency of both POM and polycarbonate allows for vibrant illumination.
When it comes to the impact on key pressing, the bottom housing plays a significant role. The qualities of the bottom housing, whether it is POM or polycarbonate, heavily influence the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing's properties contribute to the tactile response and the overall satisfaction of pressing down on a key. In contrast, the top housing primarily affects the sound when releasing a key. Whether it is the POM top housing of the Laurel or the polycarbonate top housing of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, the material determines the sound profile upon key release, adding an additional layer of customization and individuality to the typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Laurel linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The Laurel has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Shadow's 48 grams, making the Laurel easier to trigger. Similarly, the Laurel has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams compared to the Shadow's 55 grams. This means that typing on the Laurel switch may feel more effortless and require less force overall. However, it is worth noting that both switches fall within the light to medium-light category, providing a comfortable typing experience for extended periods of time. Ultimately, for individuals who prefer a lighter touch, the Laurel switch would be an ideal choice, while those who enjoy a slightly more substantial typing feel might prefer the Shadow switch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Laurel linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, it is clear that the Laurel has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Laurel falls on the shallow end of the spectrum, allowing for a faster response time, which is preferred by gamers. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring provides a deeper and more substantial feeling when pressed, which some individuals may find more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference, with the Laurel offering a shorter and quicker travel distance, and the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring providing a longer and more pronounced press.
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) 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 Laurel linear switch is known for its subtly low-pitched profile. This means that when typing on these switches, you can expect a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched ones. On the other hand, there is no specific information provided regarding the sound profile of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to feel, the Laurel switch is described as snappy. This indicates that the switch is super responsive and provides a typing experience that feels more alive. This snappiness is achieved through the use of longer or dual-staged springs in the switch design. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is described as bouncy. This means that when pressing the keys, you will experience a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, giving the keys a lively feel and providing rebound when pressed.
Considering the available information, it can be concluded that the KTT Laurel linear switch stands out for its medium-light linear characteristics, full POM housing, short travel, and long pole design. It provides a subtly low-pitched sound profile and a snappy feel. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is recommended for those seeking a medium level of tactility, lower actuation and bottom-out force, and a bouncy feel. While there is no specific information about its sound profile, it does offer a deep and thocky sound. It's important to consider personal preferences when choosing between these switches, as both offer distinct qualities that can enhance the typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are seeking a smooth and comfortable typing experience with a slight touch of tactility, the KTT Laurel linear switch may be your best choice. Its light bottom out force, full POM housing, and short travel provide a responsive yet comfortable feel, and the low-pitched sound profile adds to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility and a more bouncy feel, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is highly recommended. With a slightly heavier bottom out force and a deep thocky sound profile, these switches offer an approachable tactility and a lively rebound when pressed. Ultimately, the decision between the two will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.
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