KTT Lightning vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the KTT Lightning and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the KTT Lightning and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring. The KTT Lightnings are known for their speed and responsiveness, making them ideal for those moments when split seconds can determine victory or defeat. Typing on these switches provides a slick and satisfying experience accompanied by a clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offers a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility. Its two-staged spring design ensures a pronounced and satisfying tactile feedback. The typing experience with the Shadow switches is characterized by deep and resonating thocks. Both switches share qualities such as clacky and high-pitched sounds, but the Ink Double Spring brings sharpness, accent, snap, bounce, and a stepped feeling to the table. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities to help you decide on the best switch based on your preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
The KTT Lightning and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring keyboards both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in similar sound profiles. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, which is especially noticeable when releasing a key. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for stunning RGB lighting effects, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize aesthetics and want to enhance their keyboard's visual appeal.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the materials used in these keyboards differ. The Lightning employs a nylon bottom housing, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring utilizes polycarbonate. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of the material. Nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing in the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring contributes to a sharper and crisper sound, amplifying the impact and bottom-out sound when pressing down on keys.
In summary, while the top housings of the KTT Lightning and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring share the same polycarbonate material and provide similar sound profiles, their bottom housing materials differ. The nylon bottom housing of the Lightning enhances the sound with a deeper and fuller tone, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring delivers a sharper and crisper sound. The choice between the two will depend on the desired sound profile and the importance of RGB lighting aesthetics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, there are notable differences. The Lightning switch has an actuation force of 43 grams, making it lighter compared to the Shadow switch, which requires 55 grams to trigger a keystroke. Similarly, the Lightning has a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Shadow switch has a higher bottom out force of 63 grams. This indicates that the Shadow switch requires a slightly stronger push for both actuation and bottoming out.
Considering weight, the Lightning switch's lighter actuation force and bottom out force make it suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. With its lower force requirements, it allows for longer periods of typing without causing fatigue. This makes it ideal for individuals who use their keyboards extensively, such as in work settings or during lengthy gaming sessions.
On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offers a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier forces. With a higher actuation force and bottom out force, it provides a stronger push feel, which some typists prefer for a more tactile feedback and satisfying keystroke. This option is better suited for those seeking a heavier and more pronounced typing experience.
In conclusion, the actuation force and bottom out force differ significantly between the KTT Lightning and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches. While the Lightning switch offers a lighter typing experience with its lower force requirements, the Shadow switch provides a heavier and more substantial feel. The choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The KTT Lightning linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch have different travel distances. The Lightning has a travel distance of 3 mm, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Lightning switch offers a shorter travel distance, which is often preferred by gamers who prioritize faster response times. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch provides a longer travel distance, which may be more suitable for individuals who prefer a deeper and more satisfying keystroke. Both options offer distinct benefits based on individual preferences and requirements.
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 KTT Lightning comes in at $3.41 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 KTT Lightning linear switch is known for its approachable "speed" nature, making it perfect for scenarios where split-second decisions can determine success or failure. When typing on these switches, users can expect a slick and smooth feel with a clacky sound profile. The sound produced by the Lightning switch can be described as sharp, snappy, and high-pitched, providing a crisp and bright auditory experience. It is important to note that the sound may also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch offers a medium-high level of tactility, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a tactile feel. With its long, two-staged spring, the Shadow switch provides a deep and resonating thock sound when typing. In terms of feel, users can expect a sharp and crisp tactile bump that is prominent and distinct with each keypress. Additionally, these switches are described as accented, offering a notable amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. The Shadow switches are also known for their snappy and bouncy response, providing a lively feel and rebound when pressed.
In conclusion, both the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch offer unique subjective qualities for users to consider. While the Lightning switch provides an approachable and speedy typing experience with a clacky sound profile, the Shadow switch offers a more tactile feel with deep thocks and sharp tactile bumps. Depending on individual preferences and requirements, users can choose between the Lightning switch for quick-paced scenarios or the Shadow switch for a more tactile and resonating typing experience. It is important to note that the sound and feel of the switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch that offers a light typing feel and is perfect for situations where milliseconds matter, the KTT Lightning linear switch is the way to go. These switches provide a slick type feel and have a clacky sound profile, which can be described as crisp and bright. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is the better choice. These switches feature a long, two-staged spring that offers a strong and crisp tactile bump, providing a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming. When typing on the Aflion Shadow switches, you can expect deep and resonating thocks. Both switches produce a clacky and high-pitched sound when pressed, making them suitable for those who prefer sharp and crisp sound profiles. Overall, the Lightning switch is ideal for quick and precise actions, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is perfect for those who prioritize tactility and enjoy a more pronounced typing experience.
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