KTT Mallo vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the KTT Mallo and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Mallo and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring mechanical keyboard switches, it becomes clear that they offer distinct characteristics for different preferences. The Mallo stands out for its subtle tactility and medium-light typing feel, providing a balanced and versatile option for typists in various environments. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offers a medium-high level of tactility with deep, resonating thocks, making it ideal for those who prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback. While the Mallo is characterized by its feathery and subdued qualities, the Shadow switch is described as clacky and sharp. 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
N/A
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
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
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Mallo and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially beneficial for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. However, the Mallo differs from the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring in terms of their bottom housing materials. The Mallo features a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature and its ability to absorb more sound.
In terms of sound profile, the use of different housing materials for the top and bottom of a switch can split the qualities each material brings. For the Mallo, the nylon bottom housing will have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's polycarbonate bottom housing will contribute to a sharper and crisper sound profile. The top housings of both switches will have a similar effect on the sound when a key is released, emphasizing the importance of material choice in both the top and bottom housings to achieve desired sound characteristics.
While both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housings for similar sound qualities, the choice of bottom housing material sets them apart. The Mallo's nylon bottom housing provides a different typing experience compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring. The Mallo offers a deeper and fuller sound, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's bottom housing contributes to a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile. Ultimately, the differences in housing materials between the two switches cater to different preferences in sound and typing experience.
Weight
The KTT Mallo tactile switch has a lower actuation force of None grams, making it lighter in terms of triggering a keystroke compared to the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch, which requires 55 grams of force to actuate. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Mallo has a weight of 55 grams, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch has a heavier bottom out force of 63 grams. This means that the Mallo switch offers a lighter typing experience overall, perfect for those who prefer longer typing sessions or extended gaming periods. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch provides a more substantial push feel, ideal for users looking for a heavier typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. The identical travel distances ensure that whether using the Mallo or the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, the keystrokes will feel familiar and provide a similar level of tactile feedback. Overall, the travel distance of both switches offers a comfortable typing experience for users looking for a consistent feel in their mechanical keyboards.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Mallo has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mallo for $4.40.
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
In terms of sound, the KTT Mallo switch offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for most typing environments, providing a gentle and subtle sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch has a more clacky and high-pitched sound, creating a sharp and resonating thock with each keypress. Depending on personal preference and the setup of your keyboard and keycaps, the Mallo switch may provide a more versatile and subdued sound experience, while the Shadow switch will deliver a more crisp and percussive typing sound.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Mallo switch is known for its feathery and mild typing experience, offering a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue and provides a comfortable typing session. The subtle tactile bump of the Mallo switch creates a gentle resistance without being overpowering. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch delivers a sharp and snappy tactile feedback, with a bouncy and accented feel that is more intense and responsive. The dual-spring design of the Shadow switch contributes to a lively and rebounding typing sensation.
In conclusion, the KTT Mallo tactile switch emphasizes subtlety and finesse in both sound and feel, providing a balanced and versatile typing experience suitable for various preferences. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch offers a more intense and sharp tactile feedback with a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, ideal for those seeking a more pronounced typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing styles and preferences. Ultimately, your choice between the Mallo and Shadow switches will depend on whether you prefer a gentler and more versatile typing experience or a more intense and responsive tactile feedback.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, consider your preference for tactility, sound, and typing feel. If you prioritize a subtle tactile feedback with a neutral sound profile and a feathery typing experience, the KTT Mallo switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-high level of tactility with a clacky, high-pitched sound and a sharp, snappy typing feel, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is a better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and how you want your keyboard experience to feel and sound.
Mentioned in this article
