KTT Matcha vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the KTT Matcha and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Matcha and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring are two popular mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique features and advantages. The Matcha is known for its comfortable and snappy tactility, providing a satisfying typing experience. Additionally, it offers a clean bottom-out sound due to its long pole stem. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is recommended for those seeking a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility. It has a lower actuation and bottom-out force, making it approachable and comfortable to use. Furthermore, it boasts a deep and thocky sound profile, enhancing the overall typing experience. However, let's delve deeper into the specific characteristics of each switch to help you make the best decision for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Matcha and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches are both made from polycarbonate, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiff plastic that results in a clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, both switches feature clear housings that allow for RGB lighting to enhance the visual experience. Therefore, if you are looking for a switch with these qualities, either the Matcha or the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is a suitable choice.
However, it is important to note that if the top and bottom housings are different for a switch, the qualities of each housing material will be split. In the case of both switches, the top and bottom housings are made from polycarbonate, so the impact on the sound profile and feel will be similar between the two. Pressing down on either switch will provide a similar sensation as the qualities of the bottom housing come into play. The bottom-out sound and feel will be influenced by the stiffness and resonance of the polycarbonate material.
On the other hand, the release or "let go" of a key will produce sound characteristics influenced by the top housing. As both switches have polycarbonate top housings, the resulting sound profile when releasing a key will be comparable. The sharpness, higher pitch, and crispness will be present in both switches, creating an enjoyable and responsive typing experience.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the KTT Matcha and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches contribute to their overall sound profile and aesthetic appeal. Both switches feature polycarbonate top and bottom housings that produce a sharp, high-pitched, and clear sound. Whether it's the impact of pressing down or the sound produced when letting go of a key, these switches offer similar qualities. So, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and other factors such as switch weight and tactile feedback when deciding between the two.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Matcha has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring requires a slightly heavier force of 48 grams to trigger a keystroke. Similarly, the Matcha has a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams, whereas the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has a medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Matcha switch would be a suitable choice as it requires less force for both actuation and bottoming out. This can be advantageous for individuals who prefer to type for extended periods of time, such as when using the keyboard for work or during long gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch offers a slightly heavier push feel with its higher actuation and bottom out forces. This can provide a more substantial typing experience for those who desire a stronger tactile feedback while typing.
It is important to consider the weight of the switches as it directly affects the typing experience. However, it is worth noting that both switches fall within the range of a relatively light to medium-light force. Therefore, if someone is looking for a similar experience in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, both the Matcha and the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches would provide comparable results. Ultimately, the preference for a lighter or heavier switch would depend on the individual's personal typing preferences and the desired level of typing feedback.
Travel distance
The KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance of travel, resulting in a similar tactile feedback. Both switches offer a consistent and satisfying feel, allowing for comfortable and responsive typing experience. Whether it is the Matcha or the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, you can expect the same level of key travel distance, ensuring a reliable and enjoyable typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
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
In terms of sound, the KTT Matcha tactile switch offers a distinctly clean bottom-out sound due to its long pole stem. This results in a crisp, bright, and percussive sound that can be described as clacky. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is unknown. However, it is important to note that the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the KTT Matcha is described as having a stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle feel. Stepped switches provide a mild tactile experience with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. Snappy switches are highly responsive, giving the typing experience a more lively feel. Accented switches offer a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Feathery switches have an exceptionally light actuation force, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Subtle switches provide gentle resistance and a light typing feel that is suitable for shared spaces.
On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is described as being bouncy. This means that the keys provide a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, giving a lively feel and rebound when pressed. Unfortunately, there is no information available regarding the other subjective qualities of this switch, such as crispness, sharpness, or percussiveness.
In conclusion, the KTT Matcha tactile switch offers a comfortable and snappy tactility, producing a clean bottom-out sound. It has a stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle feel, providing a medium level of tactility without overwhelming the user. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is noted for its medium level of tactility, lower actuation and bottom-out force, and a deep and thocky sound profile. While the sound profile of the Shadow switch remains unknown, the bouncy feel of its keys gives it a lively and rebounding sensation. Ultimately, both switches offer unique subjective qualities, and depending on individual preferences, users can expect similar results in terms of feel and sound.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a light and comfortable tactile switch with a clean bottom-out sound, the KTT Matcha would be an excellent choice. With its snappy tactility and feathery feel, you can enjoy extended typing sessions without finger fatigue. The Matcha also offers a clacky sound profile which adds a crisp and bright element to your typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly higher bottom-out force and a medium level of tactility, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch would be a great option. Its bouncy feel provides a spring-like feedback sensation, giving your keystrokes a lively and elastic feel. The Shadow (Ink) Single Spring also features a deep and thocky sound profile, adding a satisfying audio component to your typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the Matcha and the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring depends on your specific preferences for actuation force, tactility level, sound, and feel.
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