KTT MoonRosa vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the KTT MoonRosa and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT MoonRosa linear switch to the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, it's clear that both offer unique features that cater to different typing preferences. The MoonRosa switch is praised for its buttery smooth typing experience and neutral sound signature, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a mild, low-pitched, and easy-to-press switch. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring provides a medium level of tactility with a lower actuation and bottom-out force, resulting in a bouncy feel that is approachable for tactile switch enthusiasts. 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
37g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Partial box
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The main difference between the housing materials of the KTT MoonRosa and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring lies in the type of plastic used. The MoonRosa's POM housing creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's polycarbonate housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This means that users looking for a quieter typing experience may prefer the MoonRosa, while those seeking a more pronounced and vibrant sound may lean towards the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring.
In terms of aesthetics, the choice between POM and polycarbonate housing can also make a difference. The translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the visual appeal of the switches. On the other hand, the opaque nature of POM may be preferred by those who prioritize a more classic and understated look for their keyboard. Ultimately, the housing material can play a significant role not only in the sound but also in the overall appearance of the switches.
While the housing materials of the MoonRosa and Shadow (Ink) Single Spring differ, both offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer the deeper and more muted sound of POM or the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate, each housing material brings its own qualities to the typing experience. Additionally, the choice between POM and polycarbonate can also impact the aesthetics of the switches, with polycarbonate allowing for RGB lighting effects to shine through while POM offers a more classic and opaque look. Ultimately, the housing material is a key factor to consider when selecting switches for your keyboard setup to ensure you get the sound and visual appearance that best suits your preferences.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT MoonRosa linear switch are lighter compared to the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch. The MoonRosa requires 37 grams of actuation force and 45 grams of bottom out force, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring needs 48 grams of actuation force and 55 grams of bottom out force. This means that the MoonRosa provides a lighter typing experience overall. The lighter actuation force of the MoonRosa may be preferable for those who type for extended periods of time or engage in long gaming sessions, as it can reduce finger fatigue. On the contrary, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offers a slightly heavier typing feel, which some users may prefer for a more substantial and tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the KTT MoonRosa linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, it is clear that the MoonRosa has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's 4 mm. The difference may seem minimal, but it can have a significant impact on typing or gaming experience. Gamers who value quick response times may opt for the MoonRosa with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring. Both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, but the slight variance in travel distance can cater to different preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The KTT MoonRosa comes in at $4.88 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
When it comes to sound, the MoonRosa linear switch offers a low-pitched profile that provides a bass-heavy and mellow tone during typing. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offers a deep and thocky sound profile that complements its tactile feedback. Both switches offer a pleasant typing experience in terms of sound, with the MoonRosa leaning towards a smoother and more neutral sound, and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) providing a deeper and more pronounced typing sound.
In terms of feel, the MoonRosa linear switch offers a mild typing experience with a gentle tactile feedback that falls in a safe, middle-ground zone. It is also easy-to-press, requiring minimal force to activate, making typing effortless and comfortable. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch offers a bouncy feel with a spring-like feedback sensation that provides a lively and rebound effect during key presses. Both switches offer a different typing experience in terms of feel, with the MoonRosa focusing on a gentle and easy-to-press typing feel, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) delivers a more lively and bouncy typing experience.
In conclusion, the KTT MoonRosa linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the MoonRosa provides a smooth and neutral sound with a mild and easy-to-press typing feel, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) offers a deep and thocky sound with a bouncy and lively typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, each with its own unique characteristics. If one prefers a light and smooth typing experience with a low-pitched sound, the MoonRosa would be an excellent choice. In contrast, for those seeking a more tactile and lively typing experience with a deep and thocky sound, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch would be a great option. Ultimately, both switches offer quality performance tailored to different preferences and typing styles.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the KTT MoonRosa linear switch or the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a light and buttery smooth typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the MoonRosa may be the best choice for you. However, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility and a deep, thocky sound profile, then the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is worth considering. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider what factors are most important to you when selecting a mechanical keyboard switch. Ultimately, the decision is yours to make based on what you value most in a keyboard switch.
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