KTT Orange vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the KTT Orange and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two options that often come up in discussions are the KTT Orange and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring. While they both offer unique features, they cater to different preferences. The KTT Orange switches are known for their bouncy feel, frictionless typing experience, and low-pitched sound profile. With its factory-lubed components, these switches provide a refined and fluid key travel. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch offers a tactile experience with a medium level of tactility. It has a lower actuation and bottom-out force, resulting in a comfortable typing experience. Additionally, it boasts a deep and thocky sound profile. Both switches have distinct qualities that make them attractive options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
46g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Orange and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring have several similarities. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top and bottom housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, enhancing the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, both switches feature a clear housing, making them ideal for use with RGB lighting. Therefore, if you are looking for a switch with these particular sound and aesthetic qualities, both the Orange and the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring can deliver similar results.
However, if we consider the differences between the top and bottom housings, we find that the qualities brought by each material can vary. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when it is pressed down. Therefore, the material used for the bottom housing can significantly influence the overall typing experience, providing a distinct tactile response and auditory feedback upon pressing a key. In contrast, the top housing primarily affects the sound produced when a key is released, resulting in a different auditory experience. Consequently, while both the Orange and the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring share similar housing materials, the specific nuances of their top and bottom housings can result in subtle differences in sound and feel.
In summary, the KTT Orange and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring share polycarbonate as their housing material, offering a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. They both cater to RGB lighting enthusiasts due to their translucent housing. However, the differences in their top and bottom housings can influence the typing experience. While the bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel of a key press, the top housing primarily affects the sound when a key is released. Therefore, while the overall sound profile may be similar, the specific characteristics brought by each housing material can result in subtle variations between the two switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Orange linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, it is clear that both switches fall into the medium-light category. The actuation force of the Orange switch is 46 grams, while the Shadow switch requires a slightly higher force of 48 grams to trigger a keystroke. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Orange switch is 53 grams, while the Shadow switch requires a slightly higher force of 55 grams to fully press down.
For those who prefer a lighter switch, the Orange linear switch would be a suitable choice, as it offers a slightly lower actuation and bottom out force. This lighter weight allows for longer typing periods, making it ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, as it requires a slightly heavier force for both actuation and bottoming out. This heavier force provides a stronger push feel, offering a satisfying typing experience.
Although there is a slight difference in the actuation and bottom out forces between the two switches, the similarity in their medium-light nature means that users can expect comparable results in terms of typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference, with individuals selecting the lighter Orange switch for longer typing sessions and the heavier Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch for a more substantial and satisfying typing feel.
Travel distance
The KTT Orange linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch have different travel distances. The Orange has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of traditional travel distances, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring falls within the most common range at 4.0 mm. On the other hand, the Orange offers a slightly shallower travel distance.
For gamers or those seeking faster response times, the Orange's shorter travel distance may be preferred. The shorter distance allows for quicker key presses, which can be advantageous in fast-paced gaming scenarios. However, for individuals who value a deeper key feel, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's longer travel distance may be more suitable. The added depth provides a more satisfying tactile experience when typing or gaming.
Overall, while the Orange and Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches have different travel distances, both can provide satisfactory results depending on personal preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Orange has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange for $4.15.
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 Orange switch is best known for its low-pitched sound profile. This means that the switch produces a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is unknown. It's important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, both the KTT Orange and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches are described as bouncy. Bouncy switches provide a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, where the keys have a lively feel and rebound when pressed. However, the KTT Orange switch is further described as frictionless. This means that it offers an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction when pressing the keys. The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch does not have a specific description of its level of smoothness.
Based on the available information, it seems that both the KTT Orange and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches provide a bouncy feel. However, the KTT Orange switch is specifically mentioned to have a frictionless experience, while there is no mention of this aspect for the Aflion switch. In terms of sound, the KTT Orange switch has a low-pitched profile, while the sound profile of the Aflion switch is unknown. It's important to keep in mind that individual preferences may vary, and it is recommended to try out different switches to find the one that suits your personal typing preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium-light bottom out force, the KTT Orange switch is a great choice. It offers a bouncy and frictionless typing experience, thanks to its 22mm long spring, polycarbonate milky top housing, and long pole POM stem. This switch provides a low-pitched sound profile, giving you a bass-heavy and mellow tone while typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is worth considering. It has a slightly higher bottom out force but still falls under the medium-light category. With its single spring design, you'll experience a bouncy feel and a deep, thocky sound profile. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you're looking for.
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