KTT Peach vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the KTT Peach and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, two standout options are the KTT Peach, a linear switch, and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, a tactile switch. The Peach switch is highly regarded for its exceptional features, including a smooth and effortless typing experience, accompanied by a satisfying deep and thocky sound. This linear switch falls under the categories of 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', and 'Mild', offering a delightful typing sensation. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch from Aflion is recommended for those seeking a tactile switch with moderate tactility. With a lower actuation and bottom-out force, this switch provides an approachable level of tactile feedback. Similar to the Peach, it also offers a deep and thocky sound profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities, so you can make a well-informed decision on the best switch for your unique needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
13mm progressive spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The KTT Peach and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring share the same material for their polycarbonate top housing. This material choice creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The use of polycarbonate, known for its stiffness, allows for a more clear and resonant sound when typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially advantageous for users planning to utilize RGB lighting, as it allows for better light distribution. Overall, the top housing of both switches will provide a similar sound and aesthetic experience.
However, the housing materials used for the bottom housing of these switches differ. The Peach utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring uses a polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, polycarbonate is stiffer and leads to a sharper and crisper sound. This means that when typing on the Peach, the bottom housing's characteristics will play a significant role in determining the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing will have a more noticeable impact on the sound when releasing a key.
It is important to note that if a switch's top and bottom housings are different, the qualities offered by each material will be divided between the top and the bottom of the switch. In the case of the Peach and the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, the differences between their bottom housings will result in distinct typing experiences. The Peach's nylon bottom housing will create a softer and rounder sound, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's polycarbonate bottom housing will provide a sharper and more defined sound. This divergence in housing materials will be most noticeable when pressing down on the switches, as the bottom housing directly influences the bottom-out sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Peach linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. Both switches fall under the category of medium-light in terms of their forces. The Peach has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams.
In terms of actuation force, the Peach requires slightly less force at 45 grams compared to the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's 48 grams. This means that the Peach may be perceived as lighter and more responsive when triggering keystrokes. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has a slightly higher bottom out force of 55 grams compared to the Peach's 53 grams. This indicates that the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring might provide a slightly firmer and more substantial typing experience when pressing all the way down.
Overall, the differences in actuation force and bottom out force between the two switches are relatively marginal. Both switches fall into the medium-light range, and while the Peach is lighter in terms of actuation force, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is slightly heavier when bottoming out. Therefore, individuals seeking a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Peach, while those who prefer a slightly more substantial feel may opt for the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring. Ultimately, both switches can provide comparable results, ensuring a satisfying typing experience with either choice.
Travel distance
The KTT Peach linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches will provide a similar experience in terms of the distance you feel when you press down on a key. Whether you choose the Peach or the Shadow (Ink), you can expect a consistent travel distance of 4 mm. Thus, there is no significant difference in the travel distance between the two switches.
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 Peach comes in at $2.91 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 Peach linear switch is best known for its syrupy smooth typing experience and deep, thocky sound profile. It produces a low-pitched sound which typically features a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. This makes it suitable for both beginners and advanced users, as well as for use at home or work. The feel of the Peach switch is described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience. It falls in a safe, middle-ground zone, making it approachable to most users.
On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is highly recommended for those looking for a tactile switch with medium tactility. It features a lower actuation and bottom-out force, resulting in a very approachable tactility. The sound profile of the Shadow switch is also described as deep and thocky, similar to the Peach switch. However, since there is no specific information available about the sound of the Shadow switch, it is difficult to make a direct comparison.
In terms of feel, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is described as bouncy. This means it provides a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, giving the keys a lively feel and rebound when pressed. Although there is no specific information available about the feel of the Peach switch, it is likely to have a more mild and gentle typing experience based on the mentioned characteristics.
In conclusion, both the KTT Peach linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch offer a deep, thocky sound profile. The Peach switch is best known for its syrupy smooth typing experience and features a mild feel, while the Shadow switch provides medium tactility and a bouncy feel. Based on the available information, users can expect similar results in terms of sound, but may experience different levels of tactility and feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a smooth typing experience, the KTT Peach switch is an excellent choice. With its syrupy smooth feel and deep, thocky sound profile, typing on the Peach switches will surely be a delight. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is highly recommended. It features a lower actuation and bottom-out force, providing a very approachable level of tactility. The deep and thocky sound profile adds to the overall typing experience. In terms of sound, the Peach switch has a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch does not have a specified sound description. As for the feel, the Peach switch offers a mild and gentle typing experience, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch provides a bouncy and lively feel with its elastic feedback sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your preference for linear or tactile switches and the specific qualities you prioritize in a typing experience.
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