KTT Phalaenopsis vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the KTT Phalaenopsis and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the KTT Phalaenopsis and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring. The Phalaenopsis switch is known for its effortless typing experience, thanks to its light actuation force of 37g, which minimizes finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions. The satisfying 50g tactile force provides a discernible tactile bump with each keystroke, ensuring a delightful typing experience. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offers a medium-high level of tactility, making it a great choice for those who prefer a more noticeable tactile feedback. The two-staged spring in this variant adds to the tactile experience, and the deep, resonating thocks while typing make it stand out. Both switches have their own unique characteristics and categories, such as the Phalaenopsis being 'Bassy', 'Stepped', and 'Thocky', while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is categorized as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Sharp', 'Accented', 'Snappy', 'Bouncy', and 'Stepped'. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
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
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
The KTT Phalaenopsis and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring share similarities in their housing materials. Both switches feature polycarbonate top and bottom housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, contributing to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, its translucency makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound quality and aesthetics from both switches due to their shared housing material.
However, it's important to note that the distribution of the housing material may differ between the KTT Phalaenopsis and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring. If the top and bottom housings are distinct in a switch, the qualities brought by each material will be split between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on either switch, the qualities of the bottom housing will be more pronounced, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. This distinction in housing distribution can potentially lead to subtle variations in the overall typing experience between the two switches.
In conclusion, the KTT Phalaenopsis and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring share the same polycarbonate housing material, resulting in similar sound profiles and visual appeal. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, while its translucency enhances the effectiveness of RGB lighting. However, the distribution of the housing material may influence the specific sound and feel characteristics of each switch. With the bottom housing predominantly affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing influencing the sound when releasing a key, users may experience slight differences in their typing experience between the two switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, there are noticeable differences. The Phalaenopsis has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Phalaenopsis requires 50 grams, whereas the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring requires a slightly higher force of 63 grams.
Considering weight and force is crucial when selecting a switch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Phalaenopsis would be a suitable choice, as its actuation and bottom out forces are lower. This allows for extended typing periods, making it ideal for work or lengthy gaming sessions. However, if one prefers a stronger and more substantial typing feel, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring would be preferred due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces.
It's important to note that while the forces differ between these two switches, they both provide a tactile feedback when pressed. Therefore, regardless of the lighter or heavier feel, both switches will deliver similar results in terms of providing tactile feedback to the user. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on the user's preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distances of the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch are both 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will feel a similar distance traveled. Both switches provide a consistent tactile feedback and actuation point at this travel distance. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, you can expect to get similar results with either switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis for $4.15.
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 Phalaenopsis tactile switch is known for its bassy and thocky sound profile. This means that when the key is pressed and released, it produces a deep, rich, and satisfying sound resembling a deep "thud" or a soft "knock". On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch is described as clacky and high-pitched. When pressed, it produces a sharp, crisp, and percussive sound. If you prefer a deeper, richer sound profile, the Phalaenopsis switch would be the better choice. However, if you prefer a crisper, brighter sound, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch would be more suitable. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Speaking of feel, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch is described as a stepped switch, meaning it has two stages of tactile feedback. It provides a mild tactile experience with some pre-travel and/or post-travel sensation. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch has multiple descriptors for its feel. It is known as sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped. This means that it offers a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be felt distinctly with each keypress. It also provides a responsive and lively typing experience, thanks to the longer or dual-staged springs. If you prefer a switch with a more pronounced and intense tactile feedback, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch would be the better choice.
In conclusion, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch have different subjective qualities. The Phalaenopsis switch provides a satisfying and discernible tactile bump with a medium actuation force. It offers a bassy and thocky sound profile, and a mild stepped feel. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offers a higher level of tactility with a stronger and crisper tactile bump. It produces a clacky and high-pitched sound and has a sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped feel. If you are looking for a switch with a lighter actuation force, the Phalaenopsis switch would be a good choice. However, if you prefer a switch with a more intense tactile feedback, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch would be more suitable. Overall, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a lighter actuation force and a satisfying tactile bump, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch would be an excellent choice for you. With its bottom out force of 50 grams, typing becomes effortless and finger fatigue is minimized. The Phalaenopsis switch also offers a delightful typing experience with its discernible tactile bump. It is best known for its beautiful translucent design. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-high level of tactility and enjoy a deep, resonating sound when typing, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch is perfect for you. With a slightly higher bottom out force of 63 grams, these switches provide a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is also characterized by its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, adding a crisp and percussive element to your typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your preferences for actuation force, tactile feedback, sound profile, and overall feel.
Mentioned in this article
