KTT Phalaenopsis vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the KTT Phalaenopsis and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Phalaenopsis and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer different advantages for users. The Phalaenopsis is best known for its beautiful translucent design, with a light actuation force of 37g that makes typing effortless and minimizes finger fatigue. Additionally, its 50g tactile force provides a satisfying and discernible tactile bump, ensuring a delightful keystroke experience. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is recommended for those seeking a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility. With a lower actuation and bottom-out force, it offers a very approachable tactility and features a deep and thocky sound profile. While these general pointers give a glimpse into each switch's unique characteristics, diving deeper will help you make the best decision for your needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
The KTT Phalaenopsis and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring share similarities in their housing materials. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top and bottom housings, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is known for being a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a clear and resonant sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting.
One key difference between the two switches lies in their design. While both the Phalaenopsis and the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring feature polycarbonate top and bottom housings, it is important to note that the qualities of each housing material are split between the two components. When pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing's characteristics come into play, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing dominates the sound produced when releasing a key. This distinction highlights how the arrangement of the housing materials affects the overall typing experience and auditory feedback.
Despite the subtle differences, the use of polycarbonate in both the top and bottom housings of the Phalaenopsis and the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring ensures that users can expect similar results in terms of sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate brings clarity and resonance to the sound produced by both switches, creating a satisfying typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the effective transmission of RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetics of the switches when used in combination with illuminated keycaps.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, there are notable differences. The Phalaenopsis has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Shadow's 48 grams, making it easier to trigger a keystroke. Similarly, the Phalaenopsis has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams compared to the Shadow's 55 grams. This means that the Phalaenopsis provides a lighter and smoother typing experience overall. However, both switches fall under the category of being relatively light, making them suitable for extended periods of typing or gaming. If one prefers a lighter touch, the Phalaenopsis would be the ideal choice, while the Shadow can offer a slightly more substantial and tactile typing experience. Ultimately, whether one prefers a lighter or heavier force will depend on personal preference and the desired level of feedback during typing.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch have a 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 4 mm of travel. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, you can expect similar results from both switches. Whether it's the Phalaenopsis or the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, you'll be able to enjoy a consistent and satisfying tactile response with an equal travel distance.
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) 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 Phalaenopsis switches offer a bassy and thocky sound profile. Bassy switches produce a deeper and richer sound, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. This adds a satisfying and full-bodied auditory experience during key presses. On the other hand, a thocky keyboard switch, like the Phalaenopsis, produces a deep and rich sound that can be characterized as a deep "thud" or a soft "knock" when the key is pressed and released. The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches do not have a specific sound description provided, so it is unclear how they sound. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also depend on factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
In terms of feel, the KTT Phalaenopsis switches are described as having a stepped feel. Stepped switches are tactile switches that provide a two-stage experience. Unlike hypertactile switches that have a pronounced bump throughout the keystroke, stepped switches have a milder tactile feedback. Users can feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel, adding a subtle tactility to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches are described as bouncy. Bouncy switches offer a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, providing a lively feel with rebound when pressed.
In conclusion, the KTT Phalaenopsis switches offer a delightful typing experience with effortless typing, minimized finger fatigue, and a discernible tactile bump. They have a bassy and thocky sound profile, and a stepped feel that provides a mild tactility. The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches, on the other hand, are recommended for those seeking a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility. They have lower actuation and bottom-out forces, making them approachable in terms of tactility. While the sound description and feel of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches are not provided, it is possible to expect similar results in terms of feel due to the bouncy nature of the switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the overall typing experience desired.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a light and effortless typing experience with a discernible tactile bump, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch would be your best choice. With a bottom out force of 50 grams, this switch provides a satisfying feel and minimizes finger fatigue even during prolonged typing sessions. Additionally, the Phalaenopsis switch is known for its bassy and thocky sound profile, offering a deeper and richer sound during key presses. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility and a lower actuation and bottom-out force, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is highly recommended. This switch features a very approachable tactility and a deep, thocky sound profile. Moreover, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch offers a bouncy feel, providing a spring-like sensation and lively rebound when pressed. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on your preference for typing force, sound profile, and desired feel.
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