KTT Pine vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the KTT Pine and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two options stand out: the KTT Pine and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to specific preferences. The KTT Pine is a linear switch known for its medium-heavy weight and buttery smooth feel. With its factory-lubed finish, these switches minimize friction and provide effortless typing. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is a tactile switch that provides a medium-high level of tactility. Its two-staged spring design offers a satisfying click and deep, resonating thocks while typing. The Pine is categorized as 'Bassy', 'Buttery', 'Creamy', and 'Low-pitched', while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is categorized as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Sharp', 'Accented', 'Snappy', 'Bouncy', and 'Stepped'. Both switches have their merits, but let's delve deeper into their characteristics to help you make the best decision for your typing style and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
15.5mm gold-plated spring
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Pine and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, specifically their polycarbonate top and bottom housings, share many similarities. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top and bottom housings to create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced by the switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. Therefore, both the Pine and the Shadow (Ink) provide similar sound characteristics and aesthetic benefits due to their identical polycarbonate housing materials.
Although the housing materials are the same, the Pine and the Shadow (Ink) switches may differ in terms of their overall sound profile due to the different arrangements of their top and bottom housings. When pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the bottom housing become more pronounced, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel experienced. Conversely, the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, while both switches may offer similar sound characteristics due to their polycarbonate housing materials, the arrangement and interaction of these materials within the switches may result in subtle differences in sound and tactile feedback.
In summary, the KTT Pine and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches feature polycarbonate housing materials for both their top and bottom housings. This choice of material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, and the translucency of polycarbonate is especially advantageous for incorporating RGB lighting. However, although the housing materials are the same, the arrangement and interaction of the top and bottom housings in each switch may lead to subtle variations in sound and tactile feedback. Overall, users can expect similar results and benefits from both switches due to their shared polycarbonate housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Pine linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, there are noticeable differences in their actuation forces and bottom out forces. The Pine switch has an actuation force of 45 grams, which is lighter than the Shadow switch's actuation force of 55 grams. This means that the Pine switch requires less force to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Pine switch has a force of 58 grams, while the Shadow switch has a force of 63 grams. Both switches fall into the medium force category, but the Shadow switch is slightly heavier in terms of bottom out force.
Considering the weight aspect, the Pine switch may be preferred by individuals who enjoy a lighter typing experience. The lower actuation force allows for comfortable typing over longer periods, making it suitable for work environments or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, for those seeking a more substantial and pronounced typing feel, the Shadow switch's higher actuation force might be the better option. It provides a stronger push feel and can enhance the overall tactile typing experience.
In conclusion, while both the KTT Pine linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch have medium actuation and bottom out forces, there are differences in their specific force measurements. The Pine switch is lighter in terms of actuation force, while the Shadow switch is heavier. However, for individuals looking for a similar typing experience, both switches offer medium force levels that should provide comparable results.
Travel distance
The KTT Pine linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch have equal travel distances of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will feel a consistent distance of 4 mm from the top to the bottom. Despite having the same travel distance, it is important to note that these switches belong to different types - the Pine is a linear switch while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is a tactile switch with double springs. Although the travel distance is the same, the experience of using these switches may still differ due to their distinct characteristics.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Pine has an MSRP of $4.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine 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
When it comes to sound, the KTT Pine linear switch offers a bassy and low-pitched profile. The deeper and richer sound associated with bass tones is characteristic of these switches, providing a satisfying auditory experience during key presses. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch produces a clacky and high-pitched sound. The sharp and crisp sound it produces is reminiscent of a percussion instrument. It is important to note that the sound of the switches can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the KTT Pine linear switch delivers a buttery and creamy typing experience. With a smooth and fluid keystroke, these switches offer a seamless and effortless sensation. Typing on the Pine switches feels like gliding across the keys effortlessly, as each keystroke melts into the next. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch provides a sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped tactile feedback. Each keypress is met with a distinct and intense tactile bump, giving a lively and responsive feel to the typing experience.
Overall, the KTT Pine linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Pine switch focuses on a bassy sound and a buttery smooth feel, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. On the other hand, the Shadow switch variant is characterized by a clacky sound and a sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped tactile feel, providing a medium-high level of tactility. Depending on your personal preference for sound and feel, you can choose between these switches to achieve your desired typing experience. It's important to keep in mind that individual sound and feel preferences may vary, and other factors like keyboard board and keycaps can also influence the overall experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Pine linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, there are a few key factors to consider.
First, if you are looking for a medium-bottom out force, both switches fit the bill with the Pine at 58 grams and the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring at 63 grams.
In terms of sound, the Pine offers a deep and rich bassy tone, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring provides a sharp and crisp clacky sound. If you prefer a lower frequency range and a bass-heavy tone, the Pine may be your preference. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more percussive and bright sound when typing, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring would be the way to go.
When it comes to feel, the Pine is described as buttery and creamy, offering a seamless and effortless typing experience. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, on the other hand, provides a sharp and intensified tactile bump, giving a distinct feedback with each keystroke. If you prefer smooth and fluid keystrokes, the Pine is the choice for you. However, if you desire a prominent amount of tactility without it being overwhelming, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring would be the better option.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Pine linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch depends on your personal preferences. Consider factors such as bottom out force, sound, and feel to determine which switch aligns best with your desired typing experience.
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