KTT Pine vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the KTT Pine and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a high-quality mechanical keyboard switch, you may be torn between the KTT Pine and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring. The KTT Pine is a linear switch that boasts medium-heavy weight and a buttery smooth feel, perfect for those seeking an effortless typing experience. Its polished, factory-lubed finish reduces friction, resulting in incredibly smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is a tactile switch that offers a medium level of tactility. With a lower actuation and bottom-out force, it provides a friendly and approachable tactility. Additionally, its deep and thocky sound profile adds to the overall typing experience. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
55g
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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Pine and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, specifically their polycarbonate top and bottom housings, share several similarities. Both switches utilize polycarbonate, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, allowing for a more clear and resonant sound experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting.
However, one key difference lies in the distribution of these housing materials. In the KTT Pine switch, the polycarbonate top and bottom housings both contribute to the overall sound profile. When pressing down on the Pine switch, you will experience the qualities of both housings, as the bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This shared responsibility between the top and bottom housings can result in a balanced and versatile auditory experience.
In comparison, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring opts for a different approach. The switch also features polycarbonate top and bottom housings, but the qualities of each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. When using the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, you will primarily feel the impact of the bottom housing when pressing down on a key, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing is weighted more towards the release sound, affecting the sound produced when lifting a key. This division of responsibilities can result in targeted and nuanced sound characteristics for those seeking specific auditory feedback in their typing experience.
In summary, while both the KTT Pine and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring share the use of polycarbonate top and bottom housings, the KTT Pine distributes the qualities of these materials evenly, resulting in a balanced sound profile, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring separates the responsibilities, providing targeted auditory feedback for pressing and releasing keys. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences regarding sound and feel during typing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Pine linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, there are some similarities and differences to note. Starting with the actuation force, the Pine requires 45 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring requires slightly more at 48 grams. Both switches fall into the medium category, providing a balanced feel. Moving on to the bottom out force, the Pine requires 58 grams to fully press down, whereas the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring requires slightly less at 55 grams. This makes the Pine switch slightly heavier in terms of bottoming out.
Considering weight, some users may prefer a lighter switch like the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, as it allows for longer typing sessions without experiencing fatigue. This makes it an ideal option for those who use their keyboards extensively for work or gaming. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may opt for the Pine switch, as its slightly heavier bottom out force can provide that satisfying tactile feedback.
In summary, the Pine linear switch and the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch have similar actuation forces, with the Pine being slightly lighter. However, the Pine switch has a slightly heavier bottom out force compared to the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring. This provides users with a choice between a more substantial typing experience or a lighter feel for prolonged typing sessions.
Travel distance
The KTT Pine 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 consistent distance for users to feel when pressing down on a key. Whether it's the Pine or the Shadow (Ink), users can expect a similar tactile experience with regards to the travel distance. Both switches offer a moderate amount of travel, which could be suitable for those who prefer a medium-depth key press. Overall, these switches provide similar results in terms of travel distance, ensuring a consistent typing experience for users.
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) 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
When it comes to sound, the KTT Pine linear switch offers a bassy and low-pitched profile during key presses. This results in a deeper and richer sound that resembles the depth and richness associated with bass tones. On the other hand, information about the sound profile of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is not available. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the KTT Pine linear switch is described as buttery and creamy. This implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. The application of lubricant in the switch at the factory contributes to this silky sensation, allowing fingers to effortlessly glide across the keys. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is described as bouncy. This provides a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, giving the keys a lively feel and rebound when pressed.
Considering the available information, the KTT Pine linear switch excels in providing a deep and rich sound profile with smooth and effortless typing experience. However, details about the sound and other subjective qualities of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch are unknown. If you are seeking similar results in terms of sound and feel, the KTT Pine linear switch would be a reliable choice. Ultimately, the selection between the two switches would depend on personal preferences in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a medium-heavy switch with a smooth and effortless typing experience, the KTT Pine linear switch would be a great choice. With its polished and factory-lubed finish, it minimizes friction for smooth key travel. It also offers a bassy and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deeper and richer tone during key presses. In terms of feel, the Pine switch is described as buttery and creamy, offering a seamless and silky typing experience.
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, making it approachable and comfortable to use. Additionally, it offers a deep and thocky sound profile, providing a satisfying auditory experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Pine and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch comes down to your personal preferences. If you prioritize a smooth and heavy typing experience with a bassy sound, the Pine switch is ideal. However, if you prefer a tactile switch with a lower force and a thocky sound, the Shadow switch would be a better fit. Consider your typing style and sound preferences to make the decision that best suits your needs.
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