KTT Purple Click vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the KTT Purple Click 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 that offer unique experiences are the KTT Purple Click and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches. The Purple Click switch is renowned for its high-pitched, satisfying click, providing a keystroke that is light yet offers pronounced tactility without being overwhelming. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offers a medium-high level of tactility, thanks to its two-staged spring, resulting in deep, resonating thocks while typing. Both switches have their own distinctive qualities and characteristics that appeal to different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
The KTT Purple Click and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing material. This results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, making it aesthetically appealing for users who enjoy customizable lighting options. With similar top housing materials, both switches are likely to provide a comparable sound experience and visual appeal.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Purple Click features a nylon housing while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring uses polycarbonate. This difference in materials leads to contrasting sound profiles. The nylon bottom housing of the Purple Click creates a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to its softer nature and ability to absorb more sound. On the other hand, the stiffer polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound. Therefore, users can expect a more rounded and duller sound experience from the Purple Click, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring will offer a sharper and crisper sound.
It's important to note that the bottom housing material has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing material affects the sound when releasing a key. This means that despite the difference in bottom housing materials, both the Purple Click and the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring will still provide a similar experience in terms of key press response and overall switch performance. However, the contrasting sound profiles in the bottom-out and release sounds might appeal to different preferences, with the Purple Click offering a deeper and fuller sound and the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring providing a sharper and clearer sound.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Purple Click clicky switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, it is clear that there are differences in their weight. The Purple Click has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch when typing or gaming for extended periods. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams, providing a more substantial and satisfying typing experience for individuals who prefer a stronger push feel.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Purple Click measures at 55 grams, which is slightly heavier than its actuation force but still falls within the medium-light category. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has a bottom out force of 63 grams, making it slightly heavier than the actuation force. This ensures that when pressing the keys all the way down, there is a noticeable resistance, delivering a solid and precise typing experience.
While the actuation and bottom out forces of the two switches differ, it is worth noting that both switches offer a medium weight range, making them suitable choices for individuals who prefer a balanced typing experience. Whether one prefers a lighter touch or a more substantial feel, both switches provide options that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the two would depend on personal preference and the specific typing or gaming requirements of the user.
Travel distance
The KTT Purple Click clicky switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double 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 pressing down on a key. Whether you choose the Purple Click or the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, you can expect the same level of key travel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Purple Click has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Click for $2.55.
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
The Purple Click switch is known for its high-pitched and satisfying click sound. It provides a light typing experience with a pronounced tactility that strikes a perfect balance. The keystrokes are invigorating, offering moderate to firm actuation force and a snappy and reactive feel. It can be described as a stepped switch, meaning it has two stages with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. Overall, the Purple Click switch delivers an immersive typing sensation with its unique sound and feel.
On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offers a medium-high level of tactility. Typing on these switches produces deep and resonating thocks, resulting in a clacky sound. The switch has a sharp and crisp tactile bump, providing a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. It is also described as snappy and bouncy, offering a spring-like feedback sensation with a lively feel upon pressing the keys. Like the Purple Click, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is also a stepped switch, providing a mild tactile experience with noticeable pre-travel and/or post-travel.
When comparing the two switches, the Purple Click has a higher-pitched and resonant sound profile, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound. Both switches have their own unique auditory experience but deliver similarly satisfying results. In terms of feel, the Purple Click provides a lighter and invigorating typing experience, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offers a sharper and more intense tactile feedback. Both switches exhibit a stepped feel with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a light bottom out force, a satisfying high-pitched click, and a balanced level of tactility, then the KTT Purple Click switch is the way to go. The Purple Click offers invigorating and stepped typing experience, creating an immersive and reactive feel. In terms of sound, these switches produce a crunchy and resonant sound profile, offering an enjoyable auditory experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a slightly heavier bottom out force and a medium-high level of tactility, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is a great choice. These switches provide a sharp and crisp tactile bump, accentuated by their sharp, clacky sound profile. Additionally, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offers a snappy and bouncy typing experience, making every keystroke feel lively and responsive. Therefore, when selecting between the KTT Purple Click and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, consider your preferences for bottom out force, tactility, and sound to determine which switch best suits your typing style and preferences.
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