KTT Purple Star vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the KTT Purple Star and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Purple Star linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, it's clear that they offer unique typing experiences due to their distinct characteristics. The Purple Star stands out for its all-POM construction and buttery smooth feel, perfect for those who prefer a light typing experience with neutral sound. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offers a medium-high level of tactility and deep thocks, making it ideal for those who enjoy a more tactile typing feel. While the Purple Star is easy to press and low-pitched, the Shadow switch is clacky, high-pitched, sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you better decide on the best switch for your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Purple Star and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, it is evident that both switches offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials. The Purple Star utilizes POM for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring features polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Despite the differences in sound, both switches provide a pleasing and unique auditory experience.
One key distinction between the two switches lies in the material used for their top housing. The Purple Star's POM top housing is known for producing a deeper sound compared to the polycarbonate top housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, which offers a sharper and clearer sound. This difference in sound profile can impact the overall typing experience for users, with the POM housing providing a more subdued sound and the polycarbonate housing delivering a more vibrant and resonant sound.
Furthermore, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for enhanced aesthetics, especially when paired with RGB lighting. This feature makes the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring a visually appealing option for those looking to customize their keyboard setup. In contrast, while the Purple Star may not offer the same level of visual customization, its POM housing still provides a unique typing experience with its deep and muted sound profile. Overall, both switches offer distinct advantages based on their housing materials, catering to a variety of preferences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The KTT Purple Star linear switch is lighter in terms of actuation and bottom out force compared to the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch. The Purple Star has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams. This makes the Purple Star more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer periods of typing or gaming without fatigue. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring provides a medium level of actuation and bottom out force, giving users a more substantial and tactile typing experience. Both switches offer different weight options, catering to users with preferences for either lighter or heavier forces. If matched, similar results in terms of typing experience can be achieved for users who prefer the same actuation and bottom out force levels.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Purple Star linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of typical travel distances for mechanical switches. Gamers may prefer the Purple Star due to its shorter travel distance, providing a faster response time for rapid key presses. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offers a slightly deeper feel with its longer travel distance, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The KTT Purple Star comes in at $4.88 per 10 switches.
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 Purple Star linear switch offers a low-pitched and mellow tone, perfect for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch provides a clacky and sharp sound profile, creating a more percussive typing noise. Depending on your preference for sound, the Purple Star will deliver a more bass-heavy and neutral tone, while the Shadow switch will give you a sharper and crisper auditory feedback.
In terms of feel, the Purple Star switch offers a mild and easy-to-press typing experience, catering to light typists who value comfort and minimal resistance during typing sessions. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch provides a sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped tactile feel, ideal for users who enjoy a high level of tactility and feedback with each keypress. If you prefer a gentler and more effortless typing experience, the Purple Star switch would be the way to go, while the Shadow switch caters to those who seek a more intense and responsive typing feel.
Overall, the KTT Purple Star and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Purple Star provides a smoother and quieter typing experience with its low-pitched sound and gentle actuation force, making it suitable for light typists seeking comfort. On the other hand, the Shadow switch delivers a more intense and tactile typing experience with its clacky sound and sharp tactile feedback, catering to users who prefer a more pronounced typing sensation. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that will enhance your overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the KTT Purple Star linear switch or the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, you should keep in mind a few key factors. If you prefer a lighter switch with a smooth typing experience and a low-pitched sound profile, the Purple Star may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you desire a switch with medium-high tactility, a slightly higher bottom-out force, and a clacky, high-pitched sound profile, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch would be a better fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and typing style. Make sure to consider these aspects carefully before making your final choice between these two unique mechanical keyboard switches.
Mentioned in this article
