KTT Rose vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the KTT Rose and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Rose and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct experiences for keyboard enthusiasts. The Rose switch, known for its beautiful aesthetics, goes beyond its visual appeal with its unique use of progressive springs. This results in a typing experience that is substantial without being heavy, reminiscent of bassy raindrops. Categorized as low-pitched, neutral, mild, and polished, the Rose switch provides a delightful typing experience. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch offers a different tactile experience. If you prefer a switch with medium tactility, this variant of Aflion’s Shadow switch is highly recommended. With a lower actuation and bottom-out force, it provides an approachable tactility that is suited for a wide range of users. Additionally, the deep and thocky sound profile only adds to the tactile experience. Categorized as bouncy, the Shadow switch offers a satisfying feedback while typing. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so that you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences and typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Progressive spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Rose and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, specifically the polycarbonate top housing, have a similar effect on the sound profile of the switches. Both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics when using either switch.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Rose features a nylon material while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring uses polycarbonate. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the stiffer nature of the polycarbonate bottom housing in the Shadow switch contributes to a more clear and resonant sound. This indicates that the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch will be influenced by the bottom housing material.
It's important to note that the top housing plays a significant role in the sound when you release a key, while the bottom housing affects the sound and feel when you press down on the switch. Therefore, while both switches have similarities in their top housing materials and their impact on sound, the difference in bottom housing materials will offer distinct tactile experiences to the users.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Rose linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, there are noticeable differences. The Rose switch has an actuation force that is unavailable in terms of grams, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring requires 48 grams of force to actuate. This indicates that the Shadow switch is lighter in terms of actuation force. Regarding bottom out force, the Rose switch requires 63.5 grams, which is considered medium-heavy, while the Shadow switch only requires 55 grams, classifying it as medium-light. Therefore, the Rose switch is heavier in terms of bottom out force.
Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing switches for various purposes. Some individuals prefer lighter switches as it allows for longer typing sessions or extended gaming periods. These lighter switches reduce the strain on the fingers and result in a more comfortable and fatigue-free experience. On the other hand, some users prefer a more substantial typing experience and opt for switches with heavier forces. These switches provide a stronger push feel, enhancing the tactile feedback and giving a sense of durability and reliability.
In this comparison, the lighter option is the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch, with its lower actuation force of 48 grams and bottom out force of 55 grams. This makes it suitable for individuals who prioritize longer typing sessions or enjoy a lighter typing experience. On the contrary, the Rose switch, with its unavailable actuation force and higher bottom out force of 63.5 grams, offers a sturdier and more substantial typing feel.
It is worth mentioning that if someone prefers a similar typing experience to the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch, they can achieve comparable results by using the Rose switch without knowing its exact actuation force. While the bottom out force would be heavier in the case of the Rose switch, the actuation force remains unknown, and it could potentially align with the desired lighter feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preferences and the typing experience one desires.
Travel distance
The KTT Rose 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 similar tactile feedback and distance when pressed. Hence, users can expect to get similar results in terms of the travel distance experienced when using either of these switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The KTT Rose comes in at $3.01 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
In terms of sound, the KTT Rose linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile. These switches have a bass-heavy and mellow tone, making them quite pleasant to type on. The neutral sound profile means that they are suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and it works well in both home and work environments. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch does not have a specific description of its sound qualities mentioned in the provided information. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. However, based on the information given, the KTT Rose switches are more known for their distinct low-pitched sound while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches do not have a specific sound description.
In terms of feel, the KTT Rose linear switch is described as providing a mild and polished typing experience. The mild characteristic means that these switches offer a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. This makes them approachable and suitable for most users. The polished finish of these switches contributes to a smooth and refined typing experience, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is described as providing a bouncy feel. Bouncy switches have a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, which gives the keys a lively feel and a rebound effect when pressed.
Considering the available information, the KTT Rose linear switch offers a low-pitched sound profile and a mild, polished feel. It provides a uniquely substantial typing experience with its progressive springs, and the sound of typing on these switches is reminiscent of bassy raindrops. The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch, on the other hand, offers a medium level of tactility with a lower actuation and bottom-out force. Although there is no specific description of its sound qualities provided, it is mentioned to have a deep and thocky sound profile. It also provides a bouncy feel, giving the keys a lively and spring-like sensation.
In conclusion, the KTT Rose linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Rose switch provides a low-pitched sound profile with a mild and polished typing experience, while the Shadow switch offers a medium level of tactility with a potential deep and thocky sound profile and a bouncy feel. Both switches have their own unique characteristics, and the final choice would depend on personal preferences and typing style. However, it is important to consider that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Conclusion
In summary, if you are looking for a medium-heavy switch with a uniquely substantial typing experience and a low-pitched, neutral sound profile, the KTT Rose linear switch is a great choice. Its progressive springs provide a satisfying typing experience without being too heavy, and its low-pitched sound adds a touch of bass to your keystrokes. Additionally, the Rose switch offers a mild and polished feel, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light switch with a moderate level of tactility and a deep, thocky sound profile, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is recommended. With its lower actuation and bottom-out force, this switch offers an approachable level of tactility without being too overwhelming. The deep and thocky sound profile adds a satisfying auditory experience to your typing. Furthermore, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch provides a bouncy feel, giving your keystrokes a lively and spring-like sensation.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Rose linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch depends on your preference for typing force, sound profile, and tactile feedback. Consider the qualities and features mentioned above to determine which switch aligns more with your personal preferences and typing style. Both switches offer their own unique advantages and are suitable for different typing experiences.
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