KTT Semi Mute vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the KTT Semi Mute 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 worth considering are the KTT Semi Mute and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring. The KTT Semi Mute is a linear switch that delivers a completely silent operation, making it ideal for those who require a noise-free environment. With its advanced dampening technology and linear actuation, this switch provides a comfortable and gratifying typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is a tactile switch that offers a medium-high level of tactility. Its unique two-staged spring guarantees a responsive and satisfying typing feel, accompanied by deep, resonating thocks for an immersive typing experience. While the Semi Mute prioritizes a noise-free environment, the Shadow (Ink) prioritizes tactility and a satisfying sound profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision on which switch suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
1.60 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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Semi Mute and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches are identical. Both switches feature polycarbonate top and bottom housings. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to its relatively stiffer plastic composition. This makes it ideal for those seeking a more clear and resonant sound when typing. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate material allows for RGB lighting to be effectively utilized in both switches. Therefore, users can expect similar results and sound profiles from both the KTT Semi Mute and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches when it comes to their top and bottom housings.
However, if the top and bottom housings were different for a switch, such as having a polycarbonate top housing and a different material for the bottom housing, the characteristics associated with each housing material would be divided. The bottom housing would have a greater impact on the sound and feel when pressing down a key, contributing to the bottom-out sound. Meanwhile, the top housing would play a more significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. This distinction highlights the importance of considering both top and bottom housing materials in determining the overall typing experience and sound profile of a switch.
In conclusion, the KTT Semi Mute and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches share the same polycarbonate material for both their top and bottom housings. This choice of housing material results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, providing a clear and resonant typing experience. The translucency of polycarbonate also allows for the effective utilization of RGB lighting. However, if the top and bottom housings were different, the impact of each material would be split between the bottom-out sound and the sound when releasing a key. Overall, understanding the housing materials used in switches is essential for tailoring the typing experience to individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Semi Mute linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, we find some similarities and differences. In terms of weight, the Semi Mute is the lighter option with an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is slightly heavier with an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams. Both switches fall into the medium force range, but the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring requires a slightly stronger push for actuation and bottoming out.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Semi Mute would be a suitable choice as its lower actuation and bottom out forces allow for longer periods of comfortable typing. This makes it ideal for tasks like office work or extended gaming sessions. However, for individuals who prefer a more substantial and pronounced typing feel, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring would be a better option. Its heavier actuation and bottom out forces provide a satisfying push and a tactile feedback that some typists prefer.
Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference and typing style. Whether one prefers a lighter or a heavier switch, both options offer medium force characteristics that can provide a satisfactory typing experience.
Travel distance
The KTT Semi Mute linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on either of these switches, you will feel and experience the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches will provide similar results. Both switches offer a comfortable and responsive typing experience with a consistent distance of travel, ensuring precise keystrokes. Whether you choose the KTT Semi Mute or the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, you can expect a satisfying tactile feel and optimal performance while typing or gaming.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Semi Mute has an MSRP of $3.97 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi Mute for $3.55.
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
When it comes to sound, the KTT Semi Mute switch is known for its muted qualities. These switches produce a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches. They are designed to minimize the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards, making them perfect for those who value a noise-free environment, especially during late-night typing sessions. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch has a clacky sound profile. It produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, which can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. If you prefer a more muted sound, the Semi Mute switch would be the better choice. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the KTT Semi Mute switch provides a buttery and mild typing experience. The keystroke is smooth, fluid, and effortless, offering a seamless and uniform typing sensation. These switches have a more gentle feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics, making them approachable to most users. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch has multiple descriptors for its tactile feel. It is sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped. These switches offer a high feedback intensity with a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be felt distinctly with each keypress. They provide a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. If you prefer a more mellow and buttery feel, the Semi Mute switch would be a better fit. If you enjoy a more pronounced and tactile typing experience, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch would be a good choice.
Considering all the available information, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch offer contrasting qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Semi Mute switch provides a muted and softer sound profile, making it ideal for those who want a noise-free environment. It offers a buttery and mild typing experience, providing a seamless and effortless feel. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch produces a clacky and sharper sound, which may be preferred by users who enjoy a more pronounced and tactile typing experience. It has various descriptors such as sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped, offering a high feedback intensity with strong tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preferences. If you prefer a quieter and smoother typing experience, go for the Semi Mute switch. If you enjoy a more tactile and snappy feel with a sharper sound, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch would be a suitable option.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you value a noise-free environment and desire undisturbed typing, especially during late-night sessions, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch would be the best choice for you. These switches provide a comfortable and gratifying typing feel with their linear actuation and advanced dampening technology. They have a medium bottom out force of 58 grams, making them suitable for most intents and purposes. The Semi Mute switches produce a softer and quieter sound, described as muted and neutral, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. They offer a buttery and mild typing experience, providing a seamless and effortless keystroke sensation.
On the other hand, if you are seeking a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch would be perfect for you. These switches feature a long, two-staged spring that provides a strong and crisp tactile bump, making the tactile feedback prominent and distinct with each keypress. With a medium bottom out force of 63 grams, these switches offer a sharp and accented typing experience. They produce a sharp and clacky sound, adding a crisp and bright element to your typing. If you prefer switches with a sharper and more lively feel, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches are the way to go.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Semi Mute and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches boils down to your preference for noise level and tactile feedback intensity. If you prioritize a noise-free environment and a smoother typing experience, the Semi Mute switches are the ideal option. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more tactile and lively typing experience with a sharper sound, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches would be the better choice. Consider your personal typing preferences and surroundings to make an informed decision.
Mentioned in this article
