Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the KTT Strawberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you are in search of a mechanical keyboard switch that offers a satisfying tactile experience, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch may be the perfect choice for you. With its medium-high level of tactility and the added advantage of a long, two-staged spring, this switch excels in providing a satisfying feedback while typing. Not only that, but the Shadow switch variant also produces deep, resonating thocks, adding an extra touch of auditory pleasure to your typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and more fluid typing feel, the KTT Strawberry switch could be the ideal option. These delectable Strawberries feature attractive pink and clear housings and are well-loved for their smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance. They have been categorized as having a 'Low-pitched', 'Frictionless', 'Silky', 'Buttery', and 'Polished' characteristics. Both switches have their own unique advantages and offer different typing experiences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
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
20mm dual-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the KTT Strawberry both use polycarbonate for their top and bottom housings. This material choice in both switches allows for a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate is particularly beneficial for those who plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows for a visually appealing illumination effect. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics from both the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Strawberry switches.
However, it is worth noting that if the top and bottom housings differ in a switch, the qualities brought by each housing material will be split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing will have a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed down. On the other hand, the top housing will play a larger role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, while both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top and bottom housings, the specific arrangement and design of these components may result in slight variations in their overall performance.
In terms of sound and resonance, both the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the KTT Strawberry benefit from the relatively stiffer plastic nature of polycarbonate. This stiffness contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate in clear housings is a common choice, making it a recognizable feature in both switches. This further emphasizes the similarity between the two switches in terms of aesthetics and functionality.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, there are both similarities and differences to note. In terms of actuation force, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring requires 55 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, while the Strawberry requires a slightly lighter 43 grams. Both switches fall within the medium force range, offering a decent amount of resistance for typing.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring requires 63 grams of force to fully press down the key, while the Strawberry requires 62 grams. Here, we can see that the difference in force is minimal, with both switches providing a similar typing experience when it comes to bottoming out.
In terms of weight, the information provided does not mention the actual weight of the switches. However, it is worth considering that a lighter switch allows for longer typing sessions, making it suitable for those who require extended use, such as when using a keyboard at work or engaging in long gaming sessions. On the other hand, some users prefer a heavier actuation force for a more substantial typing experience.
Overall, the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and KTT Strawberry switches differ slightly, with the Shadow (Ink) requiring a higher force for actuation, but the Strawberry requiring a slightly lighter force. Both switches fall within the medium force range and offer a similar experience when fully pressing down the keys. The choice between the two will ultimately depend on whether the user prefers a slightly lighter or heavier actuation force for their typing needs.
Travel distance
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will feel the same distance of travel. Therefore, both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of the distance you feel when pressing down on the keys.
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 Strawberry comes in at $4.91 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
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offers a clacky sound profile, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This sound can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry switch provides a low-pitched sound, which is more bass-heavy and mellow compared to higher-pitched switches. 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.
When it comes to feel, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offers several descriptors. It is described as sharp, providing a high feedback intensity with a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be distinctly felt with each keypress. Additionally, it is considered accented, meaning it provides a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. The switch is also snappy, thanks to its longer or dual-staged springs, which enhances the typing experience. Lastly, the Shadow switch variant is described as stepped, offering a mild tactile sensation with some pre-travel and/or post-travel.
On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry switch is known for its frictionless feel, providing an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance. It is also described as silky, offering exceptional smoothness when pressing and releasing keys. Additionally, it is considered buttery, providing a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. The switch is polished, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel, potentially due to materials used or factory lubing.
Considering the available information, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offers a clacky sound and a sharp, accented, snappy, and stepped feel. In contrast, the KTT Strawberry switch provides a low-pitched sound and a frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished feel. Based on these qualities, it is clear that the Shadow switch is more tactile and offers a distinct feedback intensity, while the Strawberry switch prioritizes smoothness and effortless typing. If you are looking for a similar sound and feel, considering the information given, you can expect a similar result from the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are seeking a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility and enjoy the deep, resonating thocks when typing, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and comfortable typing experience with reliable performance, the KTT Strawberry linear switch is the way to go.
In terms of sound, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. If you prefer a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, the Strawberry switch with its low-pitched sound profile would suit your preference.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offers a sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped tactile experience. The prominent tactile bump and responsiveness of this switch provide an intense feedback sensation. On the other hand, the Strawberry switch provides a frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished typing experience, with smooth and effortless key presses.
Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch depends on your preference for tactility and sound. If you enjoy a highly tactile switch with a clacky and high-pitched sound, go for the Shadow switch. If you prioritize a smooth and comfortable typing experience with a low-pitched sound, the Strawberry switch is the better option. Consider your personal preferences and typing style to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Mentioned in this article
