Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring vs. KTT Wine Red
An in-depth look at the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the KTT Wine Red 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, then the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is a fantastic option to consider. This particular variant of the Shadow switch features a long, two-staged spring that provides a medium-high level of tactility. Typing on these switches elicits deep, resonating thocks, giving a unique satisfaction to each keypress. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother typing experience with a focus on a light and pillowy feel, the KTT Wine Red may be the switch for you. These intoxicating switches offer a delightful combination of a light touch and a deep, rich sound profile. While the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is known for its clacky, high-pitched, sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped characteristics, the Wine Red switch falls in the contrasting category of being bassy and low-pitched. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
44g
Bottom-out force
63g
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
No
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the KTT Wine Red switches are both made of polycarbonate, which results in similar qualities for both switches. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in keyboard switches. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, which contributes to a more clear and resonant sound experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the use of RGB lighting, making it an advantageous choice for those who want to incorporate colorful lighting effects into their keyboards.
Although the top and bottom housings of each switch are made of polycarbonate, it is important to note that the qualities of each housing material will be split between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing will have a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while both switches benefit from the sound-enhancing properties of polycarbonate, the distribution of these qualities may vary based on the specific design and construction of each switch.
In terms of aesthetics, both the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the KTT Wine Red switches share the same visual appeal due to their translucent polycarbonate housing. This transparency allows for an attractive display of the internal components, giving the switches a sleek and modern look. Whether it's the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring or the KTT Wine Red, users can enjoy the mesmerizing effects of RGB lighting, thanks to the polycarbonate top housing. So, while the two switches may have minor differences in their overall design and feel, they both offer a visually striking and vibrant keyboard experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, it is evident that they have different force requirements. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has a slightly higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Wine Red's 44 grams, making it slightly heavier to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring requires 63 grams of force while the Wine Red requires 55 grams. This means that the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is both heavier to activate and bottom out compared to the Wine Red switch.
The weight of a switch is an important factor to consider depending on one's preferences and usage scenarios. Those who prefer lighter switches may opt for the Wine Red as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out. This can be advantageous for individuals who engage in longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions, as it reduces finger fatigue over time. On the other hand, some individuals may prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience. For them, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch with its slightly higher actuation and bottom out force may be a better choice.
Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preferences and typing style. While the actuation force and bottom out force differ between the two switches, both still fall within the medium to medium-light range. Hence, individuals seeking similar results in terms of force requirement may find that both switches offer satisfactory typing experiences.
Travel distance
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the KTT Wine Red switches both have a travel distance of 4 mm, meaning they both travel 4 mm from the top to the bottom. This ensures a consistent and satisfying keystroke experience for users of both switches. Whether you choose the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring or the Wine Red, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance.
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 Wine Red comes in at $2.71 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 tactile switch is best known for its medium-high level of tactility, making it a great choice for those seeking a tactile switch with a noticeable bump. Typing on these switches generates deep, resonating thocks, which produce a sharp and snappy sound. The high-pitched nature of the Shadow switches adds a crisp and bright quality to the sound profile. In terms of feel, these switches are sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and have a stepped sensation. This means that users will experience a strong and crisp tactile bump that is not overwhelming, providing a satisfying feedback intensity. The typing experience feels more alive due to the longer or dual-staged springs, and the keys have a lively rebound when pressed. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red linear switch is known for its pillowy light type feel and provides a deep and rich sound profile. While specific descriptors for the feel of the Wine Red switch are unknown, it offers a satisfying feedback without a tactile bump. The sound profile is bassy and low-pitched, offering a more mellow and rich tone. It's important to note that the sound and feel of switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In conclusion, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch and KTT Wine Red linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Shadow switch provides a sharp and snappy sound with a clacky and high-pitched profile, while the Wine Red switch offers a deep and rich sound with a bassy and low-pitched profile. In terms of feel, the Shadow switch offers a medium-high level of tactility with sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped sensations, providing a prominent, crisp tactile bump and a lively rebound when pressed. The Wine Red switch, while lacking specific descriptors, offers a pillowy light type feel without a tactile bump. If you are looking for a switch with similar results, you can expect a satisfying sound and feel profile from the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and Wine Red switches, respectively. However, it's important to consider individual preferences and factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps to fully customize the typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are seeking a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility and enjoy deep, resonating thocks when typing, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a pillowy light typing feel with a satisfyingly deep and rich sound profile, the KTT Wine Red switch is the way to go. As for sound, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring produces a clacky and high-pitched sound, while the Wine Red offers a bassy and low-pitched tone. In terms of feel, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring provides a sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped tactile experience, while the details of the Wine Red's feel are not described. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches boils down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for.
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