Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the KTT Strawberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you are in the market for a mechanical keyboard switch with a tactile feel, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is definitely worth considering. It offers a medium level of tactility, making it suitable for both typing and gaming. With a lower actuation and bottom-out force, the Shadow switch provides a comfortable and approachable tactile experience. Furthermore, it produces a deep and thocky sound profile that adds to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, if you prioritize smooth and frictionless actuation, the KTT Strawberry switch is an excellent choice. These attractive switches feature pink and clear housings that add a touch of aesthetic flair to any keyboard. They are known for their smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance. With a low-pitched sound and a buttery-smooth operation, the Strawberry switch offers a polished typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
48g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
55g
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 single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the KTT Strawberry have similar housing materials, as both have polycarbonate top and bottom housings. The use of polycarbonate in both switches creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to the relative stiffness of polycarbonate plastic, which results in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar sound profiles and aesthetics from the top and bottom housings of both switches.
However, the differences in the top and bottom housings of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the KTT Strawberry allow for some variation in their overall performance. The bottom housing of a switch has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. This means that although they share the same polycarbonate material, the specific design and construction of the housings may lead to subtle differences in the tactile feedback and sound produced by each switch. Users may notice variations in the typing experience depending on which switch they choose.
Overall, the housing materials of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the KTT Strawberry contribute to their similar sound profiles and aesthetic compatibility with RGB lighting. However, the specific design and construction of their top and bottom housings may result in subtle differences in their performance. Ultimately, it would be beneficial for individuals to try out both switches and determine which one aligns better with their personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Aflion Shadow has a slightly lighter actuation force of 48 grams, while the Strawberry requires 43 grams to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Aflion Shadow has a bottom out force of 55 grams, while the Strawberry has a slightly higher bottom out force of 62 grams. Therefore, the Aflion Shadow can be considered lighter in terms of actuation force, while the Strawberry is heavier in terms of bottom out force.
Considering weight, some individuals may prefer a lighter switch like the Aflion Shadow, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. This makes it ideal for those who use their keyboard extensively at work or engage in long gaming sessions. On the other hand, those looking for a more substantial typing experience might opt for the Strawberry, with its heavier bottom out force. This provides them with a stronger push feel, resulting in a more satisfying typing experience.
In terms of similarities, both switches fall within the medium category, and their actuation and bottom out forces are relatively close. Therefore, individuals who prefer a similar level of resistance and feel but with slight variations in weight could find similar results with both the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch. Overall, the choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preference and individual typing style.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch is the distance it travels from the top to the bottom when pressed. In the case of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, both switches have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel a similar distance of travel. Both switches offer a consistent and satisfying typing experience, providing a comfortable key press with a similar amount of travel. Therefore, both switches can be considered equal in terms of travel distance.
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 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
In terms of sound, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is known for its deep and thocky sound profile. This means that when you press the keys, you can expect a satisfying and deep sound that is reminiscent of a mechanical keyboard. On the other hand, the Strawberry switch is described as low-pitched, which means it will have a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used. Therefore, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch has a specific sound profile, the Strawberry switch may result in similar low-pitched tones when used in different setups.
When it comes to feel, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is described as bouncy. This means that the keys have a lively feel and provide a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation. When you press on these keys, you can expect them to offer rebound and a more energetic typing experience. On the other hand, the Strawberry switch is known for its frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished feel. This means that the keys will offer an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction when pressing the keys. The switch's fluid travel and polished finish contribute to a sleek and refined typing experience. While the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch offers a bouncy feel, the Strawberry switch will provide a smoother and more refined typing sensation.
In conclusion, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch and KTT Strawberry linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities. The Shadow switch provides a deep and thocky sound profile, along with a bouncy feel that offers a more energetic typing experience. On the other hand, the Strawberry switch offers a low-pitched sound and a smoother, frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished feel for a more refined typing sensation. Depending on your preferences, you can choose between these two switches to achieve different sound and feel outcomes. However, keep in mind that the actual experience may vary depending on factors such as your choice of keyboard and keycaps.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility, we highly recommend the single spring variant of Aflion's Shadow switch. With its lower actuation and bottom-out force, you will find a very approachable tactility when using them. Additionally, the Shadow switch offers a deep and thocky sound profile, perfect for those who enjoy a satisfying sound while typing. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and effortless typing experience, the KTT Strawberry linear switch is the way to go. With its frictionless and silky feel, the Strawberry switch provides an exceptionally smooth and fluid typing sensation. It also offers reliable performance and a low-pitched sound, which adds to the overall pleasant experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the KTT Strawberry switch depends on your preference for tactility and typing feel. Both switches have their own unique characteristics, so make sure to consider what factors are most important to you when making your decision.
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