Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring vs. KTT Vanilla Ice Cream
An in-depth look at the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a bouncy feel with a deep and thocky sound profile. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream is a linear switch known for its smooth and creamy feel, thanks to the ingenious use of POK in both the stem and bottom housing. The high-pitched and clacky sound signature of the Vanilla Ice Cream further sets it apart from the competition. 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
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary KTT blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POK
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel 18mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream, we can see that both switches prioritize offering a sharp, high-pitched sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top and bottom housings of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring contributes to a clear and resonant sound, particularly when combined with RGB lighting. Similarly, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream's proprietary blend top housing provides a high-pitched and clacky sound signature, showcasing the attention to sound quality in both switches.
While the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring utilizes polycarbonate for both top and bottom housings, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches it up with a blend of special mixed materials for its top housing and POK material for its bottom housing. The POK material in the Vanilla Ice Cream bottom housing offers exceptional durability, wear resistance, and shock resistance, leading to smooth, clacky, and long-lasting switches. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring contributes to a clearer sound profile, emphasizing the difference in material choices between the two switches.
Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream comes down to personal preference for sound characteristics and durability. Both switches offer unique qualities based on their housing materials, with the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring focusing on a stiffer plastic for a sharp and resonant sound, while the Vanilla Ice Cream prioritizes smoothness, clackiness, and durability with its POK bottom housing. Whether you prefer a crisper sound profile or a smoother feel, these housing materials play a significant role in shaping the overall typing experience of each switch.
Weight
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch. The Shadow (Ink) Single Spring requires 48 grams of force to actuate and 55 grams to bottom out, making it a medium-light switch. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch only needs 43 grams of force to actuate and 48 grams to bottom out, categorizing it as a light switch. Considering the weight of the switches, users who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Vanilla Ice Cream switch, which allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, those who prefer a stronger push feel may opt for the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has a longer travel distance compared to the Vanilla Ice Cream. The 4 mm travel distance on the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offers a bit more depth when pressing down on the key, which some users may prefer for a more satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the 3.5 mm travel distance on the Vanilla Ice Cream provides a slightly quicker response time, which can be beneficial for gamers or those who prefer a more responsive keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference in terms of travel distance and typing feel.
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 Vanilla Ice Cream has an MSRP of $5.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Vanilla Ice Cream for $4.60.
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 Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is known for its deep and thocky sound profile, providing a satisfying auditory experience for typists. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch offers a high-pitched and clacky sound signature that sets it apart from other switches. Both switches cater to different preferences in sound, with the Shadow switch offering a deeper tone while the Vanilla Ice Cream switch provides a sharper and more resonant sound.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is described as bouncy, offering a spring-like sensation when pressed. In contrast, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch is renowned for its buttery and creamy feel, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience reminiscent of its dessert namesake. Each switch delivers a unique tactile experience, with the Shadow switch offering lively feedback and the Vanilla Ice Cream switch providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation.
Considering all the available information, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch offer distinct qualities in both sound and feel. While the Shadow switch excels in providing a deep and thocky sound profile with a bouncy tactile feel, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch stands out for its high-pitched and clacky sound signature paired with a buttery and creamy typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the individual's preference for sound and tactile feedback, ensuring a personalized typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility and a deep, thocky sound profile, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and creamy feel with high-pitched and clacky sound signature, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal preference for key feel and sound. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing styles, so choose wisely based on what you prioritize in your typing experience.
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