KTT Hyacinth vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the KTT Hyacinth and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Hyacinth and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique features and experiences. The Hyacinth stands out for its design choice of a 3.5mm travel distance, aiming to avoid the common issue of hard bottoming-out experienced with switches with longer stems. This decision demonstrates the Hyacinth's commitment to providing an ideal balance between tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort. Unlike most switches, the Hyacinth uses a single-stage elongated spring, resulting in a more consistent force curve. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offers a medium-high level of tactility with its long, two-staged spring. Typing on these Shadow switches provides deep, resonating thocks that enhance the typing experience. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is known for its clacky, high-pitched, sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped attributes. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
56g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Hyacinth and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring are quite similar. Both switches utilize a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiff plastic, creating a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it particularly useful for switches that make use of RGB lighting. Hence, both the Hyacinth and Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches can deliver similar results in terms of sound profile and aesthetics.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the two switches differ in material. The Hyacinth employs a nylon bottom housing, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring uses a polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile in switches. It is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, polycarbonate, being a relatively stiffer plastic, contributes to a sharper and more resonant sound. Therefore, the bottom housing of the Hyacinth and the top housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing of the Hyacinth and the bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring will have a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key.
In summary, the KTT Hyacinth and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring share a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in similar sound profiles and compatibility with RGB lighting. However, they differ in their bottom housing materials, with the Hyacinth utilizing nylon for a deeper and fuller sound, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring uses polycarbonate for a sharper and crisper sound. The specific housing materials of each switch will affect the bottom-out sound and feel or the sound when releasing a key.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, there are notable differences. The Hyacinth has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Hyacinth requires 56 grams of force, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring requires 63 grams, both falling within the medium range. Therefore, despite the differences in actuation force, the bottom out force for both switches results in a similar typing experience. For those who prefer a lighter typing feel and want to type for longer periods, the Hyacinth would be a suitable choice. Alternatively, individuals who prefer a stronger push and desire a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring.
Travel distance
The KTT Hyacinth linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Hyacinth is the shorter option. The 3.5 mm travel distance of the Hyacinth falls on the shorter end of the spectrum, making it a favorite among gamers who prioritize faster response times. On the other hand, the 4 mm travel distance of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offers a bit more depth, which some individuals may find preferable. Choosing between the two switches ultimately depends on personal preference and whether one values a shorter, snappier feel or a slightly longer and more substantial key press. Both switches offer their own unique tactile experiences, but the Hyacinth provides a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Hyacinth has an MSRP of $4.03 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hyacinth for $3.75.
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
In terms of sound, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch has a neutral sound profile. This means it produces a moderate and versatile sound that is suitable for most situations, whether you are a beginner or advanced user and whether you are using it at home or work. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch has a clacky sound profile, which is characterized by sharp and snappy sounds when pressed. Additionally, it has a high-pitched sound, providing a sharp and crisp sound experience. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, if you prefer a neutral sound, the Hyacinth would be a suitable choice, while if you enjoy a clacky and high-pitched sound, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring would be a better fit.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch is described as silky. This means it offers an exceptionally smooth typing experience, enhancing the overall smoothness of the keypress and minimizing resistance. It also has a subtle feel, meaning it has a gentle resistance that still maintains a light typing feel. Additionally, the sound signature of the Hyacinth is not resonant, making it suitable for shared spaces. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch has several descriptors that contribute to its overall feel. It is sharp, providing a high feedback intensity with a prominent and distinct tactile bump. It is also accented, meaning it offers a medium level of tactility that is not overwhelming but still noticeable. Moreover, it is snappy, offering a super responsive typing experience. Lastly, it is bouncy, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, giving the keys a lively feel. Some users may also notice a stepped feel, which means it has a mild pre-travel or post-travel compared to switches with a continuous bump. If you prefer a silky and subtle feel, the Hyacinth would be a good choice, while if you're looking for sharp and bouncy feedback, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring would be more suitable.
In conclusion, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Hyacinth has a neutral sound profile and offers a smooth and subtle typing experience. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, with a sharp and bouncy tactile feel. Both switches have their own unique characteristics, so choosing between them will depend on personal preferences. However, if you prefer a neutral and silky typing experience, similar to the Hyacinth, you can select certain sound-dampening solutions or modify the Switch sound with lubing and band-aid mod to achieve a result closer to the Hyacinth's sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium-light bottom out force, the KTT Hyacinth is a great option. It stands out with its 3.5mm travel distance, which helps avoid a hard bottoming-out experience. The Hyacinth also offers a consistent force curve with its single-stage elongated spring. In terms of sound, it has a neutral profile that suits most intents and purposes. As for feel, the Hyacinth provides a silky and subtle typing experience, enhancing smoothness and minimizing resistance. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium bottom out force, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is a fantastic choice. It offers a high level of tactility with its long, two-staged spring, resulting in a sharp and crisp tactile bump. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring produces deep, resonating thocks when typing. It has a clacky and high-pitched sound profile. In terms of feel, it can be described as sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, or stepped, depending on your preference. Ultimately, the choice between the Hyacinth and the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring boils down to your desired level of tactility and preferred sound and feel.
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