Dareu Aqua vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch offer unique features to cater to different preferences. The Aqua stands out for its super light 37g actuation force, providing a chirpy and clacky sound signature that appeals to those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offers a medium-high level of tactility with its two-staged spring design, resulting in deep and resonating thocks while typing. The Aqua switch is characterized as easy-to-press and feathery, while the Shadow switch is known for its clacky, sharp, and snappy feel. 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
37g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Aqua and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, where they differ is in their bottom housing materials. The Aqua has a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Shadow's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
In terms of aesthetics and sound characteristics, the top housing has a significant impact on the sound when letting go of a key, while the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a switch. Both the Aqua and the Shadow offer a balance of qualities with their housing materials - the stiffness of polycarbonate in the top housing enhances the sound clarity, while the softer nylon in the Aqua's bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller typing sound. On the other hand, the Shadow's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains consistency with its top housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper overall sound profile.
In conclusion, while the Dareu Aqua and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring share similarities in their polycarbonate top housings that contribute to a sharp and clear sound profile, they differ in their bottom housing materials. The Aqua's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller typing experience, whereas the Shadow's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains consistency with its top housing for a sharper sound overall. Depending on personal preferences for sound profiles and typing experiences, users can choose between the two switches based on their housing material qualities.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, we see that the Aqua has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's heavier actuation force of 55 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Aqua's force is unknown while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has a medium bottom out force of 63 grams. Those who prefer a lighter actuation force may lean towards the Dareu Aqua for a smoother typing experience that requires less force to trigger a keystroke. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring with its heavier actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing comfort and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. This similarity in travel distance ensures that users will get consistent feedback and feel when typing on keyboards equipped with these switches. Overall, both switches offer a comfortable and responsive typing experience due to their identical travel distances.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Aqua has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aqua for $3.76.
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 Dareu Aqua linear switch offers a unique combination of chirpy and clacky tones, providing a distinctive auditory experience that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch produces deep and resonating thocks, creating a more substantial sound profile that resonates with each keystroke. While the Aqua switch leans towards a lighter and more distinct sound, the Shadow switch delivers a richer and more bassy auditory experience. Both switches offer different sound qualities that cater to varying preferences, ensuring that users can find the perfect match for their desired typing sound.
When it comes to feel, the Dareu Aqua switch boasts an easy-to-press and feathery typing experience with minimal force required for activation, enhancing typing comfort and reducing finger fatigue during extended use. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch provides a sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped tactile feedback, offering a tactile bump that is pronounced and distinct with each keystroke. The Shadow switch delivers a more intense tactile experience compared to the lighter touch of the Aqua switch, catering to users who prefer a more tactile typing feel. Both switches offer unique tactile sensations that cater to different preferences, ensuring a personalized typing experience for users.
In conclusion, the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Aqua switch provides a chirpy and clacky sound signature with an easy-to-press and feathery feel, ideal for users seeking a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Shadow switch delivers deep thocks with a sharp and pronounced tactile feedback, catering to users looking for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, ensuring that users can find the perfect match for their mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, consider the following guidelines based on your preferences. Choose the Aqua if you prefer a super light actuation force and a unique chirpy and clacky sound profile, along with an easy-to-press and feathery feel that reduces finger fatigue during typing. On the other hand, opt for the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring if you prefer a medium-high level of tactility with deep thock sounds. The Shadow switch provides a sharp and crisp tactile bump, along with a mix of sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped feel options to enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, your choice will come down to whether you prefer a lighter touch and sound or a medium-high level of tactility and sound depth in your mechanical keyboard switches.
Mentioned in this article
