Kailh Berry vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the Kailh Berry and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two options that stand out are the Kailh Berry, a linear switch, and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, a tactile switch. The Berry switches are renowned for their hefty typing experience, characterized by a springy feel and a chalk-like texture. The sound they produce is notably deep, giving off a textured, low-pitched, and bassy profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch, the Shadow Single Spring is an excellent choice. Offering a medium level of tactility, these switches provide a pleasantly approachable typing experience. With a lower actuation and bottom-out force, they allow for a satisfying feedback while typing. Additionally, they produce a deep and thocky sound, contributing to a bouncy profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Berry and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring both feature polycarbonate top housing. This material leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for stunning RGB lighting effects. Thus, users can expect similar sound and visual experiences when using either switch with RGB lighting.
However, the housing materials differ in the bottom housings. The Berry utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring uses a polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is known to create a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. In contrast, polycarbonate's relatively stiffer plastic produces a more clear and resonant sound. This means that when pressing down on the switch, the Berry's nylon bottom housing will contribute to the bottom-out sound and feel, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's polycarbonate bottom housing will affect the same qualities.
The distinction between their bottom housings highlights a potential difference in the typing experience between the Kailh Berry and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring. The Berry's nylon bottom housing may result in a slightly duller and rounder sound, whereas the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's polycarbonate bottom housing will offer a crisper and higher-pitched sound. The choice between the two may ultimately depend on the user's preference for a particular sound profile during typing. Nonetheless, both switches share the advantage of incorporating polycarbonate in their top housings for enhanced sound and aesthetics when RGB lighting is utilized.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, it is evident that there are differences in weight. The actuation force of the Berry switch is not available, while the Shadow switch has an actuation force of 48 grams. This means that the Shadow switch requires a lighter touch to trigger a keystroke compared to the Berry switch.
In terms of bottom out force, the Berry switch has a heavier weight with a bottom out force of 70 grams, which can provide a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Shadow switch has a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing feel.
Considering weight is essential as it can greatly impact typing comfort and user preference. Some individuals may prefer a lighter switch like the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring to allow for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. This is especially useful for work or extended gaming sessions. In contrast, those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile experience may prefer the heavier actuation force and bottom out force of the Berry switch.
While the actuation force of the Berry switch remains unknown, it is clear that the weight disparity between the two switches offers users distinct options depending on their preferences. Whether one seeks a lighter or heavier typing experience, both switches provide suitable choices.
Travel distance
The Kailh Berry linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch have different travel distances. The Berry has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Berry switch.
In terms of preference, the travel distance can greatly impact the typing or gaming experience. A travel distance of 4.0mm is considered the most traditional, providing a balanced depth for typing. On the other hand, a shallower travel distance of 3.0mm is preferred for gamers seeking faster response times. In this case, the Kailh Berry linear switch with its shorter travel distance might be the better option.
However, it is important to note that shorter travel distances can feel too abrupt for some individuals who prefer a deeper typing experience. If you enjoy a more substantial feel while typing or gaming, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring with its longer travel distance would be the suitable choice.
Ultimately, determining the ideal travel distance comes down to personal preference. Both switches offer their own benefits and drawbacks, and understanding your typing or gaming needs will help you decide between the shorter travel distance of the Kailh Berry or the longer travel distance of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring.
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 Kailh Berry comes in at $6.25 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 Kailh Berry linear switch is best known for its hefty and springy typing experience. The switch has a chalk-like texture when typing, giving it a unique feel. In terms of sound, the Berry switch has a fairly deep profile, which can be characterized as low-pitched and bassy. This results in a more mellow and rich sound compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch provides a medium level of tactility. It has a lower actuation and bottom-out force, making it approachable for users who prefer a tactile switch. The Shadow switch also features a deep and thocky sound profile. However, specific details about the sound profile of the Shadow switch are not mentioned, so a direct comparison cannot be made in this aspect.
In terms of feel, the Berry switch is described as textured or scratchy. This means that when pressed, the switch has noticeable friction, which can be preferred by some users but not by others who prefer a smoother and friction-free typing experience. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation. The keys feel lively and offer rebound when pressed.
Based on the information provided, the Berry and Shadow switches have distinct qualities in terms of feel and sound. While the Berry switch offers a springy and textured feel with a deep sound profile, the Shadow switch provides a medium level of tactility and a bouncy feel with a deep and thocky sound profile. However, since the specific sound profile of the Shadow switch is unknown, it is difficult to make a direct comparison in terms of sound. Overall, it is important to consider personal preferences when choosing between these switches to ensure a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, if you prefer a medium-heavy typing experience with a springy feel and a deep sound profile, the Kailh Berry linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility, a lower actuation and bottom-out force, and a deep and thocky sound profile, then the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch would be the better option.
When it comes to sound, the Berry switch is characterized as low-pitched and bassy, providing a more mellow and rich tone during key presses. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is not specified.
In terms of feel, the Berry switch is textured, giving it noticeable friction when pressed. Some users prefer this tactile feedback, while others prefer a smoother typing experience. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation that offers a lively feel and rebound when pressed.
Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your personal preferences. If you prioritize a heavier typing experience with a textured feel and a deep sound profile, go for the Kailh Berry linear switch. If you prefer a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility, a lighter feel, and a deep and thocky sound profile, then the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch would be the better option for you. Consider your typing style, preferences, and desired sound and feel when making your decision.
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