Durock Black Lotus vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there's a wide variety to choose from, each offering a unique typing experience. Two switches that stand out are the Durock Black Lotus, a linear switch, and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, a tactile switch. The Black Lotus is praised for its silky smooth feel and unmatched precision, with reduced wobble for a pleasurable typing experience. With a 55g actuation weight, it provides a substantial but not overly hefty key press. Additionally, the unique removable light column adds an aesthetic touch to your typing setup. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offers a medium-high level of tactility, perfect for those who prefer a more noticeable feedback. The long, two-staged spring in these switches produces deep, resonating thocks that enhance the typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.

By the numbers

Durock Black Lotus Linear

Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring Tactile

$5.60

$4.57 per 10

$4.50

$3.57 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Durock Black Lotus and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches differ in their composition. The Black Lotus features a modified PC and UPE blend top housing, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring uses a polycarbonate top housing. The modified PC and UPE blend of the Black Lotus provides a unique and premium feel to the switch, while the use of polycarbonate in the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Both materials have their advantages, with the modified PC and UPE blend offering a distinctive tactile experience and the polycarbonate delivering an excellent sound profile.

The bottom housings of the Black Lotus and Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches also differ in material. The Black Lotus utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing. Similar to its impact on the top housing, polycarbonate in the bottom housing contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The material stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the switch's sound.

While the top and bottom housing materials of the two switches vary, their impact on the overall typing experience is noteworthy. The Black Lotus's bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, providing a deep and full sound upon keypress. On the other hand, the top housing plays a significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. In the case of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, the polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to the sharp and crisp sound during bottom-out, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Despite the differences in material, both switches offer unique and desirable sound profiles based on their respective housing materials.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, we can see some similarities and differences. Both switches have an actuation force of 55 grams, which means that the force required to trigger a keystroke is the same for both switches. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of the initial push required to register a keypress.

However, when it comes to the bottom out force, there is a distinction. The Black Lotus has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which is slightly heavier than the actuation force. This means that users will experience a more substantial typing experience as they press the keys all the way down. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch has a bottom out force of 63 grams, which is almost the same as its actuation force. This suggests that the typing experience might be more consistent and less variable in terms of the force required throughout the keystroke.

Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing between these switches. Some prefer a lighter switch like the Black Lotus, as it allows for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces make it suitable for extended use, whether for work or gaming. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch, with its slightly heavier bottom out force, might provide a more substantial and satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel.

In summary, the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch have identical actuation forces, but differ in their bottom out forces. The Black Lotus is slightly heavier, providing a more substantial typing experience, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offers a more consistent force throughout the keystroke. The choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preference and whether a lighter or heavier typing experience is desired.

Travel distance

The travel distance of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch is exactly the same, both measuring 4 mm. This means that both switches have an equal distance that they travel from the top to the bottom when pressed. Therefore, users can expect similar results and experiences in terms of the tactile feedback and actuation of these switches, as their travel distance remains consistent. Whether it is the Black Lotus or the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, the travel distance will not vary, providing a consistent typing or gaming experience for users.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Black Lotus switch does not have a specific descriptor provided, so its sound characteristics are unknown based on the available information. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is described as clacky and high-pitched. This means that when pressed, the Shadow switch produces a sharp and snappy sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive. If you prefer a more rich and bassy sound profile, the Shadow switch may not be the best choice. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the Black Lotus switch is described as silky, buttery, mild, and polished. Silky switches offer an exceptionally smooth typing experience, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The buttery feel implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. The mild characteristic indicates that the switch offers a gentle typing experience, standing in a safe middle-ground zone that is approachable to most users. Lastly, the polished attribute suggests that the switch has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.

In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is described as sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped. The sharp tactile bump of the Shadow switch is prominent and provides high feedback intensity with distinct tactile feedback with each keypress. The accented attribute indicates that this switch offers a noticeable amount of tactility that is not overwhelming nor subtle. Snappy switches are highly responsive due to longer or dual-staged springs, which gives the typing experience a lively feel. Bouncy switches provide a spring-like feedback sensation, giving rebound when keys are pressed. Stepped switches, in comparison to hypertactile switches, offer a less pronounced tactile bump with some pre-travel and/or post-travel.

To conclude, based on the available information, the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch have different sound and feel characteristics. The Black Lotus switch provides a silky smooth feel with a refined finish, although its sound qualities are unknown. On the other hand, the Shadow switch offers a sharp and clacky sound, with a medium-high level of tactility combined with various tactile attributes. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and typing feel. However, if you are seeking similar results, the Black Lotus switch with its smooth feel may give a typing experience comparable to the Shadow switch's accented and stepped characteristics.

Conclusion

To wrap up, if you prioritize a smooth typing experience with minimal resistance, the Durock Black Lotus linear switch would be your ideal choice. Its silky and buttery feel, along with reduced housing and stem wobble, ensures an effortless and uniform typing sensation. Additionally, the Black Lotus offers a unique light column for in-switch lighting, adding a touch of customization to your keyboard.

On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is the perfect option. With its long, two-staged spring, you can expect a sharp, accented, and snappy tactile feedback with each keypress. Furthermore, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch produces deep and resonating thocks, adding a satisfying sound profile to your typing experience.

Ultimately, your choice between the two switches comes down to your preference for linear or tactile switches, as well as the desired level of tactility and typing feel. Consider your typing style, whether you prioritize smoothness or feedback, and the sound profile that appeals to you the most. By carefully weighing these factors, you can select the switch that suits your needs and enhances your typing pleasure.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Black Lotus Linear

$5.60

$4.57 per 10

Learn more

Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring Tactile

$4.50

$3.57 per 10

Learn more