Durock Black Lotus vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the Durock Black Lotus and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, there are a plethora of options available on the market. Two popular choices are the Durock Black Lotus, a linear switch, and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, a tactile switch. Both switches offer unique features and advantages, making them suitable for different preferences and typing styles. The Black Lotus is known for its silky smooth feel and unparalleled precision, thanks to reduced housing and stem wobble. With a medium actuation weight of 55g, these switches strike a balanced feel that is not too hefty. Additionally, their unique light column provides customizable in-switch lighting. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch by Aflion offers a medium level of tactility, making it appealing to those who prefer a tactile typing experience. With a lower actuation and bottom-out force, these switches provide approachable tactility without being overly pronounced. Moreover, they produce a deep and thocky sound, adding to the typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Black Lotus and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches differ in several ways. Firstly, the Black Lotus features a modified PC and UPE Blend top housing, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring utilizes a polycarbonate top housing. The modified PC and UPE Blend housing of the Black Lotus provides a unique and premium feel, whereas the polycarbonate top housing of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Furthermore, the use of a clear polycarbonate housing in the Shadow (Ink) switch allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects.
Secondly, the Black Lotus has a nylon bottom housing, which is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softness of the nylon material absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring features a polycarbonate bottom housing, contributing to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The relatively stiffer polycarbonate plastic enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced.
Despite these differences, the impact of the housing materials on the switch's performance can be observed based on the press and release actions of the key. When a key is pressed down, the qualities of the bottom housing become noticeable as it affects the bottom-out sound and feel. In contrast, the sound produced when releasing a key is influenced more by the top housing. Therefore, while the Black Lotus and Shadow (Ink) switches have distinct housing materials, their respective qualities still contribute to the overall typing experience in different ways.
In summary, the Durock Black Lotus and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches differ in their housing materials. The Black Lotus features a modified PC and UPE Blend top housing, providing a unique and premium feel, while the Shadow (Ink) utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound profile along with enhanced RGB lighting effects. In terms of the bottom housing, the Black Lotus incorporates nylon, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Shadow (Ink) utilizes polycarbonate, contributing to a sharper and clearer sound. Despite these differences, both switches' housing materials have an impact on the typing experience depending on the key press and release actions.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, there are notable differences to consider. The Black Lotus has an actuation force of 55 grams, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has an actuation force of 48 grams, making it lighter in this aspect. Both switches have medium heaviness for their bottom out force, with the Black Lotus measuring at 63.5 grams and the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring at 55 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch would be more suitable. With its lower actuation force, it requires less force to trigger a keystroke, allowing for faster and potentially longer typing sessions. On the other hand, the Black Lotus offers a more substantial typing experience with a slightly heavier actuation force, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a stronger push feel.
Considering weight is important when selecting switches as it can greatly impact typing comfort. Lighter switches are favored by individuals who require extended typing periods, such as for work or extended gaming sessions, as they reduce strain and fatigue. Conversely, those who appreciate a more pronounced tactile feedback and enjoy the sensation of pressing down with greater force may opt for switches with heavier forces.
In summary, the Durock Black Lotus and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches differ in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Black Lotus has a slightly higher actuation force and bottom out force, providing a stronger push feel, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is lighter in both aspects, resulting in a more effortless typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences and the desired typing sensation.
Travel distance
The Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of their travel distance, they offer the same experience to the user. When pressing down on the keys, both switches will travel the exact distance of 4 mm from the top to the bottom. This means that whether you choose the Black Lotus or the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, you can expect similar results in terms of the travel distance of the switches. Neither one is shorter or longer than the other, as they both share the same 4 mm travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Black Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Black Lotus for $4.57.
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.
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 Black Lotus is known for its quiet operation, with a lack of specific descriptors provided. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is described as having a deep and thocky sound profile. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is influenced not only by the switch itself, but also by factors such as the keyboard you are using and the keycaps attached.
When it comes to feel, the Black Lotus is often described as silky, buttery, mild, and polished. These terms indicate that it offers an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimized resistance and a sleek finish. The Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, on the other hand, is characterized as bouncy, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation with lively keypress rebounds.
Considering the available information, it is clear that the Black Lotus and the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches offer different qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Black Lotus is known for its smoothness and refined typing experience, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring provides a bouncier feel and a deeper, thocky sound. Depending on your personal preferences, one switch may be more suitable for you than the other.
If you are seeking a switch with similar characteristics to the Black Lotus, the closest option would be to choose a tactile switch that is known for its smoothness and refined feel. Although exact comparisons cannot be made based on provided information, switches like Zealios or Holy Pandas could potentially provide a similar typing experience.
In conclusion, the Black Lotus and the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches have distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Black Lotus offers a smooth and polished typing experience with a quiet operation, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring provides a bouncier feel and a deeper, thocky sound. Considering personal preferences and desired typing experience, one can select the switch that best aligns with their preferences and requirements.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and unparalleled precision, then the Durock Black Lotus linear switch is the perfect choice for you. With its silky smooth feel and minimized wobble, typing on these switches will be a pleasure. Additionally, the unique light column adds a touch of style to your keyboard setup. On the other hand, if you are in search of a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility and a lower actuation and bottom-out force, then the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is highly recommended. These switches offer a very approachable tactility and a deep, thocky sound profile. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches largely depends on personal preference, with the Black Lotus offering a smooth and precise typing experience, and the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring providing a tactile and bouncy feel.
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