HMX Blue Topaz vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Blue Topaz and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring stand out for different reasons. The Blue Topaz, a linear switch, offers a smooth actuation and lightweight feel, making typing effortless and enjoyable. With its distinctive glitter housing and clacky sound signature, it appeals to users who appreciate both visual and auditory elements. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, a tactile switch, provides a medium level of tactility with a lower actuation and bottom-out force. This switch offers a bouncy feel and produces a deep and thocky sound profile, adding a satisfying tactile experience to typing. Choosing between these switches ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style; 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
40g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
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 single-stage spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. Polycarbonate is known to create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This material is especially ideal for switches with RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for the illumination to shine through. However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Blue Topaz features nylon while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring uses polycarbonate. Nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile, whereas polycarbonate leads to a clearer and more resonant sound.
While the top housings of both switches are made of polycarbonate, the difference lies in the bottom housing material. The split between nylon and polycarbonate in the Blue Topaz and Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, respectively, impacts the overall sound and feel of the switch. The qualities of each material are evident when pressing down on the switch, as the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing plays a significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. This distinction highlights how the choice of housing material can affect the user experience and typing feel of a mechanical keyboard switch.
In conclusion, while both the HMX Blue Topaz and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring feature polycarbonate top housings, the difference in bottom housing material results in varying sound profiles. The Blue Topaz's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, whereas the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's polycarbonate bottom housing leads to a clearer and more resonant sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing experience, as each housing material brings its unique qualities to the overall performance of the switch.
Weight
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch is lighter in both actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch. The Blue Topaz has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that the Blue Topaz will provide a lighter and more effortless typing experience, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring will offer a slightly more substantial feel with a bit more resistance. Both switches can cater to different preferences, with the Blue Topaz being suitable for longer typing sessions and the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offering a more tactile and responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on whether a lighter or slightly heavier typing experience is desired.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch is 3.9 mm, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Shadow (Ink) switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Blue Topaz. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Blue Topaz being slightly shallower. Gamers looking for a faster response time may prefer the Blue Topaz with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Aflion Shadow (Ink) switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Blue Topaz has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Blue Topaz for $3.49.
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 Blue Topaz linear switch offers a distinct and clacky sound profile that adds a satisfying auditory element to typing. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is known for its deep and thocky sound, providing a different but equally enjoyable typing experience. Both switches excel in delivering a unique sound signature that enhances the overall typing experience, giving users the option to choose based on their personal preference.
When it comes to feel, the Blue Topaz linear switch stands out for its easy-to-press nature, offering a smooth and lightweight typing experience that minimizes finger fatigue during extended use. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is praised for its bouncy feel, providing users with a lively and elastic feedback sensation that enhances the tactile typing experience. Both switches offer users a range of tactile sensations to choose from, catering to different preferences in typing feel.
In conclusion, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch each bring unique qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel, providing users with options to tailor their typing experience to suit their preferences. Whether you prefer a clacky sound and easy-to-press feel or a deep thocky sound and bouncy feel, both switches offer a high level of quality and performance. Ultimately, users can expect a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience with either switch, ensuring a smooth and efficient workflow in any typing task.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, consider your preference for actuation force and sound. If you prefer a lighter actuation force and a clacky sound signature, the Blue Topaz may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier actuation force with a bouncy feel and a thocky sound profile, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and needs.
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