Aflion Blush vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blush and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Aflion Blush and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct typing experiences. The Blush is a linear switch, known for its smooth and snappy feel. With a longer, two-stage spring and a long pole, it provides a unique poppy sound signature. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is a tactile switch, offering a medium-high level of tactility. Its long, two-staged spring provides deep, resonating thocks when typing. While the Blush is categorized as low-pitched, creamy, silky, and buttery, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is categorized as clacky, high-pitched, sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped. Depending on your personal preferences, these switches offer different advantages. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Dual-stage stainless steel spring
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Blush and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, it is evident that they both utilize polycarbonate in their top housing. This shared material allows for a similar sound profile that is sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate is beneficial for those who plan to use RGB lighting, as it enhances the overall aesthetics of the switches. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and visual appeal from both the Blush and Shadow (Ink) Double Spring.
However, the significant difference lies in the bottom housing material. The Blush features a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring incorporates a polycarbonate bottom housing, which aligns with its top housing. Thus, it contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile, complementing the overall characteristics of the switch.
Due to the distinction in their bottom housings, there will be variations in the sound and feel when pressing down on the switches. The Blush's nylon bottom housing will have more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the polycarbonate top housing focuses on the sound when releasing a key. This differentiation allows for a diverse typing experience for users who prioritize either the pressing or releasing action of the keys.
In summary, while the top housings of the Aflion Blush and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring are the same, utilizing polycarbonate for enhanced sound and visual effects, their bottom housings differ. The Blush's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the sharper and crisper sound. These distinctions in the bottom housing materials create a contrasting typing experience, focusing on either the pressing or releasing action of the keys.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, it is important to note that both switches fall under the medium force category. However, the specific values differ slightly between the two. The Blush has an actuation force of unavailable grams, making it difficult to directly compare to the Shadow. However, both switches have a bottom out force of around 58-63 grams, which is considered to be medium.
In terms of weight, the Aflion Blush linear switch is lighter as the actuation force is not provided, potentially making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. This enables users to type for longer periods without experiencing fatigue, making it ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams. This provides a stronger push feel, resulting in a more substantial typing experience for users who prefer a firmer touch.
It is worth mentioning that even though the specific actuation forces may vary, both switches fall within the medium range. Therefore, individuals seeking a similar typing experience in terms of actuation force can expect similar results from both switches. Ultimately, the decision between the Aflion Blush and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch will depend on personal preference for a lighter or heavier touch during typing.
Travel distance
The Aflion Blush linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has a longer distance compared to the Blush. The 4.0 mm distance of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is more traditional, while the 3.3 mm of the Blush is slightly shorter. Gamers, who prioritize faster response times, may prefer the Blush with its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who prefer a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on a key may opt for the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference, with responsiveness favoring the Blush and a more profound feel favoring the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Aflion Blush has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Blush for $4.07.
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
When it comes to sound, the Aflion Blush switch offers a low-pitched sound profile. These switches have a bass-heavy and mellow tone, providing a pleasant and soothing typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch has a clacky and high-pitched sound. This switch produces a sharp and snappy sound, which can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Aflion Blush switch is known for its creamy, silky, and buttery typing experience. These switches are exceptionally smooth and offer a seamless and effortless keystroke sensation. With lubrication applied in the switch at the factory, typing on the Blush switch feels like gliding your fingers across the keys with ease. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch provides a sharp and accented tactile feedback. The tactile bump is strong and crisp, making each keypress distinct and satisfying. Additionally, the longer or dual-staged springs in these switches give them a snappy and bouncy feel, enhancing the overall responsiveness of the typing experience. It is worth mentioning that the Shadow switch is considered a medium tactile switch, providing a noticeable amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle.
Considering all the information provided, the Aflion Blush switch offers a smooth and snappy linear typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch provides a tactile typing experience with a clacky and high-pitched sound. While they offer different qualities, both switches deliver satisfying and enjoyable typing experiences. Whether you prefer the smoothness and snappiness of the Blush switch or the tactile feedback and distinct sound of the Shadow switch, you can expect similar levels of quality and performance from these Aflion switches.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, it ultimately depends on your preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a smooth and snappy typing experience with a poppy sound signature, then the Blush linear switch is the ideal choice for you. It offers a medium bottom out force of 58 grams and is best known for its impressively smooth and full feel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility and deep, resonating thocks, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch is the perfect option. With a medium bottom out force of 63 grams, this switch variant, thanks to its long, two-staged spring, provides a sharp and crisp tactile bump that is neither overwhelming nor subtle.
Consider the sound profile that suits your preference as well. The Blush switch produces a low-pitched, bass-heavy, and mellow tone. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is clacky and high-pitched, offering a sharp and percussive sound when pressed.
Lastly, in terms of feel, the Blush switch offers a creamy, silky, and buttery typing experience, enhancing smoothness and reducing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is characterized by a sharp and accented tactility, providing a strong and crisp tactile bump with each keypress. Additionally, its longer or dual-staged springs make the typing experience feel more snappy, bouncy, and stepped.
To summarize, if you value a smooth and snappy linear switch with a poppy sound signature, opt for the Aflion Blush. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility and deep thocks, go for the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring. Consider your sound and feel preferences to make the best choice for your typing experience.
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