Kailh Box Jade vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Jade and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offer unique features and experiences. The Box Jade is perfect if you desire a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and satisfying tactility. The crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps make every keystroke enjoyable. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is ideal for those seeking a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility. It features a long, two-staged spring that provides a deep, resonating thock when typing. Both switches have their distinct characteristics, however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Kailh Box Jade Clicky

Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring Tactile

$5.50 per 10

$4.50

$3.57 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Kailh Box Jade and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches share a key feature: both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This common material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it suitable for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics from both switches when it comes to their polycarbonate top housings.

However, the bottom housings of the two switches differ in materials. The Kailh Box Jade features a nylon bottom housing, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, owing to its relatively softer nature and its ability to absorb more sound. On the other hand, polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, leads to a more clear and resonant sound profile. Thus, the choice of bottom housing material can greatly impact the overall sound and feel of the switches.

When typing on the switches, users will feel the influence of the bottom housing material. The Kailh Box Jade's nylon bottom housing will create a slightly duller and rounder sound, providing a more traditional feel. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's polycarbonate bottom housing will contribute to a sharper and higher-pitched sound, resulting in a more pronounced and snappy typing experience. However, it's important to note that the top housing material will have a significant impact on the sound when releasing a key, adding another layer to the overall experience of using these switches.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, there are some similarities and differences between the two. In terms of weight, the Box Jade is slightly lighter, with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, both of which are considered medium. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is slightly heavier, with an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, also falling within the medium range.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Box Jade may be a better choice as it requires slightly less force to trigger a keystroke. This can be beneficial for extended typing sessions, making it suitable for work or long gaming sessions. However, for individuals who enjoy a more substantial and tactile feel when typing, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch provides a slightly heavier push, creating a more satisfying typing experience.

It is worth noting that both switches fall within the medium force range, so users can expect relatively similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the desired typing experience, whether it be a lighter and more effortless touch or a heavier and more substantial feel.

Travel distance

The Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch have different travel distances. The Box Jade has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has a travel distance of 4 mm. 4.0mm is the most traditional travel distance, while 3.0 mm is the most shallow. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times, making the Box Jade a suitable option for them. However, for those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring with its longer travel distance may be the better choice. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and whether one prioritizes responsiveness or a deeper feel.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Kailh Box Jade clicky switch is best known for its high-pitched, crunchy sound profile. When pressed, these switches produce a sharp and crisp sound that can be likened to stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. This clicky sound is perfect for those who prefer a more lively and pronounced auditory feedback during typing. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch is described as clacky and high-pitched. This switch variant also offers a sharp and snappy sound, similar to the Box Jade, providing a crisp, bright, and percussive typing experience. Both switches offer similar sound qualities, with a focus on sharpness and crispness.

Moving on to the feel, the Box Jade is categorized as an accented and invigorating switch. It provides a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, making it a great choice for those seeking a prominent amount of feedback without it being overly intense. The invigorating nature of these switches gives a snappy and reactive feel, creating an immersive typing sensation. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is described as sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped. The strong and crisp tactile bump of this particular switch results in a high feedback intensity, offering a distinct tactile experience with every keypress. The snappy and bouncy nature of the switch, coupled with the stepped feel, adds to the responsiveness and liveliness of the typing experience. Both switches provide a similar level of tactility, with a focus on pronounced feedback and a snappy feel.

In conclusion, both the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch offer satisfying subjective qualities. In terms of sound, they both provide a high-pitched and crisp auditory experience. When it comes to feel, they offer a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, while also delivering a snappy and reactive sensation. Depending on personal preference, one may prefer the crunchy sound profile and invigorating feel of the Box Jade, while others may enjoy the clacky sound and sharp, bouncy feel of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring. Overall, these switches offer similar qualities, providing an enjoyable typing experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and tactility, the Kailh Box Jade switch is perfect for you. It offers a crisp click sound and a crunchy tactile bump that adds a satisfying feedback while typing. 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 ideal choice. Its long, two-staged spring provides a deep and resonating thock sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive. In terms of sound, both switches are high-pitched, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. When it comes to feel, the Box Jade is described as accented and invigorating, offering a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is characterized as sharp, snappy, bouncy, and stepped, providing a high feedback intensity and a spring-like elastic feedback sensation. Ultimately, whether you prioritize the clicky typing experience of the Box Jade or the deep thock sound and tactile feel of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, you can choose the switch that best suits your personal preferences.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh Box Jade Clicky

$5.50 per 10

Learn more

Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring Tactile

$4.50

$3.57 per 10

Learn more