Kailh Box Royal vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Royal and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Kailh Box Royal and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring. The Box Royal is renowned for its intense tactility, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a highly tactile typing experience. With a sharp and binary tactility, these switches provide a satisfying feedback that can be described as nearly aggressive. Additionally, the Box Royal produces a relatively higher pitched sound profile, adding to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offers a medium level of tactility, making it a more approachable option for users who prefer a slightly softer typing experience. With lower actuation and bottom-out forces, these switches provide a pleasant and comfortable tactility. Furthermore, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring boasts a deep and thocky sound profile, enhancing the auditory aspect of typing. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities to help you decide which switch is best suited to your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Royal and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring have contrasting housing materials. The Box Royal features a nylon top and bottom housing, while the Shadow (Ink) has a polycarbonate top and bottom housing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. In comparison, polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While the Box Royal produces a duller and rounder sound, the Shadow (Ink) delivers a clearer and more resonant sound.
Both switches share similar characteristics in terms of housing material impact. The nylon bottom housing of the Box Royal and the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) contribute to the bottom-out sound and feel. When pressing down on these switches, the characteristics of the bottom housing will be felt. Both housing materials have their own unique effects, with nylon providing a deeper and fuller sound, while polycarbonate offers a sharper and crisper sound.
On the other hand, the impact of the top housing is more noticeable when releasing a key. The nylon top housing of the Box Royal and the polycarbonate top housing of the Shadow (Ink) affect the sound produced when a key is let go. While the nylon top housing creates a duller and rounder sound, the polycarbonate top housing results in a more clear and resonant sound. However, it is worth noting that if a switch features a clear housing, it is likely to be made of polycarbonate, making it especially useful for those planning to use RGB lighting.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Kailh Box Royal and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches differ significantly. The Box Royal utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housing, offering a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) relies on polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound. While the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Despite their differences, both switches provide unique sound profiles attributed to their respective housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Box Royal requires a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Shadow Single Spring's 48 grams. This means that the Box Royal may be more responsive and require less effort to trigger a keystroke. On the other hand, the Shadow Single Spring has a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams compared to the Box Royal's 70 grams. This difference indicates that the Shadow Single Spring may offer a softer and gentler typing experience when fully pressing down on the keys.
In terms of weight preference, those who prefer a lighter touch for prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming sessions may find the Box Royal more suitable. The lighter actuation force allows for easier and smoother keystrokes, reducing finger fatigue over time. On the contrary, individuals who seek a more substantial and pronounced typing experience might lean towards the Shadow Single Spring with its slightly heavier actuation force.
While the differences in actuation force and bottom out force provide distinct characteristics to each switch, it is important to note that both switches fall within the medium range. Therefore, regardless of preference, users of both the Box Royal and the Shadow Single Spring can expect relatively similar results in terms of force required for keystrokes. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on the individual's specific typing preferences and requirements.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch have different travel distances. The Box Royal has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has a travel distance of 4 mm. 4.0 mm is considered the most traditional travel distance, while 3.0 mm is the most shallow. In comparison, the Box Royal is slightly shorter in travel distance than the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring. This means that when pressing down on a key with the Box Royal, you will feel a slightly shorter distance compared to the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring.
The choice between these two switches ultimately depends on personal preference. Gamers, for example, often prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. If you prioritize quick and responsive key presses, the Box Royal with its shorter travel distance would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, some individuals may find the shorter travel distance to feel too abrupt. In this case, the longer travel distance of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring would provide a deeper and more satisfying keystroke. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on your desired level of responsiveness and depth when inputting commands on your keyboard.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Kailh Box Royal comes in at $6.25 per 10 switches.
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
The Kailh Box Royal tactile switch is best known for its sharp, binary tactility, making it perfect for those who prefer a nearly aggressive tactile experience. These switches have a relatively higher-pitched sound profile when pressed. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch offers a medium level of tactility, making it a great option for those who want a more approachable tactile feel. It also produces a deep and thocky sound profile.
Based on the available information, the Box Royal has a higher-pitched sound profile, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring provides a deep and thocky sound. Both switches offer different levels of tactility, with the Box Royal being sharper and more intense, and the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offering a bouncy and lively feel.
If you prefer a switch with a crisp and sharp tactile bump, along with a higher-pitched sound, the Kailh Box Royal would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium level of tactility and a deep and thocky sound, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is highly recommended. It's important to note that the sound and feel of switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you're someone who craves an intense and aggressive tactile experience, the Kailh Box Royal switch is the perfect choice for you. With its sharp and binary tactility, you'll feel a distinct bump with every keypress, providing a high feedback intensity. Additionally, if you prefer a higher-pitched sound profile, the Box Royal's relatively higher pitch will be music to your ears. On the other hand, if you're seeking a more approachable level of tactility, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is highly recommended. With a medium-light bottom out force, you'll experience a tactile sensation that is still noticeable, but not overwhelming. The Shadow (Ink) also features a deep and thocky sound profile, making it a pleasant choice for those who prefer richer and bassier tones. Lastly, if you enjoy a bouncy and lively feel when typing, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch will provide you with that satisfying rebound. Ultimately, the choice between the Box Royal and Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches depends on your preference for tactility intensity, sound profile, and key feel. Happy typing!
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