Kailh Box White vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that offer unique typing experiences are the Kailh Box White and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring. The Box White is renowned for its clicky feedback, providing users with the satisfying sensation of typing on autumn leaves, accompanied by a high-pitched crunch. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is a tactile switch, offering a medium-high level of tactility through its two-staged spring. Typing on these switches produces deep and resonating thocks, resulting in a distinct and pronounced typing experience. Both switches have their own set of qualities, providing audio feedback and enhancing the typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box White and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring share similar features in terms of their housing materials. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize sound quality. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for compatibility with RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the switches. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and visual effects when using either the Kailh Box White or the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring.
However, the bottom housings of these switches differ. The Kailh Box White utilizes a nylon material, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring employs a polycarbonate bottom housing. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon's softer composition, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. As a result, the nylon bottom housing provides a duller and rounder sound experience. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, similar to its top housing. By having different materials for the top and bottom housings, each switch achieves a unique combination of qualities.
When interacting with these switches, the qualities of the bottom housing will be more pronounced during key press and bottom-out actions. As the bottom housing has a greater impact on the sound and feel when fully depressing a key, users will notice the characteristics of the nylon or polycarbonate bottom housing in these moments. Conversely, the properties of the top housing material will be more evident when releasing a key and experiencing the sound and feedback generated. Therefore, understanding the different impacts of the top and bottom housings can help users make an informed decision based on their preferences for sound and tactile sensations.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, both switches fall within the medium range of weight. The Kailh Box White clicky switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's 55 grams. This means that the Box White switch requires slightly less force to initiate a keystroke. Similarly, the Box White switch also has a lighter bottom out force of 60 grams compared to the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's 63 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Kailh Box White switch may be more suitable, as it allows for typing for longer periods without as much fatigue. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offers a slightly heavier push feel, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger resistance.
In terms of weight, both switches fall within the medium range, ensuring a balance between typing comfort and responsiveness. Therefore, whether choosing the Kailh Box White clicky switch or the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, users can expect similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, with subtle differences in the amount of force required for each.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Box White has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. Although both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with 4.0 mm being the most common and 3.0 mm being the shallowest, the Box White offers a slightly shorter travel distance. This shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers or those seeking faster response times, as it allows for quicker keystrokes. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's longer travel distance may provide a sense of more substantial depth to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness or depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Kailh Box White comes in at $2.76 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
In terms of sound, the Kailh Box White switch is known for its resonant and high-pitched characteristics. Typing on these switches produces a clean and sharp sound, resembling the experience of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is described as clacky and high-pitched. It produces a sharp and snappy sound, similar to the sound of a crisp percussion instrument. Both switches offer sharp and crisp sound profiles when pressed, giving a satisfying auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box White switch is considered polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience. The materials used and potential factory lubing result in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offers a variety of tactile qualities. It has a sharp tactile bump, providing high feedback intensity and distinctive feedback with each keypress. Additionally, it is described as accented, offering a medium amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. The snappy and bouncy nature of these switches adds to their responsiveness, making the typing experience feel more lively. Some users may also experience a stepped sensation with these switches, feeling some pre-travel and/or post-travel.
Taking all the available information into account, it is clear that the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box White switch provides a resonant and high-pitched sound, while the Shadow switch produces a clacky and high-pitched sound. In terms of feel, the Box White switch offers a polished typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Shadow switch provides a sharp and distinctive tactility, along with a snappy and bouncy sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the individual's preference for sound and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
In closing, if you value maximum audio feedback and enjoy the satisfying crunch of stepping on autumn leaves, the Kailh Box White clicky switch is the ideal choice for you. Its resonant, high-pitched, and crunchy sound profile will provide an immersive auditory experience. Additionally, the Box White offers a polished feel, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-high level of tactility and enjoy the deep, resonating thocks when typing, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch is perfect for you. Its clacky and high-pitched sound profile will provide a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. Moreover, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offers a variety of feel options, such as sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped, giving you a more dynamic and responsive typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch comes down to personal preference. Consider what type of sound and feel you prefer in a switch, and choose accordingly. Both switches offer their own unique benefits and will enhance your typing experience.
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