Kailh Box White vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring

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) Single Spring. On one hand, the Box White is renowned for its clicky nature and maximum audio feedback. Typing on these switches feels akin to stepping on autumn leaves, with a distinct crunch and accented tactility. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring provides a medium level of tactility that is perfect for those seeking a tactile switch. With a lower actuation and bottom-out force, it offers approachable tactility and a deep and thocky sound profile. While these general descriptions are helpful, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your typing preferences.

By the numbers

Kailh Box White Clicky

Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring Tactile

$2.76 per 10

$4.50

$3.57 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Kailh Box White and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring both utilize polycarbonate in their top housing, resulting in a similar sound profile. The use of polycarbonate creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. It is a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a clear and resonant sound profile. Additionally, both switches feature a clear housing, which is aesthetically pleasing and especially useful for RGB lighting. Whether it's the Box White or the Shadow (Ink), the polycarbonate top housing ensures a consistent and vibrant sound and lighting experience.

However, when it comes to the bottom housing, there is a difference between the two switches. The Box White employs a nylon bottom housing, while the Shadow (Ink) utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing. Typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) contributes to the overall sharper and crisper sound profile. The bottom-out sound and feel of the switch will be more impacted by the bottom housing, giving each switch a distinct typing experience.

In terms of overall performance, the choice of housing materials in the Kailh Box White and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring undoubtedly influences their sound profiles. Both switches benefit from the use of polycarbonate in the top housing, delivering a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound. The translucency of polycarbonate also enhances the visual appeal, particularly when paired with RGB lighting. However, where the switches differ is in the bottom housing material. The Box White's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, while the Shadow (Ink)'s polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to the overall clarity and resonance. Ultimately, whether you prefer a more rounded or a sharper typing experience, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. In terms of actuation force, the Box White requires 50 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring requires a slightly lighter 48 grams. This means that the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring will have a slightly more sensitive and quicker response to key presses. However, both switches fall within the medium range of actuation force.

Moving on to the bottom out force, the Box White switch requires 60 grams of force to fully press down the key, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring provides a slightly lighter and smoother typing experience when fully depressing the keys.

Considering weight, some users may prefer the lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch, as this allows for longer typing sessions without experiencing fatigue. This could be particularly beneficial for those using a keyboard for work or engaging in extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial and tactile typing experience may opt for the Box White switch due to its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces.

In summary, the differences between the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch lie in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Box White switch requires slightly more force for both actuation and bottoming out, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch offers a lighter touch in both aspects. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preference and typing style.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, we find that the Box White has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of tradition, the 4.0 mm travel distance falls within the most commonly used range, while the 3.6 mm of the Box White is slightly shorter. Those who prioritize speed and quick response times, such as gamers, may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Box White. This allows for faster keystrokes and a more reactive experience. On the other hand, some individuals may find the shorter travel distance too abrupt and prefer a switch with a longer travel distance, such as the 4 mm of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring. This offers a more substantial depth and potentially a more satisfying keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preferences and the desired level of responsiveness.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Kailh Box White clicky switch is known for its resonant, high-pitched, and crunchy sound profile. When typing on these switches, users can expect a clean and sharp auditory experience, similar to the sound of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch lacks specific information about its sound profile. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box White switch is described as polished. This indicates that the switch has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. With reduced friction and smooth key travel, users can expect a seamless typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is described as bouncy. These switches provide a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, giving the keys a lively feel with a sense of rebound when pressed.

Based on the available information, the Kailh Box White clicky switch offers a unique combination of a resonant, high-pitched, and crunchy sound profile, along with a polished feel for smooth and refined typing. In contrast, the specific sound profile of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is unknown, but it offers a bouncy feel, providing users with a sense of rebound when pressing the keys. Both switches have their own subjective qualities, and choosing between them ultimately depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience. It is important to consider factors such as sound, feel, and the overall compatibility with the keyboard and keycaps being used.

Conclusion

In closing, if you are someone who values maximum audio feedback and enjoys a crisp, high-pitched sound profile when typing, the Kailh Box White clicky switch would be the ideal choice for you. With its medium bottom out force and the unique sensation of typing on them, it offers a satisfying "stepping on autumn leaves" crunch and an accented level of tactility. Additionally, the Box White provides a polished and smooth typing experience, thanks to its refined finish and reduced friction.

On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility and a deep, thocky sound profile, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch would be the better option for you. With a slightly lighter bottom out force than the Box White, it offers a very approachable level of tactility and a spring-like feedback sensation, giving you a bouncy and lively feel when typing.

Ultimately, the decision between the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch comes down to personal preference. If you prioritize audio feedback and a polished typing experience, the Box White is the way to go. On the other hand, if you value a medium level of tactility and a deep, thocky sound profile, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is the better choice for you. Consider your preferences in sound and feel to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh Box White Clicky

$2.76 per 10

Learn more

Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring Tactile

$4.50

$3.57 per 10

Learn more