TTC Brother vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Brother clicky switch to the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, it's evident that both switches have unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Brother stands out for its lightweight actuation of just 37g, providing a tactile experience that is easy and enjoyable. Its crunchy sound signature will appeal to clicky switch enthusiasts, while the tactile bump strikes a perfect balance between feedback and subtlety. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offers a medium-high level of tactility with its two-staged spring design, resulting in deep, resonating thocks during typing. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial 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
17.5mm spring
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Brother and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate. Additionally, the clear nature of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the aesthetics of the switches. However, the Brother features a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Shadow's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and produces a duller and rounder sound overall.
The use of different materials for the top and bottom housings in the TTC Brother and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches results in a split of qualities between the two parts. When pressing down on the switch, the nylon bottom housing of the Brother will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, creating a deeper and fuller typing experience. Conversely, the polycarbonate top housing of both switches will influence the sound when releasing a key, producing a sharper and crisper sound profile. This division of housing materials allows for a unique typing experience with varying sound profiles throughout key presses.
Overall, the choice between the TTC Brother and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches comes down to personal preference in sound and feel. While both switches use polycarbonate for the top housing, the difference in bottom housing material - nylon for the Brother and polycarbonate for the Shadow - results in distinct typing experiences. The Brother offers a deeper and fuller sound profile with its nylon bottom housing, while the Shadow provides a clearer and more resonant sound due to its polycarbonate bottom housing. Ultimately, whether you prefer a sharper or duller sound profile will guide your decision between these two switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, it is evident that the Shadow (Ink) switch has a higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Brother's 37 grams. Additionally, the Shadow switch also has a higher bottom out force of 63 grams, while the Brother's bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Shadow switch provides a heavier typing experience compared to the Brother switch. For those who prefer a lighter typing feel, the Brother switch would be a better option, as it requires less force for actuation. However, for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Shadow switch would be the ideal choice. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, we see that the Brother has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Brother offers a slightly faster response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring provides a more substantial depth when pressed, which some users may prefer for a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with the Brother offering speed and the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offering depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Brother has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Brother for $3.30.
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
In terms of sound, the TTC Brother clicky switch is praised for its crunchy sound signature, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves, which will surely please enthusiasts of clicky switches. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch is described as producing a clacky and high-pitched sound when pressed, delivering sharp and percussive tones. While both switches offer distinct sound profiles, the Brother leans towards a crunchy experience, while the Shadow provides a more lively and snappy auditory feedback.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Brother clicky switch is known for its easy-to-press nature, offering minimal resistance during typing and enhancing the overall typing experience with its responsive and low-impact feel. Additionally, the Brother features a stepped design, providing a more moderate tactile feedback compared to other switches. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch is characterized by its sharp and accented feel, with a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be felt distinctly with each keystroke. Furthermore, the Shadow switch offers a snappy and bouncy sensation, making typing feel more dynamic and lively compared to the Brother switch.
In conclusion, the TTC Brother clicky switch excels in providing a crunchy sound profile and an easy-to-press feel with a moderate tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound experience, coupled with a sharp and accented tactile feel, providing a more intense and dynamic typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, with both options offering unique qualities that cater to different typing styles and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, you should consider the characteristics of each switch to determine which best suits your preferences. If you value a lightweight and easy-to-press switch with a satisfyingly crunchy sound and a subtle tactile bump, the Brother switch is an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-high level of tactility, deep thocks, and a sharp and snappy sound, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch may be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing experience and preferences, as both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different needs and preferences.
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