TTC Brother vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The TTC Brother clicky switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch offer unique features that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. The Brother stands out with its lightweight actuation of 37g, providing a tactile experience that is both responsive and comfortable. Its satisfyingly crunchy sound signature is a delight for fans of clicky switches, while the tactile bump strikes the perfect balance between feedback and subtlety. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch by Aflion offers a medium level of tactility with a lower actuation and bottom-out force, making it a great choice for those seeking a more approachable tactile feel. The deep and thocky sound profile adds to its appeal. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Brother and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, both switches use polycarbonate for their top housings. This material imparts a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile to both switches due to its stiffness. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. However, the Brother's nylon bottom housing differs from the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's polycarbonate bottom housing. The nylon bottom housing of the Brother creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the sharper sound profile of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's polycarbonate bottom housing, thanks to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound.
The contrasting material choices between the Brother and the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring reflect in how each switch sounds and feels when typing. The Brother's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's polycarbonate bottom housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. On the other hand, both switches share the same polycarbonate top housing, which brings a consistent sharp and high-pitched sound characteristic to both switches. The different bottom housing materials showcase how varying housing materials can significantly impact the overall typing experience, with the Brother offering a more rounded sound profile compared to the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's more clear and resonant sound profile.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the TTC Brother and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring play a crucial role in defining their sound profiles. While both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, providing a sharper and crisper sound profile, they diverge in their bottom housing materials. The Brother's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, contrasting with the sharper sound produced by the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's polycarbonate bottom housing. These differences highlight how bottom housing materials can impact the overall typing experience, showcasing the importance of housing materials in customizing keyboard switches to suit individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, it is evident that the Brother switch is lighter in terms of actuation force at 37 grams, compared to the Shadow (Ink) switch which has a heavier actuation force of 48 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Shadow (Ink) switch at 55 grams is also heavier than the Brother switch, of which the bottom out force is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming, the Brother switch may be the more favorable option. Alternatively, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience or a stronger push feel may lean towards the Shadow (Ink) switch with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences, ultimately providing users with a range of options to suit their typing needs.
Travel distance
The TTC Brother clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Brother has a shorter travel distance compared to the Shadow (Ink), which means it may provide a quicker response time for users who prefer that. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) switch has a slightly longer travel distance, which might offer a more satisfying depth for those who prefer a more pronounced feel when pressing the keys. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Shadow (Ink) being on the higher end. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for travel distance and key feel.
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) 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.
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
When it comes to sound, the TTC Brother clicky switch is known for its crunchy and satisfying click sound that resonates with each key press. Clicky switch enthusiasts will especially appreciate the clear and precise sound produced by the Brother switch. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch offers a deep and thocky sound profile, which may appeal to those looking for a quieter typing experience. Both switches provide unique sound qualities that cater to different preferences, so choosing between the two will largely depend on personal preference and the overall setup of your keyboard.
In terms of feel, the TTC Brother clicky switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force for actuation. This lightweight actuation, combined with a subtle tactile bump, offers a comfortable and effortless typing experience that minimizes finger fatigue during extended use. Additionally, the Brother switch is described as having a stepped feel, adding to the overall typing experience with its distinct two-stage keystroke sensation. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is characterized by its bouncy feedback, providing a lively and spring-like sensation with each key press. This tactile switch offers a medium level of tactility, making it a versatile option for those seeking a balance between feedback and ease of use.
Overall, the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch both offer unique qualities that cater to specific preferences in sound and feel. While the Brother switch excels in providing a crisp and crunchy click sound paired with an easy-to-press typing experience, the Shadow switch delivers a deeper and quieter typing sound with a bouncy tactile feedback. Choosing between these switches will ultimately come down to individual preference in sound profile, tactile feedback, and overall typing experience. If you enjoy a clicky, crisp sound with easy actuation, the TTC Brother switch may be the ideal choice. Alternatively, if you prefer a deep and thocky sound with a bouncy tactile feel, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is a solid option to consider.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are a fan of clicky switches and enjoy a lightweight typing experience with a satisfyingly crunchy sound, then the TTC Brother switch would be an excellent choice for you. 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 switch is the way to go. Consider your typing preferences and whether you prioritize sound or feel when making your decision between these two fantastic options. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing styles, so pick the one that aligns best with your preferences for the ultimate typing experience.
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