HMX Cheese vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cheese, a linear switch, and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, a tactile switch, offer unique typing experiences for users. The Cheese stands out for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, delivering a satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature that is lighter than majority of switches on the market. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is praised for its medium level of tactility, lower actuation and bottom-out force, making it approachable for users seeking a tactile feedback. With a deep and thocky sound profile, this switch falls under the 'Bouncy' category. Each switch has its own set of advantages that cater to different preferences. 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
43g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The main difference between the housing materials of the HMX Cheese and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring lies in the type of plastic used - nylon for the Cheese and polycarbonate for the Shadow. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for a more clear and resonant sound experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it suitable for switches with RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal of the keyboard.
While both the Cheese and the Shadow switches share similar characteristics in their housing materials in terms of sound profiles, they do offer distinct differences in their overall feel and sound feedback. The nylon bottom housing of the Cheese contributes to a deeper and fuller bottom-out sound and feel, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow provides a sharper and crisper bottom-out experience. This showcases how the bottom housing material can play a significant role in determining the overall typing experience on a keyboard, emphasizing the importance of choosing the right housing material for individual preferences and needs.
Ultimately, the choice between the HMX Cheese and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches comes down to personal preference and desired typing experience. Whether one prefers the deeper and fuller sound profile of the nylon housing in the Cheese or the sharper and crisper sound profile of the polycarbonate housing in the Shadow, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. It is essential to consider factors such as sound, feel, and aesthetics when selecting a switch for a keyboard, as the housing material plays a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, the Cheese has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Shadow's 48 grams. The bottom out force of the Cheese is also lighter at 46 grams, while the Shadow requires a heavier 55 grams to bottom out. This means that the Cheese offers a lighter typing experience overall, making it more suitable for those who prefer a softer touch. Alternatively, the Shadow provides a slightly more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces, appealing to users who prefer a stronger push feel. Both switches offer different weight options to cater to varying preferences, allowing users to customize their typing experience accordingly. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in determining the overall feel and performance of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Travel distance
The HMX Cheese linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. While both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, the Cheese offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance. Gamers may appreciate the Cheese for its faster actuation, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch with its longer travel distance. Overall, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience one is looking for.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Cheese has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cheese for $3.79.
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 HMX Cheese linear switch offers a satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, which is unique to its ultra-light design. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch provides a deep and thocky sound profile, enhancing the overall typing experience. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that can elevate your typing sessions, with the Cheese switch being lighter and potentially more audible than the Shadow (Ink) switch.
In terms of feel, the HMX Cheese linear switch is praised for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, making it a favorite among users who value a smooth keystroke. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch offers a bouncy sensation, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback that adds a lively feel to your typing. While the Cheese switch focuses on smoothness, the Shadow (Ink) switch emphasizes a medium level of tactility and a rebound effect when keys are pressed.
Overall, both the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. If you prefer a lighter switch with a satisfyingly clacky sound, the Cheese switch may be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a bouncy feedback sensation and a deep thocky sound profile, the Shadow (Ink) switch could be the perfect fit for your typing needs. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when it comes to choosing between the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, it ultimately depends on your preferences and typing style. If you are someone who values a smooth and light typing experience with a satisfying clacky sound, then the Cheese switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility and a deep and thocky sound profile, then the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch could be the better option. Consider factors such as bottom out force, sound profile, and feel to determine which switch aligns best with your typing needs. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
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