Gateron CM vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron CM and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring. The Gateron CM switch distinguishes itself with a full nylon housing, breaking away from traditional polycarbonate housings. This unique feature not only provides a richer and deeper sound signature but also offers a smoother typing experience, as the switches come with an impeccable factory lube job. Additionally, the CM switches incorporate a lengthened, dual-staged spring, resulting in a bouncy and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is an excellent choice for those seeking a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility. With a lower actuation and bottom-out force, these switches offer an approachable level of feedback without being too overwhelming. Furthermore, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring produces a deep and thocky sound profile that adds to the overall typing experience. 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
55g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
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
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron CM and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches differ in their housing materials. The CM features a nylon top housing, known for its ability to absorb sound and create a deeper, fuller sound profile. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Aesthetically, the polycarbonate top housing is advantageous for those planning to use RGB lighting, as its translucency enhances the visual effects. While the CM's nylon bottom housing complements the deeper sound profile, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring incorporates a polycarbonate bottom housing, contributing to a more clear and resonant sound output. The qualities brought by each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel upon pressing, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key.
Although the Gateron CM and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches have different housing materials, both still offer unique sound profiles. The CM's nylon top housing absorbs sound and creates a duller, rounder sound, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, crisper sound. However, despite the differences, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience. Additionally, the presence of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch makes it a suitable choice for those interested in RGB lighting, thanks to its transparent qualities. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the CM contributes to its overall sound profile, enhancing its deep and full sound. In conclusion, while the housing materials may differ, both switches deliver comparable results in terms of typing experience and sound output.
In terms of sound production and aesthetic considerations, the Gateron CM and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches diverge due to their housing materials. The CM's nylon top housing offers a classic switch experience, with its softer plastic absorbing more sound and creating a deeper, fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's polycarbonate top housing introduces a sharper and higher-pitched sound, contributing to a more distinct and crisp typing experience. Moreover, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch allows for enhanced aesthetics, particularly when it comes to RGB lighting. Its translucent nature adds a visually appealing element to the switch. Similarly, the bottom housing of each switch plays a role in the overall sound profile, with the CM's nylon bottom housing reinforcing the deep sound and the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring emphasizing clarity and resonance. Overall, despite their differences, both switches offer their own unique qualities in sound and appearance, catering to individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CM linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, it is evident that the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in differentiating the two. The Gateron CM has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's 48 grams, making the Gateron CM better suited for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Similarly, the CM also has a higher bottom out force of 63.5 grams in contrast to the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's 55 grams. This heavier bottom out force contributes to a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offers a lighter actuation force and bottom out force, making it an ideal choice for individuals who prefer a lighter switch for extended typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, while the Gateron CM provides a medium-heavy experience, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offers a medium-light feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron CM linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, it is clear that they have different distances. The CM has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of traditional travel distances, the 4 mm of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch falls within the more typical range, while the CM's 3.6 mm is slightly shorter. This means that if you prefer a faster response time, the shorter travel distance of the CM may be more preferable to you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a deeper and more pronounced key press, the longer travel distance offered by the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch may be a better choice. Ultimately, it depends on personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron CM has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CM for $4.25.
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
The Gateron CM linear switch is best known for its unique sound signature. With its full nylon housing and impeccable factory lube job, these switches deliver a rich, deep bassy sound. The low-pitched nature of the CM switches adds to their overall depth and richness, providing a satisfying thocky sound profile. When typing on the CM switches, users can expect a smooth and buttery feel. The combination of the full nylon housing and factory lube job creates a polished and frictionless typing experience, resulting in seamless and effortless keystrokes. The elongated, dual-staged spring in the CM switches also adds to the feel by providing a bouncy sensation while typing.
On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch offers a different sound and feel experience. Although there is no specific information about the sound of the Shadow (Ink) switch, being a tactile switch, it is likely to produce a less pronounced sound compared to the CM linear switch. However, it is worth noting that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used. In terms of feel, the Shadow (Ink) switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback and a lively feel with each key press. This implies that the switch offers a tactile bump and rebound when pressed.
In conclusion, the Gateron CM linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The CM switch is renowned for its rich, deep, and thocky sound profile, thanks to its full nylon housing and impeccable factory lube job. The CM switch also provides a smooth and buttery feel, with a polished and frictionless typing experience. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) switch's sound profile is unknown, but being a tactile switch, it is likely to produce a less pronounced sound. The feel of the Shadow (Ink) switch is described as bouncy, offering a spring-like feedback and lively feel. Both switches promise an enjoyable typing experience, albeit with different sound and feel characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are seeking a linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a rich, deep sound profile, the Gateron CM switches would be an excellent choice for you. With their full nylon housing and impeccable factory lube job, they offer a smooth and polished typing experience, evoking a sense of gliding gracefully with each keystroke. Additionally, the lengthened, dual-staged spring in the CM switches provides a bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a deep, thocky sound profile, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switches would be a great fit for you. These switches offer a very approachable level of tactility, and their lower actuation and bottom-out force make them easy to engage. Furthermore, they provide a satisfying sound profile that adds to the overall typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on your preference for linear or tactile switches, as well as the specific sound and feel characteristics that you find most appealing.
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