Jerrzi Coral vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Coral and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Jerrzi Coral, a linear switch, and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, a tactile switch, it becomes clear that each offers unique features that cater to different preferences. The Coral boasts a distinctively crisp typing feel and lower-pitched resonance, striking a balance between sophistication and performance. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring provides a medium level of tactility with a lower actuation and bottom-out force, making it approachable for users seeking a tactile experience. The Coral is categorized as 'Low-pitched' and 'Silky', while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is described as 'Bouncy'. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. 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
40g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Jerrzi Coral and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, which contributes to a more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the keyboard. In this aspect, both switches are similar in their choice of material and the resulting sound profile.
However, where the two switches differ is in their choice of bottom housing material. The Jerrzi Coral features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the crisper sound of polycarbonate. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring maintains a polycarbonate bottom housing, continuing the sharp and clear sound profile established by the top housing. This contrast in bottom housing material highlights the differences in sound and feel when typing on the two switches.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches plays a significant role in determining the sound and feel of typing experience. While both the Jerrzi Coral and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring benefit from the sharp and clear sound profile of polycarbonate in their top housing, the presence of nylon versus polycarbonate in the bottom housing results in distinct differences in sound characteristics. Whether one prefers the deeper and fuller sound of nylon or the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate is subjective and depends on individual preferences in typing experience.
Weight
The actuation force of the Jerrzi Coral linear switch is 40 grams, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch requires 48 grams to actuate a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Coral's force is unknown, whereas the Shadow switch has a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it slightly heavier than the actuation force. This means that the Aflion Shadow switch provides a lighter actuation force compared to the Jerrzi Coral, but a heavier bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Coral switch, while those looking for a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Aflion Shadow switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Jerrzi Coral linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Coral's shorter travel distance may appeal to those looking for a faster response time, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) with its longer travel distance could provide a more satisfying and tactile typing experience for those who prefer more depth in their keystrokes. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference in terms of travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jerrzi Coral has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Coral for $2.30.
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 Jerrzi Coral linear switch is known for its low-pitched resonance, which results in a mellow and bass-heavy tone while typing. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch offers a deep and thocky sound profile, providing a unique auditory experience. Both switches can provide a satisfying sound experience, but the Coral switch may appeal more to those who prefer a lower-pitched sound, while the Shadow switch is ideal for those who enjoy a deeper and thocky tone.
Moving on to feel, the Jerrzi Coral linear switch is described as silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is characterized as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation that gives a lively feel with rebound when pressed. Both switches offer distinct tactile experiences, with the Coral switch emphasizing a silky typing feel and the Shadow switch offering a bouncier sensation while typing.
In conclusion, the Jerrzi Coral linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch each bring unique qualities to the table. The Coral switch excels in providing a low-pitched sound and a silky typing feel, appealing to those who prefer a refined and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Shadow switch stands out with its deep and thocky sound profile and bouncy tactile feedback, catering to users who enjoy a more lively and tactile typing sensation. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience that is sure to satisfy newcomers to the world of mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Jerrzi Coral linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, you should choose the Coral if you prioritize a unique typing experience with a lower-pitched resonance and a smooth, silky feel. On the other hand, opt for the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility, lower actuation and bottom-out force, and a bouncy feel. Consider your typing preferences and priorities to select the switch that best suits your needs and enhances your overall keyboarding experience.
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