Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring. The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro is a linear switch celebrated for its unique poppy and clacky sound, coupled with a smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offers a tactile typing experience with a medium level of tactility and a deep, thocky sound profile. While the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro is ideal for budget-conscious individuals seeking a high-quality switch, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is perfect for those looking for a tactile switch with a softer feel. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
20mm
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the switches. Despite this similarity in material for the top housing, there are differences in the bottom housing material between the two switches.
The V3 Cream Black Pro features a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. This difference in bottom housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience, with the V3 Cream Black Pro having a slightly different sound and feel compared to the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring.
Overall, while both switches share the benefits of using polycarbonate in their top housing, the variation in bottom housing material brings about distinct differences in sound and feel between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring. The combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the V3 Cream Black Pro offers a unique typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring maintains a sharper and crisper sound due to its polycarbonate bottom housing. These housing material choices play a crucial role in shaping the overall sound and tactile feedback of each switch, catering to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Aflion switch for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may opt for the Akko switch. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces, providing users with options depending on their preferences for typing intensity.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it a shorter option compared to the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The V3 Cream Black Pro offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, ideal for gamers looking for fast inputs. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch provides a deeper key press experience with its longer travel distance, which may be preferred by users who enjoy a more substantial typing feel. Both switches offer unique benefits depending on individual preferences, with the V3 Cream Black Pro being the shorter option and the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring being the longer option in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro has an MSRP of $3.77 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Black Pro for $2.70.
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
In terms of sound, the V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch offers a high-pitched and sharp sound when pressed, providing a distinct and crisp auditory experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch has a deep and thocky sound profile, giving a more robust and solid sound to each keystroke. The difference in sound between the two switches caters to different preferences, whether you prefer a sharper sound or a deeper thock.
Moving on to feel, the V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch is characterized by its creamy and bouncy typing experience. The smooth and buttery sensation of the switch, combined with its spring-like feedback, offers a pleasant and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like and elastic feedback when pressed. Both switches offer a lively feel, with the V3 Cream Black Pro leaning towards a smoother glide while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring featuring a more tactile bounce.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch offer unique sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Cream Black Pro switch provides a high-pitched and creamy typing experience, ideal for those who enjoy a sharper sound and buttery feel. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch delivers a deep thocky sound and bouncy feedback, appealing to individuals who prefer a more robust sound and elastic sensation. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel, ensuring a satisfying typing experience regardless of your choice.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing feel and sound. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and a smooth, buttery typing experience with a unique clacky sound profile, the V3 Cream Black Pro may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a tactile feedback with a deep and thocky sound profile, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, both switches offer high quality and unique characteristics, so choose the one that aligns most with your personal typing preferences.
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