Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring mechanical keyboard switches, we see two distinct options for tactile switch enthusiasts. The V3 Cream Blue Pro offers a budget-friendly option with a delightful poppy and clacky sound profile, smooth keystrokes, and a creamy tactile sensation. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring provides a medium-high level of tactility with deep thocks and a unique two-staged spring design. While the Cream Blue Pro is characterized by its bouncy and polished feel, the Shadow switch stands out with its sharp and clacky feedback. 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
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
2.20 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
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
In terms of housing materials, both the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switches. However, the V3 Cream Blue Pro differs in its use of nylon for the bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's polycarbonate bottom housing, which provides a clearer and sharper sound.
The use of nylon in the bottom housing of the V3 Cream Blue Pro offers a softer and more absorbent sound profile, creating a duller and rounder sound when typing. In contrast, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring maintains a sharper and crisper sound quality, consistent with the top housing material. This difference in bottom housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience, as the bottom-out sound and feel will be influenced by the housing material used.
Overall, while both switches share the use of polycarbonate for the top housing, the distinction in bottom housing materials sets them apart in sound characteristics. The V3 Cream Blue Pro with its nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring with its polycarbonate bottom housing maintains a sharper and more resonant sound. Choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Cream Blue Pro has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's 55 grams, making the V3 Cream Blue Pro more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the V3 Cream Blue Pro has a slightly higher force of 55 grams compared to the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's 63 grams. This means that despite the lighter actuation force, the V3 Cream Blue Pro will provide a more substantial typing experience when fully pressed. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on whether the user prefers a lighter actuation force for extended typing sessions or a heavier bottom out force for a more tactile feel.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, it is evident that the V3 Cream Blue Pro has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The difference of 0.7 mm between the two switches may seem small, but it can have a significant impact on the typing experience. Gamers, who value faster response times, may prefer the V3 Cream Blue Pro with its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial key press may opt for the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro has an MSRP of $2.88 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Blue Pro for $2.00.
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double 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) Double 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 Blue Pro is known for its poppy and clacky sound profile, providing a lively and audible feedback that is quite distinctive. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offers deep and resonating thocks, emphasizing a more solid and rich sound experience. Both switches deliver unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Cream Blue Pro excelling in a poppy and clacky feedback, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offers a deeper and more resonating sound.
Moving onto feel, the V3 Cream Blue Pro is praised for its bouncy and snappy sensation, providing a smooth and polished typing experience that is accentuated with a medium tactile bump. This offers users a tactile yet refined feel that is not overwhelming but still noticeable. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is characterized by its sharp and accented tactile feedback, giving a strong and crisp tactile bump with a bouncy and snappy response. Both switches provide a satisfying tactile experience, with the Cream Blue Pro focusing on a medium, polished tactility, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring emphasizes a sharper and more intense tactile sensation.
In overall comparison, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches offer distinct qualities in sound and feel that cater to different user preferences. The Cream Blue Pro excels in providing a lively and audible feedback with a medium tactile feel, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring delivers a deeper and more intense tactile experience accompanied by a solid and resonating sound. Depending on whether you prefer a poppy and clacky sound with medium tactility or a deep and sharp tactile feedback, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switches, consider the following factors. The V3 Cream Blue Pro is a fantastic option for those looking for a budget-friendly switch with a lively, audible feedback and creamy, tactile sensation. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is ideal for individuals seeking a medium-high level of tactility with deep, resonating thocks when typing. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a poppy, clacky sound profile, go for the V3 Cream Blue Pro. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a sharp, clacky sound with a medium-high level of tactility, opt for the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preference for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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