Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro 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 Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro is praised for its budget-friendly yet high-quality construction, providing a poppy and clacky sound profile with a smooth tactile sensation. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is noted for its medium level of tactility and lower actuation force, along with a deep and thocky sound profile. While the Cream Blue Pro boasts a more pronounced tactile feedback, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offers a gentler tactility. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housings. This results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal of the keyboards. However, while the V3 Cream Blue Pro features a nylon bottom housing, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring opts for a polycarbonate bottom housing. The nylon bottom housing of the V3 Cream Blue Pro elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound to create a duller and rounder sound.
The choice of housing materials in switches plays a significant role in the overall typing experience. The difference in bottom housing materials between the V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring results in distinct sound profiles when typing on these switches. The softer nylon bottom housing of the V3 Cream Blue Pro contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Conversely, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring leads to a sharper and crisper sound profile, emphasizing clarity and resonance. This difference highlights how housing materials can influence the overall typing sound and feel of a switch.
In terms of feel and sound, the top and bottom housing materials of a switch can have a significant impact on the typing experience. While both the V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring share polycarbonate top housing, their bottom housing materials create distinct typing experiences. When pressing down on a switch, the qualities of the bottom housing will be more pronounced, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. Understanding the role of each housing material in a switch can help users determine their preferred typing experience based on factors such as sound profile, feel, and aesthetics.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, it is evident that both switches fall into the medium-light category in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The V3 Cream Blue Pro has an actuation force of 45 grams, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has an actuation force of 48 grams, making the latter slightly heavier. However, both switches share the same bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that users can expect similar typing experiences in terms of how much force is needed to trigger a keystroke and fully press down on the switch. Ultimately, individuals who prefer a lighter typing feel may lean towards the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro, while those who enjoy a slightly stronger push sensation may opt for the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch is 3.3 mm, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, it is clear that the Aflion Shadow has a longer travel distance compared to the Akko V3. The shorter travel distance of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro may be preferred by gamers looking for a faster response time, while the longer travel distance of the Aflion Shadow may be favored by those seeking a more solid and tactile typing experience. Both switches offer different benefits depending on personal preference, but overall, the choice between the two ultimately comes down to whether a shorter or longer travel distance is preferred.
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) 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 Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switch is known for its distinct poppy and clacky sound profile, which is harmoniously paired with a creamy, tactile sensation. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch features a deep and thocky sound profile, providing a unique auditory experience. The sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps in use.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switch is characterized as accentuated, bouncy, snappy, and polished, offering a medium level of tactility that is smooth and refined. Users can expect a lively and responsive typing experience with these switches. On the contrary, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation that gives a sense of rebound when pressed. This switch is recommended for those looking for a tactile switch with a lower actuation and bottom-out force.
Considering the available information, it is evident that the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switch offers a lively and audible feedback with a creamy, tactile sensation, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch provides a deep and thocky sound profile with approachable tactility. Both switches have their unique qualities, and the choice between them ultimately depends on the specific preferences of the user. Whether you opt for the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro or the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch, you can expect a satisfying typing experience with either selection.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches, consider the following guidelines. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option with a distinct poppy and clacky sound profile coupled with a smooth tactile sensation, the V3 Cream Blue Pro is an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a more approachable level of tactility with a deep and thocky sound profile, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring may be the better option for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for sound, feel, and budget constraints. Choose the switch that aligns most closely with your desired typing experience and enjoy the benefits of a well-suited mechanical keyboard switch.
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