Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring stand out as popular choices with distinct characteristics. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro is a linear switch that offers a satisfying combination of a poppy, clacky sound and a smooth feel, making it ideal for those who appreciate a vibrant auditory experience and creamy tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is a tactile switch known for its medium-high level of tactility and deep, resonating thocks while typing, perfect for those who prefer a more pronounced feedback while typing. Both switches have their own unique qualities that make them appealing to different users. 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
50g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
63g
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
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, it is evident that both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This means that both switches will produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the polycarbonate material is known for its stiffness, which contributes to a clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucent nature of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, as it allows light to shine through the housing.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing materials. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This difference in bottom housing material may impact the overall sound and feel of the switches when typing or gaming.
Overall, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference in terms of sound profile and feel. While both switches offer a similar polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and crisp sound, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro's nylon bottom housing will provide a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's polycarbonate bottom housing. Ultimately, users looking for a more rounded sound experience may prefer the V3 Cream Yellow Pro, while those seeking a sharper sound profile may lean towards the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, we can see that the V3 Cream Yellow Pro is slightly lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces. The Cream Yellow Pro has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams. Both switches fall into the medium force category, making them suitable for a wide range of users. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Cream Yellow Pro, while those who enjoy a slightly stronger push feel may opt for the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it shorter than the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it ideal for gamers looking for faster inputs. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch provides a deeper keypress feel with its longer travel distance, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial tactile feedback. Both switches offer different typing experiences based on their travel distances, so the choice between them ultimately comes down to personal preference.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow 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 Yellow 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
When it comes to sound, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch is known for its poppy and clacky sound, providing a vibrant auditory experience while typing. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch offers deep and resonating thocks, giving a more substantial and crisp sound profile. Both switches provide unique sound qualities that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard enthusiasts, with the Cream Yellow Pro offering a lighter and poppier sound compared to the Shadow switch's heavier thocks.
In terms of feel, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch is described as easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, snappy, and polished, offering a smooth and low-impact typing experience that is comfortable for extended use. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch is described as sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped, providing a more intense tactile feedback with distinct bumps during keypresses. Both switches excel in providing unique tactile feels, with the Cream Yellow Pro focusing on a light and effortless typing experience, while the Shadow switch offers a more pronounced and tactile feel during keystrokes.
Taking all the information into account, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches offer distinct qualities in sound and feel that cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Cream Yellow Pro excels in providing a poppy and clacky sound with an easy-to-press and smooth typing feel, ideal for those who enjoy a vibrant auditory experience and a comfortable typing feel. In contrast, the Shadow switch offers a deeper and more resonant sound with a sharp and pronounced tactile feel, perfect for those seeking a more tactile and intense typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance the typing experience based on individual preferences.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you are looking for a budget-friendly linear switch with a medium bottom out force and a satisfying combination of sound and smoothness, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro is a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility and a deep, resonating sound, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch would be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize the auditory experience and creamy tactile feel of the V3 Cream Yellow Pro, or the tactile feedback and spring-like sensation of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch. Consider your typing style, preferences, and budget when choosing between these two switches for your mechanical keyboard.
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