Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro, a linear switch, to the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, a tactile switch, it becomes evident that both offer unique characteristics catering to different preferences. The V3 Crystal Pro stands out for its fully polycarbonate construction, providing a bright and chirpy sound signature along with a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offers a medium-high level of tactility with a two-staged spring design, resulting in deep, resonating thocks when typing. While the Crystal Pro switch is categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Chirpy', and 'Polished', the Shadow switch is described as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Sharp', 'Accented', 'Snappy', 'Bouncy', and 'Stepped'. 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
48g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Polycarbonate
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring utilize polycarbonate for their top and bottom housing, resulting in a sharp, higher-pitched sound profile and a clear resonant sound. The polycarbonate material's stiffness is a key factor in creating these sound qualities. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal of the keyboards. In terms of sound and aesthetic benefits, both keyboards offer similar advantages due to their shared use of polycarbonate for housing material.
However, where the two keyboards may differ is in their design and construction of the housing. While both utilize polycarbonate for their housing, the specific design and build of the housings may vary between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring. This could potentially result in subtle differences in sound profile and feel when typing on each keyboard. Despite both keyboards incorporating polycarbonate for their housing, these design variances could lead to unique typing experiences for users of each keyboard.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring both benefit from the use of polycarbonate for their housing, providing a sharp, clear sound profile and aesthetic appeal. While they may share similar advantages in terms of sound and visual enhancements, differences in housing design and construction could lead to varying typing experiences for users of each keyboard. Overall, the choice between the two keyboards may come down to personal preference in terms of design, feel, and typing experience.
Weight
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a slightly lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch. The V3 Crystal Pro requires 48 grams of force to actuate and 60 grams to bottom out, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring needs 55 grams to actuate and 63 grams to bottom out. Both switches can provide a medium typing experience, with the V3 Crystal Pro being slightly lighter overall. For those who prefer a lighter typing feel for longer typing sessions or gaming, the V3 Crystal Pro may be the better choice. In contrast, those looking for a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may lean towards the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch. Ultimately, deciding between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer of the two switches compared to the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch with a travel distance of 3.8 mm. While both switches have relatively short travel distances, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offers a slightly deeper press compared to the Akko V3 Crystal Pro. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Akko V3 for quicker response times, while those looking for a more substantial key press may opt for the slightly longer travel distance of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Crystal Pro for $3.30.
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 Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch offers a chirpy sound signature that is unique and stands out from other switches. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch provides a clacky and high-pitched sound that is sharp, crisp, and percussive. The sound produced by these switches can be further influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch offers a bouncy and polished typing experience, with a spring-like feedback sensation and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch is described as sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped. These attributes contribute to a tactile typing experience with a distinct tactile bump and responsive feel.
Overall, while the sound and feel of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch differ in their characteristics, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to individual preferences. Whether you prefer a chirpy and bouncy typing experience or a clacky and sharp tactile feel, both switches provide a distinct and enjoyable typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing feel and sound profile.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch or the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a switch with a bright and chirpy sound profile, as well as a silky smooth typing experience, the V3 Crystal Pro may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a deep, resonating thock sound and a medium-high level of tactility thanks to its double-spring design, the Shadow (Ink) switch could be the ideal option. Both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience, so it's important to consider factors like sound, feel, and bottom out force to determine which switch best suits your needs. Ultimately, the decision is yours based on what you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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