Outemu Crystal vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, there are several factors to consider. Two popular options in the market are the Outemu Crystal and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring. The Crystal switch offers a unique, linear typing experience with its elastic feel and medium-light weight. Typing on these switches produces a neutral sound profile, making them ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch provides a medium level of tactility, perfect for those who enjoy the tactile feedback while typing. With a lower actuation and bottom-out force, these switches offer an approachable tactility. Furthermore, they feature a deep and thocky sound profile, which adds to the overall typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Crystal and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring share several similarities. Both switches utilize polycarbonate as the material for their top and bottom housings. This choice of material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate results in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting.
Despite these similarities, there may be differences in the specific characteristics of the top and bottom housings. If the top and bottom housings differ for a switch, the qualities associated with each housing material will be divided between the top and bottom portions. When pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing will have a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing's impact will be more evident in the sound produced when releasing a key.
In conclusion, both the Outemu Crystal and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches use polycarbonate for their top and bottom housings. This choice of material creates a similar sound profile that is sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper. The impact of each housing material may differ, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing shaping the sound when releasing a key. Regardless, both switches offer the benefits of polycarbonate's stiffness and translucency for enhanced sound and aesthetic appeal.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, there are a few notable similarities and differences. In terms of actuation force, the Crystal requires 45 grams to trigger a keystroke, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring requires a slightly heavier force of 48 grams. Both switches can be categorized as medium-light in terms of actuation force.
Regarding bottom out force, both switches share the same value of 55 grams, suggesting that the experience of pressing all the way down on the keys would be similar for both switches. This makes them suitable choices for users who prefer a medium-light bottom out force.
Weight consideration plays a significant role in keyboard preferences. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Crystal's slightly lower actuation force may offer an advantage, allowing for comfortable and extended typing periods. This lightweight nature makes it an ideal choice for individuals who frequently use their keyboard for work or engage in long gaming sessions.
On the other hand, for users who crave a more substantial typing experience and a stronger push feel, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's slightly higher actuation force could be preferable. This heavier force provides a tactile feedback that some typists find satisfying and enhances the overall typing experience.
In summary, while both the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch share a medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams, they differ slightly in terms of actuation force. The Crystal has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring requires a slightly heavier force of 48 grams. Therefore, individuals seeking a lighter typing experience may opt for the Crystal, while those desiring a more substantial push feel may lean towards the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch plays a significant role in determining the typing experience and responsiveness of a keyboard. In this case, both the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch have an equal travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key, users will feel the same distance between the top and bottom positions for both switches. Therefore, whether utilizing the Crystal or the Shadow (Ink), users can expect similar results in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Outemu Crystal comes in at $3.40 per 10 switches.
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
The Outemu Crystal linear switch is best known for its unique, linear typing experience. It has a fairly elastic feel and a medium-light weight, resulting in a typing experience that is both responsive and comfortable. When it comes to sound, the Crystal switch has a neutral sound profile, making it a good choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. Its sound can be described as chirpy, with a little squeak that sets it apart from other switches. It also has a high-pitched sound, producing a sharp and crisp noise when pressed. In terms of feel, the Crystal switch is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience. The switch has a sleek finish that reduces friction and ensures smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch offers a medium level of tactility. With a lower actuation and bottom-out force, this switch provides a very approachable level of tactility, making it a recommended choice for those who prefer a tactile switch. The Shadow switch also features a deep and thocky sound profile, which adds a sense of satisfaction to the typing experience. However, specific details of its sound are unknown, as the available information does not provide any descriptors for its sound profile.
In summary, the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch offer different subjective qualities. The Crystal switch provides a unique and linear typing experience with a neutral sound profile, described as chirpy and high-pitched. It also offers a polished feel, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Shadow switch offers a medium level of tactility and produces a deep and thocky sound. While both switches have their own distinct qualities, it is important to consider factors such as personal preference, the keyboard and keycaps used, and the overall typing experience desired in order to make the best choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear typing experience with a medium-light weight and a neutral sound profile, the Outemu Crystal linear switch would be a great choice for you. It offers a fairly elastic feel and a unique typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility and a deep, thocky sound profile, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch would be the way to go. It provides a lower actuation and bottom-out force, making it approachable for all typists. In terms of sound, the Crystal has a chirpy and high-pitched sound, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring does not have any specific sound descriptors mentioned. When it comes to feel, the Crystal offers a polished and smooth typing experience, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring provides a bouncy sensation with rebound when pressed. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preference for linear or tactile switches, as well as the desired sound and feel.
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