HMX Deep Navy vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the HMX Deep Navy and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the diverse world of mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often comes down to individual preference between linear and tactile options. The HMX Deep Navy switch stands out for its smoothness and a unique sound profile, offering a rich, sharp acoustic experience thanks to its full nylon construction and Ly stem. This switch is ideal for those who value a seamless keypress without any tactile feedback, making it perfect for gaming and prolonged typing sessions where quiet operation is a priority. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring presents a tactile experience with a medium-high level of tactility, enhanced by its long, two-staged spring, producing deep, resonating thocks with each keystroke. This switch caters to users who appreciate the physical feedback of a tactile bump, ideal for typists who relish the connection with each press. Choosing between these two options ultimately hinges on your preferences for sound and feel; 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
40g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Deep Navy and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, a notable distinction emerges between the nylon and polycarbonate used in their respective constructions. The Deep Navy features a nylon top housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to the material's softer composition, which absorbs sound more effectively. This quality lends itself to a more muted auditory experience, creating a duller and rounder sound. Conversely, the Aflion Shadow employs polycarbonate for its top housing, offering a sharper, crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances resonance, generating a clearer sound, especially beneficial for users who enjoy enhanced RGB lighting capabilities due to its translucency.
Both keyboards utilize nylon and polycarbonate for their bottom housings, creating a similar contrast in auditory characteristics. The nylon bottom housing of the Deep Navy continues to cultivate that deeper, fuller sound, reinforcing the muted acoustics found in the top housing. Contrastingly, the polycarbonate bottom housing in the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring instills a high-pitched, resonant clarity that complements the top housing's sound profile. While the different materials create distinctive audio experiences, both designs will ultimately display how the bottom housing's qualities notably influence the feel and sound when bottoms-out, ultimately affecting user experience.
In examining how the housing materials influence sound profiles in usage, it is essential to recognize the interplay between the two types of plastic. For the Deep Navy, the softer nylon contributes to a fully cohesive sound that focuses more on richness, while in the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, the polycarbonate brings forth a bright and articulate clarity. Users can expect varied auditory results when pressing and releasing the keys on each switch, which is shaped significantly by the differing materials of the housings. Overall, while the HMX Deep Navy and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring leverage different materials for their housings, both can deliver satisfying typing experiences, just through distinctly unique sound profiles.
Weight
The HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch present contrasting characteristics in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Deep Navy features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a less strenuous typing experience, ideal for extended usage during work or gaming. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, appealing to users who favor a more substantial push feel, which can enhance tactile feedback during typing. Consequently, if you are looking for a lighter switch for longer sessions, the Deep Navy is your best bet; however, if you enjoy a firmer key feel, the Shadow (Ink) would be more suitable. Since the actuation and bottom out forces of these two switches differ, they offer notably distinct typing experiences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, it becomes clear that they cater to different preferences. The Deep Navy has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the shorter option while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is longer and more traditional. For users who prioritize responsiveness and quicker actuation, the Deep Navy’s shorter travel distance may be more appealing; it allows for faster key presses, ideal for gaming. Conversely, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring’s longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth and tactile feedback for those who enjoy a more pronounced keystroke. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct experiences that cater to varying preferences in keyboard feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Deep Navy has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Deep Navy for $2.79.
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
The sound profile of the HMX Deep Navy linear switch is characterized by a rich, sharp resonance, largely attributed to its full nylon construction. This material choice contributes to a smooth auditory experience that many users find appealing, providing a solid yet unobtrusive sound during typing sessions. Conversely, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch produces deep, resonating thocks, which are a more pronounced and textured auditory experience. The clacky and high-pitched nature of the Shadow switch makes it distinctly more lively compared to the deeper tones of the Deep Navy. While both switches offer unique auditory experiences, the Deep Navy leans towards a subdued sound ideal for noise-sensitive environments, whereas the Shadow switch offers a more pronounced sound profile that may appeal to those who enjoy a more energetic typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Deep Navy's smoothness from the Ly stem allows for a fluid keystroke with no tactile interruption, making it a pleasure for those who favor a linear typing experience. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch brings a complex tactile feedback signature to the table. Featuring a sharp and snappy tactile bump, it provides noticeable feedback with each keypress, allowing typists to perceive their keystrokes more distinctly. This switch's dual-staged spring enhances its lively, bouncy feel, giving users a sense of rebound that ensures a responsive engagement. While the Deep Navy offers a sleek, seamless feel for uninterrupted typing, the Shadow switch presents a more interactive experience through its pronounced tactile features, catering to users who appreciate distinct feedback.
In summary, the HMX Deep Navy linear and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switches provide different auditory and tactile experiences, catering to varied preferences in mechanical keyboard use. The Deep Navy offers a smooth, rich sound and seamless feel, perfect for those who prefer a quieter, linear switch. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) elevates user engagement with its sharp auditory feedback and a tactile response that combines snappiness and bounce. Whether you lean towards a soft and smooth typing experience or a more dynamic interaction, both switches are capable of delivering a pleasant typing experience, with distinct characteristics to suit different needs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing between the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch ultimately depends on your typing style and preferences. If you enjoy a lighter, smoother experience with a rich and deep sound profile, the Deep Navy switch is an excellent choice. Its 45-gram bottom-out force makes it ideal for rapid typing and gaming, allowing you to effortlessly glide across your keyboard with minimal resistance. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile experience with a distinct feedback on each keypress, the Shadow Double Spring is likely to satisfy your needs. With a 63-gram bottom-out force and pronounced tactility, it delivers a more engaged typing experience—a great fit for typists who appreciate the sensation of each stroke without overwhelming resistance. Additionally, the unique clacky sound and snappy feel of the Shadow switch can add an enjoyable auditory element to your typing. Ultimately, consider your focus—whether you prioritize smoothness or tactile feedback—and select the switch that aligns with your desired experience.
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