Huano Elf vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Huano Elf and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can significantly impact your typing experience, with each offering unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Huano Elf switches are renowned for their linear feel, characterized by a POK top housing that enhances acoustics, delivering a deep sound signature alongside a medium-light actuation force—perfect for users seeking a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offers a distinct tactile experience, featuring a long, two-staged spring that provides a pronounced level of tactility. This switch is particularly favored by those who enjoy a stimulating feedback with each keypress, complemented by resonant thocks that add auditory depth to the typing experience. While the Elf switches offer a seamless and quiet performance ideal for both gaming and typing, the Shadow switches cater to those who appreciate a more dynamic and engaging feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel spring
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Huano Elf and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches present a compelling contrast in both composition and acoustic properties. The Elf employs a top housing made from polyketone (POK), which is renowned for its smooth feel and exceptional durability. With a coefficient of friction of 0.04, POK offers a slightly smoother typing experience compared to LY. Its impressive wear resistance, which is 14 times stronger than POM, and high shock resistance—2.3 times stronger than nylon and 1.4 times stronger than POM—make it highly resilient. This characteristic not only enhances the longevity of the switches but also delivers a tactile and clacky response that many users appreciate. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, noted for fostering a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate sharpens acoustic feedback, offering a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for those who enjoy RGB lighting due to its translucent nature.
When it comes to the bottom housings, the differences between the two models become even more pronounced. The Huano Elf features a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a more muted and fuller sound profile. The softness of nylon allows it to absorb sound effectively, resulting in a deeper auditory experience that appeals to users who prefer a warmer, rounder typing feel. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring employs a polycarbonate bottom housing as well, which aligns with its top housing to produce a consistent sharper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate in both the top and bottom lends to a distinct clarity, emphasizing the acoustics of the switch and providing a high-pitched feedback that is preferable for users who lean toward a more expressive auditory experience.
Ultimately, the differences in housing materials create unique typing experiences in both switches. The Huano Elf, with its polyketone top and nylon bottom, offers a blend of smoothness and depth, making it suitable for users who enjoy a more tactile and warm feedback. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's polycarbonate construction in both top and bottom contributes to a highly resonant and crisp sound profile, making it ideal for those who appreciate clarity and brightness in their typing experience. While both switches deliver quality results, the choice between them hinges on the user's preference for either a clackier, more solid sound with the Elf or a sharper, crisper feedback with the Shadow (Ink).
Weight
When comparing the Huano Elf linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces and bottom out forces. The Huano Elf features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a more effortless typing experience during prolonged use, such as in work settings or extended gaming sessions. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring requires a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, catering to those who appreciate a more substantial push feel when typing. Additionally, the Shadow (Ink) switch has a defined bottom out force of 63 grams, which indicates a firmer tactile response when the switch is fully pressed down, while the bottom out force for the Huano Elf is not available. This further emphasizes the more robust typing experience offered by the Shadow (Ink) switch compared to the lighter Elf, making it suitable for different user preferences in terms of switch weight and feedback.
Travel distance
The Huano Elf linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch features a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This indicates that the Elf switch provides a shorter actuation depth, which may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times for a more rapid gameplay experience. In contrast, the Shadow switch, with its greater travel distance, may be preferable for users who enjoy a more substantial keypress with a satisfying depth, as it offers a more traditional feel. Therefore, those who prioritize responsiveness may lean towards the Huano Elf, whereas individuals who favor a more tactile experience might choose the Aflion Shadow. Ultimately, the difference in travel distance highlights distinct user preferences in the tactile sensation and responsiveness of each switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Huano Elf has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Elf for $3.29.
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 Huano Elf linear switch offers a deep sound signature that leans toward a richer, more bass-oriented profile, thanks, in part, to its POK top housing which enhances acoustics. This results in a typing experience that some may find more satisfying due to the balanced depth of the sound. In comparison, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch produces a combination of clacky and high-pitched sounds, characterized by sharp and snappy tones. The distinct crispness can feel bright and percussive, contrasting with the deeper notes of the Elf. Depending on the choice of keyboard and keycaps, you might experience different acoustic outcomes, but generally, the Shadow switch is likely to provide a more pronounced auditory feedback during use.
In terms of feel, the Elf switch presents a medium-light actuation, which can be described as smooth and satisfying, although specifics about its tactile feedback are lacking. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is known for its prominent, keen tactility complemented by an aggressive dual-staged spring. This creates a sharp tactile bump that delivers a highly responsive typing experience. The Shadow's feel is further characterized by its snappy and bouncy nature, providing excellent feedback with each keypress. While the Elf focuses on a smooth linear experience, the Shadow appeals more to users who appreciate tactile and dynamic sensations in their typing.
In summary, the Huano Elf linear switch stands out for its deep sound and smooth, medium-light feel, creating a more subdued but pleasing typing experience. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch excels in producing crisp sounds and offers distinctive tactile feedback, making it ideal for those who favor a snappier and more responsive typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound and tactile response—whether you lean towards the richer acoustics and smoothness of the Elf or the bright, sharp feedback of the Shadow—you'll be able to select a switch that aligns with your typing style and audio preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Huano Elf linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch fundamentally depends on your personal preferences in typing experience and sound profile. If you lean towards a smooth and unpretentious typing experience with enhanced acoustics, the Elf's deep sound signature and medium-light feel might better suit your needs. It's an excellent option for those who appreciate a more relaxed keypress without the distinct tactile feedback, making it well-suited for long typing sessions or gaming where fast inputs are critical. On the other hand, if you crave a pronounced tactile experience and enjoy the lively engagement that comes with tactile feedback, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring will likely be your switch of choice. Its medium-high tactility, combined with the satisfying deep thocks upon bottoming out, is ideal for typists who want that sharp, responsive feel and sound. Ultimately, consider your priorities—whether it’s the smoothness and sound of the Elf or the tactile engagement and auditory feedback of the Shadow—to select the switch that will enhance your keyboard experience.
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