Gateron Glory Red vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Gateron Glory Red and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the differences between various options, such as the Gateron Glory Red and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring. The Gateron Glory Red switch is celebrated for its smooth keystroke and light actuation force, providing an effortless typing experience that's ideal for those who prioritize speed and fluidity in their key presses. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offers a tactile feedback with a medium-high level of tactility, creating a satisfying response with each press, particularly loved by users who enjoy a more pronounced feedback while typing. The deep, resonating thock sound of the Shadow adds an auditory layer to the experience, enhancing the overall engagement. Each switch has its unique attributes that cater to different preferences; one offers a swift, uninterrupted flow while the other indulges in a structured tactile sensation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
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
POK
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
The Gateron Glory Red switches utilize nylon plastic for both their top and bottom housings, leading to a consistent audio profile characterized by a deep and full-bodied sound. The use of nylon, a softer material, contributes to the overall acoustic dampening of the switches, absorbing sound and resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience. This homogeneity in material choice allows for a more uniform typing experience, with the sound profile remaining stable from key press to key release. As such, for users seeking a mellow auditory feedback, the Glory Red switches are a solid choice due to the cohesiveness provided by nylon.
In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring employs polycarbonate for its top and bottom housings, which brings a distinctively sharper and crisper sound profile to the typing experience. The polycarbonate's stiffness contributes to a more resonant audio quality, creating an auditory feedback that is not only pronounced but also reinforces the clarity upon key release. Given that polycarbonate is translucent, it further enhances the aesthetic appeal when paired with RGB lighting, attracting users who desire both form and function in their keyboard experience. This material differentiation between the two switches typically highlights a preference for either a warm or a sharp sound profile.
Despite the differences in housing materials, both the Gateron Glory Red and the Aflion Shadow switches offer unique benefits molded by their respective materials. When the two switch designs are effectively contrasted, the impact of each housing on the overall typing experience becomes clear. For instance, while the Glory Reds present a cohesive sound that remains consistent through both the bottom-out and release phases, the Shadows provide a dynamic auditory feedback that enhances the clarity with which users perceive their key presses. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may boil down to personal preference regarding sound profile and tactile feedback rather than stark disparities in performance.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces that cater to varying preferences among users. The Glory Red features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, appealing to users who appreciate a more substantial typing experience. While the bottom out force for the Glory Red is not available, the Shadow (Ink) is characterized by a bottom out force of 63 grams, contributing to its tactile feedback. This difference emphasizes that the Shadow (Ink) provides a more pronounced resistance when fully pressed down, further enhancing its tactile nature. Thus, users looking for something lightweight and easier to press will find the Glory Red advantageous, while those who seek a firmer feel will prefer the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, it is evident that they differ significantly. The Glory Red features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that users of the Glory Red can expect a slightly shorter actuation distance, which may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times. Conversely, the Shadow (Ink) switch, with its 4 mm distance, provides a more pronounced depth, which some users might find more satisfying during typing. Ultimately, if you prefer responsiveness and faster actuation, the Gateron Glory Red is the better option due to its shorter travel, whereas those who enjoy a more substantial feel might gravitate toward the Aflion Shadow.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Glory Red has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Glory Red for $4.19.
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 Gateron Glory Red switch is often characterized by a lower-volume output, producing a smooth and quieter keystroke that allows for a more understated typing experience. This can make it a more suitable option for office environments or shared spaces where noise levels should be kept to a minimum. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offers a significantly more pronounced auditory profile. With its deep, resonating thocks, this switch produces clacky, high-pitched sounds that can be described as sharp and crisp. The sound from the Shadow switch is attention-grabbing, making it ideal for those who enjoy a more lively and engaging typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Glory Red switch provides a smooth keystroke experience but lacks any tactile feedback, making it ideal for users who prefer an uninterrupted, linear travel path. This quality promotes fast typing, as there’s no tactile bump to break the flow of keystrokes. Conversely, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring features a robust tactile profile with medium-high tactility, offering a pronounced tactile bump that can be felt clearly with each press. The feedback is sharp and distinct, making it particularly satisfying for typists who appreciate tactile switches. Additionally, the dual-staged spring design contributes to a snappy and bouncy feel, providing an elastic feedback sensation that enhances the overall typing experience.
In conclusion, when comparing the Gateron Glory Red linear switch with the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, users will find distinct differences in both sound and feel. The Glory Red's smooth and quiet operation contrasts sharply with the loud and tactile feedback of the Shadow switch. For those who appreciate a linear switch, the Glory Red can offer a serene typing experience, while the Shadow switch caters to enthusiasts seeking pronounced tactile responses and engaging sounds. Choosing between these switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in typing style and the desired auditory experience.
Conclusion
Ultimately, your choice between the Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch will depend heavily on your typing preferences and intended use. If you prioritize a smooth and light keystroke for rapid typing or gaming sessions, the Glory Red switch is an excellent option, as it offers a seamless typing experience without any tactile bumps, making it easier to execute fast keypresses. Moreover, if you prefer a quieter operation while still enjoying a satisfying travel distance, the Glory Red is a solid choice. On the other hand, if you value tactile feedback and enjoy a more engaging typing experience, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring would suit you perfectly with its medium-high tactility and pronounced "thock" sound profile. It's ideal for those who appreciate a sharper response with each keystroke, particularly suited for typing tasks where feedback is crucial. Therefore, consider your preferences: go for the smooth glide of the Glory Red for speed and fluidity or opt for the tactile delight of the Shadow (Ink) for a more interactive feel.
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