Gateron Glory Yellow vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Gateron Glory Yellow and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to enhancing your typing experience, choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch can make all the difference. The Gateron Glory Yellow switch is a linear option that excels with its smooth keystroke and satisfying travel distance, making it ideal for those who crave a seamless and uninterrupted typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offers a distinct tactile feedback that caters to typists who appreciate a more pronounced response; its medium-high tactility combined with deep, resonant thocks adds a unique auditory element to typing. While the Glory Yellow is perfect for users seeking fluidity and speed in their keystrokes, the Shadow switch appeals to those wanting tactile feedback and enhanced acoustic character. 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
50g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
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
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
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
15mm single-stage spring
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the Gateron Glory Yellow and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches, the differences in housing materials play a significant role in their sound profiles and overall typing experience. The Glory Yellow utilizes a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon, being a softer plastic, is effective at absorbing sound, leading to a rounder auditory experience that many users find pleasant and resonant. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring features a polycarbonate top housing, which delivers a sharper and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate allows for a more pronounced and resonant sound when typing, which might be preferred by those who enjoy a more lively keystroke feedback. Thus, while both switches aim to enhance user experience, they cater to different auditory preferences through their contrasting materials.
The bottom housings of the two switches showcase a similar divergence in properties. The Gateron Glory Yellow is also equipped with a nylon bottom housing, further emphasizing the deep and soft sound profile consistent throughout the switch. This quality is particularly advantageous during the bottom-out phase of a keystroke, where the tactile sensation is deeply influenced by the material of the bottom housing. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's bottom housing is constructed from polycarbonate, contributing to the overall crispness and clarity in sound. The combination of a polycarbonate bottom housing with its top counterpart enhances the sharper sound profile, especially in terms of resonance and impact when the key is pressed down.
Ultimately, the variances between nylon and polycarbonate in the Gateron Glory Yellow and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring lead to different sound characteristics while typing. If users seek a typing experience that balances both deeper, fuller sounds and crisper, clearer feedback, the mixed-material approach presents a unique solution. Those opting for the Glory Yellow will enjoy a mellow auditory feedback due to both housings being made of nylon, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring’s dual polycarbonate construction aligns with those who prefer a more pronounced keystroke sound. Despite the differences, understanding how each housing material contributes to the overall experience allows users to align their choice with their individual preferences effectively.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Glory Yellow features an actuation force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option, ideal for prolonged typing sessions and gaming due to reduced finger fatigue. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has a higher actuation force of 55 grams, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Additionally, the Shadow switch has a bottom out force of 63 grams, providing a firmer feedback when the key is fully pressed down, while the bottom out force for the Glory Yellow is unknown. This means users may experience a softer overall feel with the Glory Yellow, especially during rapid typing or gaming, whereas the Shadow offers a more pronounced resistance both at actuation and bottoming out. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for either a lighter touch or a heftier feel.
Travel distance
The travel distance of both the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch is 4 mm, which means they share the same travel distance. This similarity indicates that users can expect a comparable keypress feel and depth when engaging either switch. Since both switches require the same amount of movement from the top to the bottom, the tactile feedback is likely to provide a consistent experience across both options, allowing for similar performance in typing and gaming scenarios.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Glory Yellow 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 Yellow 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 Yellow produces a sound profile that is typically smooth and muted, favoring a quieter typing experience that can be ideal for office environments or shared spaces. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is notable for its deep, resonating thock sound, which tends to be louder and more pronounced. This switch produces a clacky, high-pitched sound that resonates with each keypress, making it more suitable for those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. Keep in mind that the overall sound experience can also be influenced by the keyboard's design and the keycap materials used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Glory Yellow provides a lighter, smoother keystroke, making it great for quick typing with less resistance. This switch is designed for comfort and ease, allowing for fluid motion without major tactile bumps. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is characterized by its distinct and pronounced tactile feedback. The dual-staged spring contributes to a sharper, crisp tactile bump that can be felt with each keystroke, classified as both snappy and bouncy. This enhances the typing experience, offering a more engaging feel for users who appreciate tactile feedback and responsive key actions.
In summary, the Gateron Glory Yellow switch offers a smooth and muted typing experience with a lighter feel, ideal for those who prefer a more subtle keypress. Meanwhile, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch excels in providing a rich auditory experience with its deeper sound and stronger tactile feedback, making it a perfect choice for tactile switch enthusiasts. Depending on your preferences for sound and tactile feel, either switch can result in enjoyable typing experiences, but they cater to different user needs—smoothness versus tactile responsiveness.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between Gateron Glory Yellow linear switches and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switches ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and intended use case. If you're after a smooth and uninterrupted typing experience, where every keystroke glides effortlessly, the Glory Yellow is an excellent choice. Its lightweight feel and fluid keystrokes make it ideal for fast-paced typing or gaming scenarios where speed is key. On the other hand, if you appreciate tactile feedback and enjoy a more pronounced response with each keypress, the Shadow (Ink) will serve you well. The medium-high tactility paired with the deep, resonant sound offers a satisfying typing experience, perfect for those who relish the rhythm of their keystrokes. Consider your typing style: if you prefer a quiet, swift action, the Glory Yellow is the way to go. But if you're looking for that satisfying tactile sensation with a bit of auditory feedback, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) will enhance your typing or gaming experience. Ultimately, your choice should reflect both your tactile preferences and the type of activities you engage in most frequently.
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