TTC Gold Pink vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Pink and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that are worth considering are the TTC Gold Pink and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring. The Gold Pink is a linear switch, known for its incredibly light actuation force of just 37g, making it one of the lightest switches available. This characteristic makes it perfect for those seeking a fast and effortless typing experience, particularly for rapid typing or gaming. Additionally, the Gold Pinks offer a satisfying level of feedback with their clacky sound, delivering a light and lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is a tactile switch that stands out for its medium level of tactility. Offering a lower actuation and bottom-out force, this variant of the Shadow switch provides a very approachable tactility when used. Furthermore, it features a deep and thocky sound profile, adding to the overall typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the most suitable switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Nylon
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 TTC Gold Pink and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches share many similarities. Both switches utilize a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate makes it particularly advantageous for switches with RGB lighting. This material allows for vibrant and eye-catching illumination, enhancing the visual appeal of the switches.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Gold Pink features a nylon material, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has a polycarbonate bottom housing. This difference in bottom housing materials leads to variations in sound profiles. The Gold Pink's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature, allowing it to absorb more sound and produce a duller, rounder sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring contributes to a sharper, crisper sound, amplifying the clarity and resonance of the switch.
While the top and bottom housings play distinct roles in the overall sound and feel of the switches, it's important to note that both the Gold Pink and the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring share the common benefits of using polycarbonate. Despite the difference in bottom housing material, both switches yield a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing also allows for clear and resonant sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while there may be variations in the feeling and sound signature between the two switches, the inclusion of polycarbonate ensures similar results in terms of sound quality and overall performance.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Gold Pink has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring requires a slightly higher force of 48 grams to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Gold Pink has a lighter force of 45 grams, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 55 grams.
With this information, it is evident that the Gold Pink provides a lighter and more effortless typing experience, requiring less force to trigger and bottom out on the keys. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offers a slightly higher actuation and bottom out force, providing a more substantial and tactile typing experience.
For those who prefer a lighter switch to type for extended periods, such as professionals using a keyboard for work or gamers engaging in long gaming sessions, the Gold Pink would be a suitable choice. Conversely, individuals who prefer a stronger key push and crave a more pronounced typing sensation may find the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring to be more suitable. Overall, the choice between these switches ultimately depends on personal preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches will provide a similar tactile feel when pressed down on a key. The travel distance refers to the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom, which is the distance you feel when pressing a key. Therefore, whether you choose the Gold Pink or the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, you can expect to experience the same travel distance and tactile feedback.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Pink has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Pink for $4.28.
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.
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
In terms of sound, the TTC Gold Pink switch is best known for its clacky sound. This provides a satisfying level of feedback while typing. However, the specific sound characteristics of the Gold Pink switch are not described in the information provided. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch features a deep and thocky sound profile. The sound of both switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gold Pink switch has several descriptors that provide insight into its characteristics. It is described as buttery, indicating a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. It is also described as mild, offering a gentle typing sensation that is approachable for most users. The Gold Pink switch is feathery, meaning it is exceptionally light to press and reduces finger fatigue by requiring little exertion. Additionally, it is described as subtle, offering a gentle resistance and a sound signature that is not resonant, making it suitable for shared spaces. Lastly, the Gold Pink switch is polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience due to materials used or factory lubing.
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation. This gives the keys a lively feel and a rebound when pressed. Unfortunately, there is no further information available about the specific feel of this switch.
Overall, the TTC Gold Pink switch offers a light and lively typing experience with a clacky sound. It is buttery, mild, feathery, subtle, and polished in terms of feel. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is known for its approachable tactility and deep, thocky sound profile. While the specific sound of the Gold Pink switch and feel of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch are unknown, based on the available information, one can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel to those mentioned for each switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you value a fast and effortless typing experience with a light actuation force, the TTC Gold Pink linear switch is the way to go. These switches are perfect for rapid typing or gaming, offering a satisfying level of feedback with their clacky sound. They provide a light and lively typing experience that is smooth and fluid, reducing finger fatigue and providing comfort for extended typing sessions.
On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is highly recommended. With a lower actuation and bottom-out force, these switches offer a very approachable tactility. They also feature a deep and thocky sound profile, providing a bouncy and lively feel with rebound when pressed.
Ultimately, your choice between the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch will depend on your preference for actuation force, feedback, and sound profile. Consider whether you prioritize a light and lively typing experience or a tactile switch with medium tactility. Assessing your needs and preferences will guide you in making the right decision for your mechanical keyboard switch.
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