TTC Gold Red Pro vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Gold Red Pro is praised for its versatility and ease of press, providing a seamless typing experience with a neutral sound signature suitable for various environments. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring stands out for its medium-high level of tactility and deep thocks, making it ideal for those who prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback. 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
43g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
NPI
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
18.5mm spring
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the resonant qualities of the switches, making them ideal for users looking for a clear and distinct typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visual appeal to the switches.
In contrast, while the Gold Red Pro features a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound profile, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring sticks with polycarbonate, which maintains its sharp and clear characteristics. The use of nylon in the Gold Red Pro absorbs more sound due to its softer nature, creating a duller and rounder typing experience. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing in the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring continues the trend of a crisper sound profile, highlighting the differences in material choice between the two switches.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in a mechanical switch can significantly impact the sound and feel of typing. While the TTC Gold Red Pro offers a mix of polycarbonate and nylon for varying sound profiles between top and bottom housing, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring sticks with polycarbonate throughout for a consistent typing experience. Both switches prioritize clarity and resonance in their sound profiles, with the material choices playing a key role in achieving this goal. Whether you prefer a deeper sound with nylon or a crisper sound with polycarbonate, both switches offer unique characteristics to cater to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, it is apparent that the Gold Red Pro is lighter with an actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's 55 grams. However, the Gold Red Pro's bottom out force is unknown, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has a bottom out force of 63 grams. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Gold Red Pro may be the better option, especially for longer typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier actuation and bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing feel and force required for keystrokes.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch slightly longer in terms of travel distance compared to the Gold Red Pro. The Gold Red Pro's 3.8 mm travel distance falls on the shorter end of the spectrum, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's 4 mm distance is more traditional. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Gold Red Pro with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more pronounced key press may lean towards the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, both switches offer unique experiences based on their respective travel distances, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red Pro for $2.90.
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
In terms of sound, the Gold Red Pro linear switch provides a neutral and low-pitched typing experience with a thocky sound that is both satisfying and subtle, making it suitable for various environments. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound profile with deep resonating thocks that give a sharp and crisp auditory feedback. Depending on personal preference, users may find the Gold Red Pro's neutral and low-pitched sound more suitable for a quiet office setting, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's clacky and high-pitched sound may be preferred by those who enjoy a more distinct typing noise.
When it comes to feel, the Gold Red Pro switch is smooth, refined, and offers a gentle typing experience with subtle resistance. It is described as polished, silky, mild, and subtle, providing a comfortable and approachable typing feel for a wide range of users. On the contrary, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch is characterized by a sharp and accented tactile bump that is prominent and snappy, offering a more intense and responsive typing experience. Additionally, the bouncy and stepped qualities of the Shadow switch provide a lively feel with distinct feedback during each keypress. Users who prefer a smooth and gentle typing experience may lean towards the Gold Red Pro, while those seeking a more tactile and responsive feel may opt for the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch.
Taking into consideration the subjective qualities of sound and feel, those seeking a versatile, neutral, and smooth typing experience may find the Gold Red Pro linear switch to be the ideal choice. It offers a harmonious sound profile and a polished, silky feel, making it suitable for various typing scenarios. Conversely, individuals looking for a tactile switch with a sharp, clacky sound and a snappy, bouncy feel may gravitate towards the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch. Both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles, providing users with unique options to enhance their typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the Gold Red Pro and the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, allowing users to customize their mechanical keyboard to suit their needs.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, consider the type of typing experience you desire. If you prefer a smooth and versatile typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the Gold Red Pro is the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you seek a tactile switch with medium-high tactility, accompanied by a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is the perfect fit. It all comes down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable and satisfying to you while typing. Ultimately, choose the switch that best aligns with your typing style and preferences.
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