TTC Gold Red vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red 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 offer distinct typing experiences are the TTC Gold Red and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring. The Gold Red is a linear switch that provides a buttery smooth typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance. Its snappy sound profile adds a modest touch of personality to your keyboard without being too ostentatious. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is a tactile switch that offers a medium level of tactility. With a lower actuation and bottom-out force, it provides a very approachable tactility when typing. Additionally, it features a deep and thocky sound profile. Both switches have their own unique qualities, making them suitable for different preferences and typing styles. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Standard
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 Red and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring share similarities in terms of their sound profiles due to the use of polycarbonate. Both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is attributed to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which creates a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, providing an aesthetically pleasing effect. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and lighting capabilities from both the Gold Red and the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring.
However, the two switches differ in their choice of bottom housing material. The Gold Red incorporates a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, complementing the properties of the top housing. This further enhances the switch's clear and resonant sound profile. While the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, the Gold Red and the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring differ in terms of their bottom housing materials, with the former utilizing nylon and the latter featuring polycarbonate. This distinction leads to variations in the resulting sound profile, with the Gold Red offering a deeper and fuller sound due to its nylon bottom housing, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring produces a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate bottom housing. However, both switches share similar qualities in their top housing, thanks to the use of polycarbonate. Therefore, users can expect good sound quality and aesthetics, particularly when utilizing RGB lighting, from both options.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, it is evident that they differ slightly in terms of weight. The TTC Gold Red linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 48 grams. Similarly, when it comes to bottom out force, the TTC Gold Red requires a force of 50 grams while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch requires a force of 55 grams.
Considering the weight aspect, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the TTC Gold Red switch, as it allows for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. This lightweight characteristic makes it suitable for various purposes, such as bringing it to work or engaging in prolonged gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who seek a more substantial typing experience may prefer the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch due to its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces. These heavier forces provide a more pronounced push feel, resulting in a tactile and satisfying typing experience.
Overall, while the TTC Gold Red switch leans towards the lighter end of the force spectrum, providing a comfortable typing experience, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch offers a medium-light weight, striking a balance between ease of use and a more forceful typing feel. Thus, depending on personal preferences, both switches provide their respective advantages, ensuring that individuals can find a switch that suits their specific needs.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience the same distance of travel. Both switches offer a comfortable and consistent key press feel, ensuring a satisfying typing experience. Regardless of whether you choose the TTC Gold Red linear switch or the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red for $3.28.
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
When it comes to sound, the TTC Gold Red linear switch offers a low-pitched and thocky sound profile. This means that when the keys are pressed and released, you can expect a deep, rich, and satisfying sound. It is not too overpowering or loud, making it suitable for various settings. On the other hand, information on the sound profile of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is not provided. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
In terms of feel, the TTC Gold Red switch provides a mild and silky typing experience. With its mild characteristics and silky smoothness, this switch offers a gentle typing feel that is approachable to most users. The switch is designed to minimize resistance when pressing and releasing keys, resulting in an overall polished and refined typing experience. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is described as bouncy. This indicates that the keys have a lively and spring-like feel, providing a rebound effect when pressed. This bouncy feedback adds an extra level of responsiveness to the typing experience.
Considering all available information, the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch offer different subjective qualities. The Gold Red switch provides a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, as well as a mild, silky, and polished feel. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) switch offers a tactile feel with a bouncy sensation. If you are looking for a smoother and more refined typing experience with a deep sound profile, the Gold Red switch would be a suitable choice. If you prefer a switch with tactile feedback and a bouncier feel, the Shadow (Ink) switch would be a great option. Keep in mind that individual preferences and the overall keyboard setup can also influence the final typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and light typing experience with a touch of personality, the TTC Gold Red linear switch is a great choice for you. These switches offer a buttery smooth feel with a light-medium level of resistance. They also have a snappy sound profile that adds a modest touch of personality to your keyboard. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with medium tactility, we highly recommend the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring. These switches have a medium level of tactility, offering a very approachable typing experience. They also feature a deep and thocky sound profile. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference. If you prioritize smoothness and a light typing feel, go with the Gold Red. If you prefer a tactile feedback and a deeper sound profile, go with the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring.
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