TTC Gold Silver vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Silver and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two standout options are the TTC Gold Silver and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring. The TTC Gold Silver, a linear switch, is renowned for its rapid responsiveness and solid bottom-out with each keystroke. It offers a smooth journey from press to bottoming out, accompanied by a resonant sound signature, creating a seamless blend of speed, sound, and fluidity. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, a tactile switch, boasts a medium-high level of tactility with its unique two-staged spring design. Typing on these switches produces deep, resonating thocks, adding a satisfying tactile experience to each keystroke. While the Gold Silver excels in speed and precision, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring provides a tactile typing experience with satisfying 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
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
18mm spring
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
The TTC Gold Silver and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which creates a more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for use in switches with RGB lighting. However, the Gold Silver differs from the Shadow (Ink) in terms of their bottom housing materials. The Gold Silver features a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the crisper sound produced by the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink).
The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both the TTC Gold Silver and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches results in a similar sound profile characterized by sharpness and clarity. This reflects the overall impact of the top housing material on the sound when a key is released. However, the difference in bottom housing materials between the two switches showcases a distinction in sound experience when a key is pressed down. The nylon bottom housing of the Gold Silver creates a duller and rounder sound, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound upon bottom-out.
In summary, while both switches share the benefits of using polycarbonate in their top housing for a sharp and crisp sound profile, the variation in their bottom housing materials results in a different typing experience. The TTC Gold Silver with its nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, contrasting with the sharper sound produced by the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch. These differences highlight the impact of housing materials on the overall sound and feel of mechanical switches.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch are quite different. The Gold Silver switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch's 55 grams. The bottom out force of the Gold Silver switch is unknown, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch has a higher bottom out force of 63 grams. This means that the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch provides a heavier typing experience compared to the Gold Silver switch. Some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Gold Silver switch for longer typing sessions, while others may opt for the heavier push feel of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, it is clear that the Gold Silver has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Gold Silver would be favored by those seeking a faster response time, such as gamers, due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring may appeal to individuals who prefer a deeper key press sensation. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Gold Silver being slightly shorter and the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring being slightly longer. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for key press depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Silver 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 Silver 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 TTC Gold Silver is characterized by a thocky, low-pitched sound profile that is neutral in nature. The deep, rich sound produced when pressing the keys delivers a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch emits a clacky, high-pitched sound when activated, adding a sharp and crisp element to the typing experience. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the mellower tones of the Gold Silver or the bright, percussive sound of the Shadow switch.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the TTC Gold Silver offers a polished, silky typing experience that is both smooth and refined. With a mild and subtle tactile response, this switch provides a gentle typing feel suitable for most users. Conversely, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch boasts a sharp, accented tactility that delivers a strong and crisp tactile bump with each keypress. The snappy and bouncy nature of these switches, enhanced by the dual-spring design, gives users a responsive and elastic feedback sensation, making typing a lively experience.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch offer contrasting experiences in terms of sound and feel. While the Gold Silver provides a neutral, low-pitched thocky sound and a polished, silky typing feel, the Shadow switch produces a clacky, high-pitched sound with sharp tactility and a snappy, bouncy sensation. Depending on individual preferences for sound, tactility, and overall typing experience, users can choose between these two switches to achieve their desired feel and sound profile.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, consider the specific qualities and preferences you value in a mechanical keyboard switch. If you prioritize rapid responsiveness, a smooth keystroke experience, and a thocky, low-pitched sound profile, the Gold Silver switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility, deep thocky sound, and a sharp, clacky, high-pitched sound profile, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your individual typing style and what qualities you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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