TTC Gold Silver vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Silver and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Gold Silver, a linear switch, to the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, a tactile switch, we see distinct differences in their characteristics. The Gold Silver is renowned for its rapid responsiveness, offering a shortened travel distance that results in a decisive and solid bottom-out with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring provides a more tactile experience with a medium level of tactility and a lower actuation force. While the Gold Silver boasts a polished, thocky sound signature and smooth keystrokes, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offers a bouncy feel with a deep and thocky sound profile. These differences make each switch unique in their own way, catering to different preferences in typing experience. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Silver and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This material choice creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. However, the Gold Silver also incorporates a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's polycarbonate bottom housing. This contrast highlights how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of a switch.
Furthermore, the aesthetics of the switches are also affected by the housing materials used. The translucent nature of polycarbonate in both the Gold Silver and the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switches. However, the use of nylon in the Gold Silver's bottom housing may give it a slightly different appearance compared to the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, which has uniform polycarbonate housings. This distinction showcases how housing materials not only impact the sound profile but also play a role in the overall design and look of mechanical switches.
Overall, while both the TTC Gold Silver and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches share the use of polycarbonate for their top housings, the difference in bottom housing materials sets them apart in terms of sound and feel. The Gold Silver's incorporation of nylon in the bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's all-polycarbonate construction produces a sharper and crisper sound. These variations demonstrate how housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience and aesthetics of mechanical switches.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, it is evident that the Gold Silver requires a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Shadow (Ink) at 48 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Shadow (Ink) is 55 grams, while that of the Gold Silver is unknown. The Gold Silver switch provides a more lightweight typing experience, ideal for prolonged use during work or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) switch offers a slightly heavier feel, giving users a more substantial typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preference for a lighter or heavier actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has a longer travel distance compared to the Gold Silver. The 0.5 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can make a noticeable difference in the typing or gaming experience. The Gold Silver's shorter travel distance may appeal to those looking for a quicker response time, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying typing or gaming feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for travel distance.
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) 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 Silver linear switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and rich auditory experience that resonates with each key press. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is praised for its deep and thocky sound production, making it a satisfying option for those who enjoy a resonant sound profile. Both switches offer a pleasant auditory experience, with the Gold Silver leaning towards a neutral sound and the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring focusing on a deep and thocky tone.
Moving on to the feel, the TTC Gold Silver switch boasts a polished and silky typing experience, presenting a smooth and refined key travel that minimizes friction and enhances fluidity. With a mild and subtle tactile response, the Gold Silver switch offers a gentle typing experience suitable for a wide range of users. Conversely, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is characterized by its bouncy feedback, providing a lively and spring-like sensation that adds an element of rebound to each keystroke. While the Gold Silver emphasizes smoothness and refinement, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring focuses on a more dynamic and responsive tactile feel.
In conclusion, both the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. The Gold Silver excels in delivering a swift and precise typing experience with a polished and silky feel, complemented by a thocky and low-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring stands out for its approachable tactility and bouncy feedback, accompanied by a deep and thocky sound signature. Whether you prioritize speed and smoothness or prefer a tactile and dynamic typing experience, both switches provide excellent options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Gold Silver linear switch or the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences and typing style. If you prioritize rapid responsiveness, a precise keystroke feeling, and a resonant sound signature, the Gold Silver may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light tactile switch with approachable tactility, a thocky sound profile, and a bouncy key feel, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring could be the better option. Consider the characteristics of each switch in terms of sound and feel to determine which one aligns best with your typing preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience based on your individual needs and preferences.
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