Huano Grape Orange vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring

Overview

When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Huano Grape Orange and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring each offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Grape Orange, a linear switch, is celebrated for its exceptionally light 40g actuation force, providing an effortless typing experience that makes it an excellent choice for those who engage in long typing sessions. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring presents a tactile experience with its medium-high tactility and notable deep thock sound, appealing to users who enjoy feedback with each keystroke and desire a more pronounced typing sensation. While the Grape Orange excels in smoothness and ease, the Shadow switch captivates with its tactile feedback and auditory presence. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.

By the numbers

Huano Grape Orange Linear

Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring Tactile

$3.00

$2.79 per 10

$4.50

$3.57 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Huano Grape Orange and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in distinctly sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profiles. This similar choice in material ensures that each switch delivers a clear and resonant sound when pressed, enhancing the overall acoustic experience. Polycarbonate's stiffer characteristics allow for the production of a sound that's not only pleasant but also effective in showcasing RGB lighting, as its translucency complements lighting elements beautifully. As a result, users of both switches can expect a comparable auditory performance, particularly during the key's disengagement.

However, the differences emerge in the composition of the bottom housings. The Huano Grape Orange features a nylon bottom housing, a classic choice that fosters a fuller and deeper sound profile. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring employs a polycarbonate bottom housing, mirroring its top housing's properties. Consequently, the Grape Orange's nylon bottom adds a rounder sound profile that absorbs sound more effectively compared to the sharper tone produced by the Shadow's polycarbonate bottom. This fundamental difference suggests that while both switches may exhibit similarities in their upper regions, they will likely diverge in auditory depth and resonance based on their respective bottom housing materials.

Ultimately, the interplay between the materials in both switches leads to distinct keypress experiences. The Huano Grape Orange, with its nylon bottom, excels in providing a profound and softer bottom-out sound, appealing to users who prefer a more muted typing experience. Conversely, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring maintains the crisp character through its polycarbonate bottom, which reinforces the high-pitched clarity established by its top housing. This variation in auditory characteristics emphasizes the importance of housing materials and ensures that despite the similar top constructions, the switches cater to different typing preferences and sound profiles.

Weight

The Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch exhibit notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces, impacting the overall typing experience. The Grape Orange boasts a light actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons without causing fatigue. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) switch requires a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, catering to users who prefer a more substantial push feel and tactile feedback. Consequently, those who favor a lighter feel would gravitate toward the Grape Orange, while users seeking more resistance and weight in their keystrokes would likely choose the Shadow (Ink) switch. The differences in these forces highlight the unique preferences and needs of users when selecting their ideal switch, ensuring that both options offer distinct experiences based on typing style and comfort.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Grape Orange features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has a longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This means that gamers or users who favor quicker response times may find the shorter travel distance of the Grape Orange more appealing, as it can facilitate faster key presses. On the other hand, the Shadow switch's longer travel distance may provide a more substantial tactile experience, which can be preferred by those who enjoy a deeper key feel. Ultimately, if you desire a more responsive feel, the Grape Orange is the better choice with its shorter 3.6 mm travel distance compared to the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's 4.0 mm.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Grape Orange switch remains somewhat unspecified; therefore, it's challenging to characterize how it stands out in the auditory spectrum. However, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring clearly offers a high-pitched sound, noted for its sharp and crisp auditory feedback. This can be particularly appealing to users who prefer a more articulate acoustics profile rather than deeper, bass-heavy sounds. When paired with certain boards and keycaps, the Shadow switches can produce deep, resonant thocks, which further enhance the overall typing experience. While the Grape Orange's sound quality is not detailed, it can be assumed that it may resonate differently depending on your custom setup.

When it comes to feel, the Grape Orange is known for providing an exceptionally light typing experience, with a notably low actuation force of 40g which allows for rapid key presses, making it ideal for extensive typing sessions. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring boasts a robust tactile experience characterized by its medium-high tactility. The distinct sharp tactile bump provides strong feedback during each keystroke, coupled with a snappy responsiveness that adds an element of liveliness to the typing experience. Furthermore, the accentuated nature of the tactile bump ensures it's neither overwhelming nor subtle, providing just the right balance for users who appreciate defined feedback without feeling overloaded.

In conclusion, when comparing the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, each offers distinct auditory and tactile characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Grape Orange provides an effortless typing experience, ideal for those prioritizing light actuation, while the Shadow switch excels in tactile feedback and auditory richness. Depending on your typing style and preferences, choosing between these switches comes down to what aspects you value most in your mechanical keyboard experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch ultimately comes down to your specific typing preferences and use cases. If you value a light and effortless typing experience, especially during long hours of use, then the Grape Orange is likely the better option for you. Its low actuation force makes typing a breeze, allowing for speed and comfort without much exertion. This switch is ideal if you prioritize smoothness and minimal finger fatigue over tactile feedback, making it great for typing assignments or when rapid keystrokes are essential. On the other hand, if you appreciate tactile feedback and a more pronounced typing experience, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring will be more to your liking. With its medium actuation force and sharp tactile bump, this switch provides a satisfying "thock" sound and a lively feel, making it excellent for both typing and gaming, where responsiveness is key. In essence, your choice should reflect whether you prefer a casual, lightweight typing environment with the Grape Orange or a more engaging, tactile experience with the Shadow (Ink).

Mentioned in this article

Huano Grape Orange Linear

$3.00

$2.79 per 10

Learn more

Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring Tactile

$4.50

$3.57 per 10

Learn more