Dareu Holly vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Dareu Holly and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Holly and Aflion Shadow Ink Double Spring mechanical keyboard switches, both offer their own unique characteristics catering to different preferences. The Holly stands out with its medium 50g actuation force and a sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements, providing users with a balanced and distinctive typing experience. On the other hand, the Shadow Ink Double Spring switch offers a medium-high level of tactility with its long, two-staged spring, delivering deep and resonating thocks while typing. While the Holly is categorized as 'chirpy', 'clacky', 'neutral', the Shadow is labeled as 'clacky', 'high-pitched', 'sharp', 'accented', 'snappy', 'bouncy', 'stepped'. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal, but diving deeper into their specifics will help you make the best decision on which switch suits your typing preferences the most.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
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
Partial box
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Dareu Holly and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring have distinct characteristics that affect the sound profile and feel of the switches. The Holly utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This material is known for its stiffness, creating a clear and resonant sound when typing. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring also features a polycarbonate top housing with similar sound characteristics. Both switches are likely to produce bright and sharp sound profiles due to the polycarbonate material used in the top housing.
In contrast, the Holly's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings may result in a duller and rounder sound compared to those with polycarbonate bottom housings. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, however, features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile. The difference in bottom housing materials between the two switches could lead to varying typing experiences in terms of sound and feel.
Overall, the combination of housing materials in a switch plays a significant role in determining the overall typing experience. While the Holly and Shadow (Ink) Double Spring both incorporate polycarbonate top housings for a similar sound profile, their differing bottom housing materials impact the overall sound and feel of the switches. The split qualities between the top and bottom housings allow for a nuanced typing experience, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, the choice between the Dareu Holly and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring will depend on personal preferences for sound and feel while typing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, there are significant differences to note. The Holly has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is slightly heavier at 55 grams. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Holly has an unknown value, whereas the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has a medium bottom out force of 63 grams. This difference in bottom out force may result in a more substantial typing experience with the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring compared to the Holly. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference, with some favoring the lighter actuation force of the Holly for extended typing sessions, while others may prefer the heavier feel of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring for a more solid typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. This can result in a similar typing experience for users who prefer a switch with a moderate amount of travel. Overall, the travel distance for both switches is equal, providing a consistent tactile feedback for users.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Holly has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Holly for $3.76.
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
When it comes to sound, the Dareu Holly tactile switch stands out for its unique combination of chirpy and clacky elements, offering a balanced and distinctive typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch produces deep, resonating thocks that provide a satisfying auditory feedback while typing. Both switches have a clacky sound profile, but the Holly switch adds a chirpy element that sets it apart. If you prefer a high-pitched, sharp sound, the Shadow switch may be the better choice.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Holly tactile switch does not have specific descriptors provided for its tactile feel. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is known for its sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped tactile characteristics. This means that the Shadow switch offers a strong and crisp tactile bump, along with a responsive and lively typing experience. If you enjoy switches with a distinct tactile feedback that is not overwhelming but still prominent, the Shadow switch could be a suitable option.
Overall, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a unique sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements, the Dareu Holly switch is a good choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-high level of tactility that produces deep, resonating thocks and has sharp, accented tactile characteristics, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch may be more suitable for your typing preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, and the decision between the two would depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, you should consider your preferences for actuation force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium actuation force with a unique chirpy and clacky sound profile, the Dareu Holly switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility and enjoy a sharp and snappy sound along with a sharp tactile bump, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is the better choice for you. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal typing preferences and what type of typing experience you are seeking.
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