Dareu Holly vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the Dareu Holly and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Holly and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring mechanical keyboard switches, it becomes apparent that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Holly stands out with its medium 50g actuation force and a sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements, providing a balanced and distinctive typing experience. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch from Aflion offers a medium level of tactility with a lower actuation and bottom-out force, making it very approachable for those seeking a tactile typing experience. While the Holly is known for its 'Chirpy', 'Clacky', 'Neutral' characteristics, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is categorized as 'Bouncy'. 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
50g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
The key difference between the Dareu Holly and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring lies in their housing materials. The Holly features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharp, high-pitched sound profile ideal for RGB lighting setups. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring also has a polycarbonate top housing, offering a similar crisp and resonant sound quality. However, the Holly's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, while the Shadow's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper sound profile.
Although both switches share a polycarbonate top housing, the contrasting bottom housing materials make for a noticeable difference in sound and feel. The nylon bottom housing of the Holly absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile when typing. Meanwhile, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring maintains a clear and resonant sound profile. This discrepancy showcases how housing materials can significantly impact the overall typing experience and sound quality of a switch.
When comparing these two switches, it's essential to consider how the housing materials affect the typing experience. While the Holly's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper sound, the polycarbonate top housing of both switches contributes to a sharper, crisper sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the Dareu Holly and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring will depend on personal preference regarding sound characteristics and aesthetics, highlighting the importance of housing materials in keyboard switches.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Holly has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Shadow's 48 grams, making the Holly a tad heavier. However, the bottom out force of the Shadow is 55 grams, indicating a medium-light resistance when fully pressed, while the bottom out force of the Holly is unknown, making it difficult to gauge its overall weight. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Shadow may be the better choice due to its lower actuation force. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial push feel may lean towards the Holly, despite the unknown bottom out force. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing or gaming comfort.
Travel distance
Both the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will get a similar tactile sensation and feedback. Both switches offer a satisfying travel distance for typing or gaming purposes, providing a consistent experience for users. Having the same travel distance can make it easier for users to switch between different keyboards without having to adjust their typing technique. Overall, whether using the Dareu Holly or the Aflion Shadow (Ink) tactile switch, you can expect a comfortable typing experience with a 4mm travel distance.
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) 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 comparing the sound qualities of the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, the Holly stands out for its unique combination of chirpy and clacky elements, offering users a balanced and distinctive typing experience. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is noted for its deep and thocky sound profile, providing a satisfying auditory feedback during typing sessions. Both switches offer different sound profiles that cater to varying preferences, with the Holly having a more distinctive sound signature while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch provides a deeper and more substantial sound.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Dareu Holly switch does not have specific descriptions available, making it harder to directly compare to the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch which is described as bouncy. The bouncy feel of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch gives users a spring-like and lively feedback sensation, providing a sense of rebound when the keys are pressed. This tactile feedback can enhance the typing experience for users who prefer a more responsive and energetic feel to their switches.
In conclusion, the Dareu Holly and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switches offer users different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Holly switch provides a unique combination of chirpy and clacky sounds for a distinctive typing experience, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch offers a deep and thocky sound profile along with a bouncy and lively feel. Choosing between the two switches ultimately depends on individual preference for sound and feel, as both can deliver a satisfactory typing experience depending on the user's preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, consider the factors that matter most to you. If you prioritize a unique sound profile that combines chirpy and clacky elements, along with a medium actuation force, then the Holly switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a more approachable tactility, a lower actuation and bottom-out force, and a deep thocky sound profile, then the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing experience, sound, and feel.
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