Jerrzi Honey Bean vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Honey Bean and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Jerrzi Honey Bean and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring stand out as popular options. The Honey Bean switch offers a smooth and silent linear action, making it ideal for environments where noise reduction is important. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch provides a medium-high level of tactility with deep thocks and a unique two-staged spring design. The Honey Bean switch is often described as easy-to-press, feathery, and muted, while the Shadow switch is characterized as clacky, high-pitched, sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped. Each switch has its own distinct advantages, but ultimately the choice comes down to personal preference. 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
42g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
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 Jerrzi Honey Bean and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches offer distinct differences in sound profiles. The POM top and bottom housings of the Honey Bean create a deeper and more muted sound, which can be pleasing to some users. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top and bottom housings of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile that is more resonant. The use of polycarbonate in the Shadow (Ink) switch results in a more defined and clear sound, particularly noticeable when typing.
In terms of aesthetics, the translucency of polycarbonate in the Shadow (Ink) switch allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the keyboard setup. This is a feature that the POM housings of the Honey Bean lack, as they do not offer the same level of clarity or light transmission. While both materials have their own unique sound profiles, users who prioritize visual customization and RGB lighting may find the polycarbonate housings of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring more appealing.
Although the housing materials of the Jerrzi Honey Bean and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches differ in their sound characteristics, they both aim to enhance the overall typing experience. Both POM and polycarbonate materials offer their own advantages, with POM providing a deeper and more muted sound while polycarbonate delivers a crisper and sharper typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference in sound, feel, and aesthetic considerations such as RGB lighting compatibility.
Weight
The Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams compared to the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams. However, the bottom out force for the Honey Bean is unknown, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch has a bottom out force of 63 grams. The lighter actuation force of the Honey Bean may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming, while the heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch may be more suitable for those who prefer a more substantial and tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The difference in travel distance between these two switches may not be significant to some users, but for those who are more sensitive to key travel, it could make a noticeable impact on their typing or gaming experience. Generally, a shorter travel distance is preferred for faster response times, while a longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the Honey Bean and Shadow (Ink) switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and response time.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jerrzi Honey Bean has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Honey Bean for $3.59.
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 Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch is known for its muted operation, offering a softer and quieter typing experience compared to regular or clacky switches. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch produces a sharp, clacky sound with a high-pitched tone, providing a vibrant and percussive typing sound. The choice between the two switches in terms of sound will depend on personal preference for a quieter or more vibrant typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch is described as easy-to-press and feathery, offering gentle resistance during key presses with minimal force required to activate. This contributes to a low-impact and effortless typing experience, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch is known for its sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped feel, providing a high feedback intensity with a lively and responsive typing experience. The decision between the two switches in terms of feel will depend on preference for a light and easy-to-press switch or a more tactile and responsive one.
Overall, if a quieter typing experience with light and linear key presses is preferred, the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if a more vibrant and tactile typing experience with sharp feedback and distinct keypresses is desired, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch would be the recommended option. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience based on individual needs and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, consider the environment in which you will be using them. If you prioritize a silent typing experience and work in a shared space like an office, the Honey Bean switches would be ideal for their light and linear action, perfect for minimizing noise. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium-high level of tactility and appreciate a deeper, resonating sound while typing, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches with their two-staged spring would be a great fit. Ultimately, your choice should be based on your preference for a quiet and smooth typing experience with the Honey Bean or a tactile and responsive typing feel with the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring.
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