TTC Honey vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the TTC Honey and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the TTC Honey and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring. The Honey switch is well-known for its smooth and creamy feel, providing a pleasant typing experience. Additionally, it features a deep and pleasant sound profile, adding to the overall satisfaction of using this switch. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is the perfect choice for those in search of a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility. Its long, two-staged spring enhances the typing experience, creating deep, resonating thocks with each key press. While the Honey switch is categorized as subdued, creamy, and frictionless, the Shadow switch falls into the clacky, high-pitched, and sharp category. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
25.5 mm lengthened spring
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Honey and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches both utilize polycarbonate for their top and bottom housings. This means that they share similar qualities in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relative stiffness, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous for those who plan to use RGB lighting in their setup.
While the housing materials are the same for both switches, it's important to note that their distribution differs. The TTC Honey has polycarbonate in both the top and bottom housings, meaning that the sound profile and aesthetic benefits will be present in both the pressing down and releasing actions of the switch. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch also features polycarbonate in both housings, but the qualities of each housing material will be split between the bottom and top of the switch. Pressing down on the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch will be influenced by the bottom housing, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will have more of an impact on the sound when releasing a key.
In conclusion, while the TTC Honey and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches both employ polycarbonate for their top and bottom housings, the distribution of the housing material differs. The similarities lie in the sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, as well as the aesthetic suitability for RGB lighting. However, the TTC Honey provides consistent qualities throughout both pressing down and releasing actions, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring separates the effects of the top and bottom housings.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Honey linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, one notable difference is in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Honey switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams, while the Shadow switch requires a slightly heavier force of 55 grams to trigger a keystroke. Similarly, when it comes to bottoming out, the Honey switch has a lighter force of 50 grams, whereas the Shadow switch requires a stronger force of 63 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Honey switch would be a suitable choice as its actuation and bottom out forces are lower than the Shadow switch. This lighter force allows for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, if one desires a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Shadow switch would be more appropriate with its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces. These heavier forces provide a tactile feedback that some users may find satisfying.
Overall, the choice between the TTC Honey linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch ultimately depends on the individual's preference for typing force. While the Honey switch offers a lighter experience, the Shadow switch provides a medium-level force for a more pronounced typing feel. Both switches offer unique experiences, allowing users to customize their keyboards to their specific needs.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Honey linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, there is a slight difference in length. The Honey has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of traditional travel distances, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring falls within the more common range of 4.0 mm. On the other hand, the Honey offers a slightly shorter travel distance. Gamers who value faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Honey. This shorter travel distance allows for quicker keystrokes, enhancing overall responsiveness. However, those who prefer a deeper and more substantial keystroke may find the longer travel distance of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring more satisfying. While both switches offer slightly different travel distances, they cater to different preferences and can provide similar results depending on individual needs.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Honey has an MSRP of $9.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Honey for $6.78.
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
The TTC Honey linear switch is best known for its smooth and creamy feel, offering a typing experience where your fingers effortlessly glide across the keys with ease. It provides a silky sensation that is like melting into each keystroke. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch offers a medium-high level of tactility with a sharp and crisp tactile bump. This switch provides a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle.
In terms of sound, the Honey switch has a subdued sound profile. Although not completely silent, it offers a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch produces a clacky and high-pitched sound. It has a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, described as crisp, bright, and percussive. If you prefer a more rich and bassy sound profile, it is advisable to choose higher-pitched switches.
Considering the feel, the Honey switch offers a creamy, fluid, and buttery typing experience. It has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. This switch provides an effortless and uniform typing sensation. On the contrary, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is sharp and accented. It has a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be distinctly felt with each keypress. Additionally, it offers a snappy and bouncy feel, providing spring-like or elastic feedback.
In conclusion, the TTC Honey linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Honey switch provides a smooth and creamy feel with a subdued sound profile, while the Shadow switch offers a medium-high level of tactility with a clacky and high-pitched sound. Each switch has its unique characteristics and can provide a satisfying typing experience depending on individual preferences. It is important to consider factors such as your choice of keyboard board and keycaps, as they can also influence the sound and feel of the switches. Ultimately, both switches can deliver enjoyable typing experiences, though with different characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a light and smooth linear switch with a pleasant sound profile, the TTC Honey would be a great choice for you. These switches offer a creamy and frictionless typing experience, with a bottom out force of 50 grams. The subdued sound they produce is perfect for shared spaces. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-high level of tactility and enjoy a sharp and snappy sound when typing, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch is the way to go. With a bottom out force of 63 grams, these switches feature a long, two-staged spring that provides a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming. They offer a clacky and high-pitched sound profile that is crisp and bright. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your specific preferences for force, feel, and sound.
Mentioned in this article
