Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the Gateron Ink Black V2, a linear switch, and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, a tactile switch, both offering unique characteristics for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Ink Black V2 stands out with its smooth downstroke and satisfying clack, making it a long-time community favorite. Categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Bassy', 'Chirpy', 'Mild', and 'Polished', this switch provides a classic linear experience. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring boasts a medium-high level of tactility, perfect for those seeking a tactile switch. With its long, two-staged spring, it offers deep resonating thocks that elevate typing experiences. Categorized as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Sharp', 'Accented', 'Snappy', 'Bouncy', and 'Stepped', this switch ensures a unique and satisfying tactile feedback. 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
60g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Black V2 and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches differ in terms of their housing materials. The Ink Black V2 features a proprietary INK blend top and bottom housing, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring utilizes polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing. The INK blend top housing of the Ink Black V2 is known for its pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile, described as clacky. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. If you prefer a switch with a clear housing for RGB lighting, then the polycarbonate top housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring would be a better choice.
Similarly, the INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Black V2 and the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring have distinct characteristics. The INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Black V2 produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound, similar to its top housing. In contrast, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The choice between these two housing materials depends on your preference for sound and feel. If you prioritize clarity and resonance, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring would be more suitable.
When it comes to the overall impact of the housing materials, it is worth noting that the bottom housing has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing plays a significant role in the sound when you release a key. Therefore, the differences between the INK blend and polycarbonate housing in both top and bottom can lead to varied experiences. However, if you are seeking similar results, such as a clacky and relatively high-pitched sound, both the Ink Black V2 and the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring can deliver satisfying thin and higher-pitched sounds due to their respective housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, there are noticeable differences. The Ink Black V2 has a slightly lighter actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's 55 grams. This means that the Ink Black V2 requires slightly more force to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Ink Black V2 is heavier with a bottom out force of 70 grams, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has a lower bottom out force of 63 grams. This indicates that the Ink Black V2 provides a slightly more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel.
Considering weight preferences, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring more suitable, as its actuation and bottom out forces are lower. This lighter weight allows for longer typing periods and is ideal for those who use their keyboards extensively, whether it be for work or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, for individuals who prefer a more substantial and pronounced keystroke, the Ink Black V2 would be the better choice. Its slightly higher actuation and bottom out forces provide a stronger push feel, resulting in a more satisfying typing experience. Both switches are considered medium in their respective weight categories, but the Ink Black V2 leans towards the heavier side. Therefore, depending on personal preferences, individuals can choose between the two switches to achieve the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches will provide a similar experience in terms of the distance you feel when pressing down on a key. Despite having the same travel distance, it is worth noting that the Gateron Ink Black V2 is a linear switch while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is a tactile switch. This means that the Gateron Ink Black V2 will provide a smooth and consistent keystroke without any tactile feedback, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring will offer a tactile bump during actuation. Overall, both switches offer the same travel distance but differ in terms of their switch type and resulting typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Black V2 has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Black V2 for $7.24.
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 Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch is best known for its smooth downstroke and rich clack. It has a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, which offers a mellow and deep tone during key presses. This switch also has a mild and polished feel, providing a gentle and approachable typing experience. The smooth and refined finish of the switch reduces friction and allows for smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch is best known for its medium-high level of tactility. It features a long, two-staged spring that delivers a strong and crisp tactile bump. When typing on these switches, users can enjoy the deep and resonating thocks, creating a clacky sound profile. The feel of the Shadow switch is sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped, providing a high-feedback intensity and a lively feedback sensation.
Based on the available information, the Ink Black V2 and the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ink Black V2 provides a low-pitched and bassy sound with a mild and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Shadow switch offers a clacky sound with a sharp and intense tactile feedback, along with various additional features like being snappy, bouncy, and stepped.
If you are looking for a linear switch with a smooth downstroke and rich clack, the Ink Black V2 would be a suitable choice. However, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility and deep, resonating thocks, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch would be a better option. Keep in mind that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as your choice of keyboard and keycaps.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and the typing experience you desire.
If you prefer a smooth and consistent keystroke, with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Ink Black V2 linear switch is an excellent choice. It offers a classic linear switch experience, with a smooth downstroke and a satisfying clack. The sound profile of the Ink Black V2 is described as low-pitched, bassy, and even a little chirpy, providing a deep and rich auditory experience. In terms of feel, this switch is described as mild and polished, providing a gentle and refined typing experience.
On the other hand, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is perfect for you. It features a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be distinctly felt with every keypress. The sound profile of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is described as clacky and high-pitched, offering a sharp and percussive sound. This switch is also known for its deep and resonating thocks when typing. Additionally, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch provides a range of descriptors including accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped, all contributing to a dynamic and responsive typing experience.
Ultimately, whether you prioritize smoothness and consistency or a more tactile feedback, both the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches offer their unique benefits. Consider your personal preferences for sound and feel, and choose the switch that aligns with your typing style and preferences.
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