Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, two mechanical keyboard switches with their own unique characteristics. The Ink Black V2 is a linear switch that has gained immense popularity within the community over time. Known for its smooth downstroke and satisfying clack, it offers a classic and reliable typing experience. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is a tactile switch that stands out for its moderate level of tactility. A favorite amongst those seeking a tactile switch, it boasts a lower actuation and bottom-out force, providing an easily discernible tactile feel. Additionally, its deep and thocky sound profile adds a touch of auditory pleasure to your typing experience. However, beyond these generalities, let's dive in a bit deeper to help you make the best decision when choosing your ideal switch.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Ink Black V2 utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend for both the top and bottom housings, which creates a pointed and relatively high-pitched, yet not overly sharp sound profile. This gives the switch a satisfying clacky sound. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring features a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate leads to a clear and resonant sound. However, both switches provide thin and higher-pitched sound characteristics, albeit with slight differences due to the varying housing materials.
In terms of aesthetics, the Ink Black V2's top housing, which is made from Gateron's proprietary INK blend, lacks translucency. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offers a clear housing, making it suitable for those planning to utilize RGB lighting. This allows for enhanced visual effects through the transparent top housing. Additionally, the bottom housing of both switches retains the same characteristics as their respective top housings. Therefore, if one prefers a switch with a clear housing for RGB lighting purposes, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring would be the more suitable choice.
When it comes to the feel and sound when pressing and releasing a key, the bottom housing of the switches plays a more significant role. The qualities of the bottom housing affect the bottom-out sound and feel, providing a tactile feedback when a key is fully pressed down. On the other hand, the top housing influences the sound when a key is released, offering a distinct auditory experience. While the housing materials differ between the Ink Black V2 and the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, the overall impact on the pressing and releasing experience may be quite similar due to the shared characteristics of both switches' top and bottom housings.
Overall, while there are differences between the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches, such as the use of proprietary INK blend versus polycarbonate, they ultimately provide similar thin and higher-pitched sound profiles. The choice between the two would depend on personal preference for aesthetics, with the Ink Black V2 being more suitable for those who prioritize a clacky sound without RGB lighting, and the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offering a clear housing for enhanced visual effects. Additionally, both switches offer a tactile feedback that is influenced more by the bottom housing, while the top housing contributes to the sound when releasing a key.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, there are noticeable differences. The Ink Black V2 has a slightly heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's lighter actuation force of 48 grams. This means that the Ink Black V2 requires a bit more force to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Ink Black V2 is also slightly heavier with a bottom out force of 70 grams, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams. This indicates that the Ink Black V2 provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, whereas the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offers a lighter typing experience. Both switches fall within the medium range in terms of heaviness, but the Ink Black V2 leans towards a medium-heavy feel while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring leans towards a medium-light feel. This difference in weight can be beneficial for different preferences and use cases. Those who prefer a lighter switch may opt for the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. On the other hand, individuals who desire a more substantial and tactile typing experience may lean towards the Ink Black V2. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches offer distinct options to cater to different preferences and typing needs.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This ensures a consistent and familiar tactile feedback for users of both switches. Whether you choose the Gateron Ink Black V2 or the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance.
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) 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
The Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch is best known for its smooth downstroke and rich clack sound. The sound profile of the Ink Black V2 is low-pitched, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone during key presses. It also has a deep and rich sound, resembling the depth associated with bass tones. Additionally, this switch has a unique chirpy characteristic, adding a subtle squeak to the sound. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is known for its medium level of tactility and deep thocky sound profile. Unfortunately, detailed information about the sound of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is not provided. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycap choices.
In terms of feel, the Ink Black V2 is described as offering a mild and polished experience. This means that it provides a gentle typing experience without pronounced characteristics. The sound and feel of these switches are approachable to most, as they stand within a safe middle-ground zone. Additionally, the Ink Black V2 has a polished finish, resulting in smooth and refined key travel with reduced friction. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation. When pressed, these keys offer a lively feel and rebound.
In summary, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch offer different qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ink Black V2 provides a smooth downstroke, rich clack sound, and a mild and polished typing experience. It has a low-pitched, bass-heavy sound profile with a unique chirpy characteristic. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch offers a medium level of tactility, a deep thocky sound profile (specific details unknown), and a bouncy feel with rebound. While these switches have distinct characteristics, it is important to consider other factors such as keyboard board and keycap choices, as they also influence the overall sound and feel. Overall, both switches can provide satisfying experiences, albeit with their own unique qualities.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy switch with a smooth downstroke and rich clack, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch would be an excellent choice. It offers a sturdy tactile experience with a bottom out force of 70 grams. Additionally, its low-pitched, bassy, and chirpy sound profile adds an enjoyable auditory dimension to your typing experience. The Ink Black V2 is also described as mild and polished, providing a gentle and refined typing feel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility and a lower actuation and bottom-out force, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is highly recommended. It offers a very approachable tactility and a deep, thocky sound profile. The Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch has a bottom-out force of 55 grams and provides a bouncy and lively feel, delivering a spring-like feedback sensation.
Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your personal preferences. If you prioritize a smoother linear switch with a heavier feel and a rich sound profile, the Gateron Ink Black V2 would be a great fit. However, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-light feel and a deep thocky sound, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch would suit you well. Consider your typing style, desired level of tactility, and sound preference when making your decision. Happy typing!
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