Gateron Ink Box Black vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring are two popular options with distinct qualities. The Ink Box Black is a linear switch that is highly regarded for its incredibly smooth and creamy feel. Its sound signature is reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken, giving it a unique character. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is a tactile switch that offers a medium-high level of tactility, thanks to its long, two-staged spring. Typing on these switches produces deep, resonating thocks, which add to the overall typing experience. Both switches share some similarities, such as being categorized as clacky and high-pitched, but they also have their unique qualities. However, let's delve deeper into their characteristics beyond these generalities so that you can make an informed decision 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
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
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
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, both switches have distinct characteristics. The Ink Box Black utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. Users often describe it as clacky. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring features a polycarbonate top and bottom housing. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it particularly suited for switches with RGB lighting.
While the Ink Box Black and the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring differ in terms of housing materials, they do share similar characteristics. Both switches prioritize a thinner and higher-pitched sound profile, avoiding excessively sharp or harsh tones. Additionally, the use of proprietary blends or polycarbonate lends a desirable clacky and resonant sound to the switches. These similarities ensure that users can enjoy comparable results in terms of sound experience when using either switch.
It's worth noting that the bottom and top housings play different roles in determining the sound and feel of a switch. The qualities of the bottom housing are more prominent when a key is bottomed out, contributing to the overall impact and sound. Conversely, the top housing has a greater influence on the sound produced when releasing a key. Understanding this distinction allows users to appreciate how the housing materials of each switch shape their typing experience and sound feedback. Whether it's the Gateron Ink Box Black or the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, the housing materials contribute to the overall character of the switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, it becomes evident that they both offer similar results in terms of weight. The Ink Box Black has a slightly heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's 55 grams, making it mildly lighter. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Ink Box Black requires a higher force of 70 grams, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring only needs 63 grams, making the former slightly heavier in this aspect.
Considering the weight of these switches, those who prefer a lighter typing experience or need to type for extended periods may find the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring more suitable due to its lighter actuation force. This makes it ideal for situations such as bringing a keyboard to work or engaging in marathon gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who prioritize a stronger push feel and desire a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Ink Box Black, which offers a slightly heavier actuation force. This can provide a satisfying tactile response during typing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience one seeks to achieve.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, we can observe some differences. The Ink Box Black has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Ink Box Black. The 4.0 mm travel distance of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring falls within the most traditional range, while the 3.6 mm travel distance of the Ink Box Black is on the shorter side. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Ink Box Black, as it allows for quicker keystrokes. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more sturdy feel and a bit more depth to their keystrokes may opt for the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring with its slightly longer travel distance. Both switches offer their unique advantages, and the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing experience desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Box Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Box Black for $7.65.
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 Box Black switches are known for their smooth and creamy feel. When typing on these switches, there is a distinct lack of any friction or resistance, resulting in an exceptionally smooth typing experience. This smoothness is attributed to the switch's silky and polished characteristics, which enhance the overall feel and minimize any resistance when pressing and releasing keys. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches offer a different tactile experience. These switches are described as sharp, accentuated, snappy, bouncy, and stepped. The strong and crisp tactile bump of the Shadow switches is prominent and can be distinctly felt with each keypress, providing a medium-high level of tactility. Additionally, the longer, two-staged springs in the Shadow switches contribute to their snappy and bouncy qualities, making the typing experience feel more alive. Overall, while the Ink Box Black switches focus on providing a smooth and polished feel, the Shadow switches prioritize a sharper and more pronounced tactile feedback.
Moving on to sound, both the Ink Box Black and Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches fall under the clacky and high-pitched categories. A clacky switch produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, which can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. These switches are known for their distinct and prominent sound. Additionally, the high-pitched nature of both these switches contributes to a sharp and crisp sound when typing. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps in use. Therefore, to achieve the desired sound profile, it is essential to consider these additional variables.
Based on the information provided, the Gateron Ink Box Black and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches offer different subjective qualities in both sound and feel. The Ink Box Black switches excel in providing a smooth and polished feel, with a sound similar to that of a spray paint can being shaken. On the other hand, the Shadow switches prioritize a sharper and more pronounced tactile feedback, accompanied by a deep and resonating "thock" sound when typing. While the exact sound and feel of each switch may vary depending on factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps, these descriptions provide a general understanding of the qualities one can expect from each switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preferences in terms of the desired feel and sound profile.
Conclusion
To summarize, if you are looking for a smooth and creamy linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Gateron Ink Box Black would be an excellent choice for you. Not only does it offer a silky and polished feel, but it also produces a clacky and high-pitched sound when pressed, reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium bottom out force and a medium-high level of tactility, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is perfect for you. It has a sharp and accented tactile bump with a snappy and bouncy feel. Additionally, it delivers deep and resonating thocks when typing. Both switches have a similar clacky and high-pitched sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch will depend on your preference for linearity or tactility, as well as the desired force and sound characteristics.
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