Gateron Ink Box Black vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Aflion Thunder Shadow mechanical keyboard switches, you have two distinct options to consider. The Gateron Ink Box Black is a linear switch known for its incredibly smooth and creamy feel, accompanied by a sound signature reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken. In contrast, the Aflion Thunder Shadow is a tactile switch from a rising star in the industry, Aflion, offering a pronounced tactile bump and a harmoniously balanced medium weight feel. While the Ink Box Black falls under the categories of 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Silky', and 'Polished', the Thunder Shadow is characterized as 'Invigorating' and 'Neutral'. Ultimately, each switch has its own unique qualities that may appeal to different preferences, but 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Box Black features a proprietary INK blend top housing that produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile, described as clacky. In comparison, the Aflion Thunder Shadow utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While both materials offer a satisfying sound, the INK blend may provide a slightly softer sound compared to the more resonant sound of polycarbonate. Additionally, the clear polycarbonate housing of the Thunder Shadow allows for RGB lighting, making it ideal for a more visually dynamic setup.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Gateron Ink Box Black and Aflion Thunder Shadow differ once again. The INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Box Black contributes to its high-pitched and clacky sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing of the Thunder Shadow provides a deeper and fuller sound experience. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound produced by the INK blend. This contrast showcases how bottom housing material can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of a switch.
Overall, while the Gateron Ink Box Black and Aflion Thunder Shadow offer distinct housing materials that contribute to their unique sound profiles, each switch provides a satisfying typing experience. The INK blend top housing of the Ink Box Black may offer a softer sound compared to the crisper sound of the polycarbonate top housing of the Thunder Shadow. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the Thunder Shadow creates a deeper sound compared to the higher-pitched sound of the INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Box Black. Both switches demonstrate how different housing materials can impact the acoustics and tactile feedback of a keyboard switch.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, it is evident that the Ink Box Black has a higher actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Thunder Shadow's unknown actuation force. Both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Ink Box Black requiring 70 grams and the Thunder Shadow needing 63.5 grams. This makes the Thunder Shadow the lighter option in terms of actuation force, while both switches are considered medium-heavy when it comes to bottom out force. The weight of a switch is an important factor to consider, as a lighter switch can be more comfortable for prolonged typing sessions, while a heavier switch provides a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, slightly longer than the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch with a 3.5 mm travel distance. While both switches fall on the shorter end of the spectrum compared to the traditional 4.0 mm travel distance, the slight difference in distance may be noticeable to some users. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance offered by the Thunder Shadow, while those who enjoy a greater sense of depth and feedback may opt for the slightly longer travel distance of the Ink Box Black. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing styles.
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 Thunder Shadow has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Thunder Shadow for $3.91.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch produces a clacky and high-pitched noise when pressed, reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile, which is suitable for a variety of uses. Both switches can provide different auditory experiences depending on factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch provides a silky and polished typing experience, offering a smooth and refined finish with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. In contrast, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch is described as invigorating, offering pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a reactive feel for an immersive typing sensation. Both switches offer unique tactile sensations that cater to different preferences in typing feel.
Overall, if you prefer a smoother and more refined typing experience with a sharper sound, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch may be the right choice for you. However, if you prefer a tactile switch with pronounced feedback and a neutral sound profile, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch could be the better option. It's important to consider your personal preferences and typing style when choosing between these two switches to ensure a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, consider your preferences for bottom-out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a slightly heavier actuation force and a smoother, more polished typing experience, the Gateron Ink Box Black may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force with a pronounced tactile bump and a harmonious balance overall, the Aflion Thunder Shadow could be the ideal option. Additionally, if you prefer a clacky, high-pitched sound profile, the Ink Box Black may be more to your liking, while if you prefer a neutral sound profile, the Thunder Shadow may be the way to go. Ultimately, consider your personal preferences for typing experience and sound when making your decision between these two switches.
Mentioned in this article
