Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Gateron Ink Box Pink is best known for its smoothness and lighter typing feel, making it a great option for those who value a smooth and effortless typing experience. Additionally, the higher-pitched clack produced by these switches adds a touch of elegance to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is renowned for its medium-high tactility, thanks to its long, two-staged spring. This makes it a perfect choice for individuals who crave that satisfying tactile feedback with every keypress. Furthermore, the deep and resonating thocks produced while typing on these switches adds an extra layer of satisfaction to the typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
The Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring have contrasting housing materials. The Ink Box Pink utilizes a proprietary INK blend top and bottom housing, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring features polycarbonate top and bottom housings. The INK blend of the Ink Box Pink results in a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is described as clacky. On the other hand, the polycarbonate housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This difference in materials leads to distinct auditory experiences when typing on these switches.
Aesthetically speaking, the Ink Box Pink's top and bottom housings blend seamlessly together due to utilizing the same proprietary INK blend. This results in consistent sound characteristics throughout the keystroke, including both pressing down and releasing a key. Conversely, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's utilization of polycarbonate housing in both the top and bottom creates a unified clarity in sound while maintaining a higher pitch. The translucent nature of polycarbonate also makes it especially suitable for switches intended to be used with RGB lighting, as it allows the illumination to shine through for a visually appealing effect.
Despite their differences in housing materials, both switches ultimately offer similar characteristics in terms of sound profile. The proprietary INK blend in the Ink Box Pink and the polycarbonate housing in the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring are both known for producing a high-pitched and crisp sound. While the specific qualities of the sound may differ slightly due to the properties of the materials, users can expect a satisfying and clacky typing experience from either switch. Therefore, individuals seeking a switch with these sound attributes can achieve similar results with either the Ink Box Pink or the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, depending on their preference for housing material and aesthetics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, we can observe some similarities and differences. In terms of weight, the Ink Box Pink is on the lighter side with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, both falling within the medium range. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has slightly heavier forces, with an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, also falling within the medium range. While the forces of both switches are similar and fall within the same general range, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is slightly heavier in both actuation and bottom out forces. This means that typing with the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch will provide a slightly more substantial typing experience compared to the Ink Box Pink switch. However, for individuals who prefer a lighter touch and the ability to type for longer periods of time without fatigue, the Ink Box Pink may be the more optimal choice. Overall, the decision between the two switches will depend on an individual's preference for a lighter or heavier actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, we can see that the Ink Box Pink 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 Pink.
In terms of preferences, the shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm in the Ink Box Pink is favored by gamers who seek faster response times. This shorter distance allows for quicker keystrokes, which can be advantageous in fast-paced gaming scenarios. On the other hand, some individuals may find the short travel distance to feel too abrupt or lacking in depth. For those who prefer a more substantial, satisfying keystroke, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring with its longer travel distance of 4 mm would be a better choice.
Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience. If responsiveness and speed are crucial, the Ink Box Pink with its shorter travel distance may be the ideal option. However, if a deeper, more pronounced keystroke is preferred, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring with its longer travel distance would be a better fit. It is important to consider one's own preferences and typing style when selecting the appropriate switch for a keyboard.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Box Pink 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 Pink 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
When it comes to sound, both the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches are described as clacky and high-pitched. Clacky switches produce a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, which can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. High-pitched switches, on the other hand, produce a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. If you prefer a sound profile that is not too rich and bassy, opting for higher-pitched switches is recommended. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps. Therefore, while the Ink Box Pink and the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches have similar sound qualities, the overall sound experience can vary based on these additional factors.
In terms of feel, the Ink Box Pink is known for its silky and polished typing experience. Silky switches offer an exceptionally smooth typing feel, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. A polished switch, on the other hand, indicates a smooth and refined finish, resulting in sleek key travel and reduced friction. On the contrary, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches are described as sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped. These switches provide a high-feedback intensity with a distinct and prominent tactile bump. They are also super responsive and spring-like, giving the keys a lively and rebounding feel. Compared to the Ink Box Pink, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches offer a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle.
Taking into account all the available information, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switches are best known for their smoothness and lighter typing feel. They produce a higher-pitched clack sound when pressed and offer a silky and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switches provide a medium-high level of tactility with deep and resonating thocks. They produce a clacky and high-pitched sound and offer a sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped typing feel. While both switches have their unique qualities, they cater to different preferences in terms of tactile feedback and sound. Whether you prefer a smoother and lighter linear switch or a more tactile and resonating typing experience, the choice between the Ink Box Pink and the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches ultimately depends on your personal preference.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a lighter typing feel, the Gateron Ink Box Pink is a great choice. With a bottom out force of 60 grams, it provides a medium level of resistance, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. The Ink Box Pink switches are also known for their beautiful translucent appearance and produce a higher-pitched clack sound when pressed, which can be crisp and bright.
On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is the switch for you. With a bottom out force of 63 grams, it offers a slightly higher resistance compared to the Ink Box Pink. The Shadow Double Spring switches feature a long, two-staged spring that provides a strong and crisp tactile bump, giving you a prominent and satisfying feedback with each keypress. They also generate deep and resonating thock sounds when typing, adding to the overall typing experience.
Both switches have similar sound profiles, described as clacky and high-pitched. So if you enjoy the sharp and percussive sound of these switches, either one will suit your preference.
In terms of feel, the Ink Box Pink offers a silky and polished experience, enhancing the smoothness of typing with reduced friction. On the other hand, the Shadow Double Spring switch provides a sharp and accented tactility, making each keystroke distinct and lively. It also offers a bouncy and snappy feedback sensation, giving you a sense of rebound and responsiveness.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Aflion Shadow Double Spring will depend on whether you prioritize a lighter linear feel or a medium-high tactile experience. Consider your personal typing preferences and the sound and feel characteristics that resonate with you the most. By doing so, you can make an informed decision and choose the switch that will enhance your overall typing experience.
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