Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Pink 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 Pink and the Aflion Thunder Shadow mechanical keyboard switches, there are some key differences to consider. The Ink Box Pink stands out for its smooth linear characteristics and light typing feel, creating a higher-pitched clack during use. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow from Aflion offers a tactile experience with a pronounced bump and medium weight feel, coupled with a neutral sound signature. While the Ink Box Pink may appeal to those looking for a silky, polished typing experience, the Thunder Shadow is ideal for users seeking an invigorating 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
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
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 housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Aflion Thunder Shadow significantly impact the sound profile of the switches. The Ink Box Pink's proprietary INK blend top housing provides a relatively high-pitched and clacky sound, while the Thunder Shadow's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. The use of polycarbonate in the Thunder Shadow switch creates a more resonant sound due to its stiffness, making it ideal for RGB lighting effects. In contrast, the INK blend in the Ink Box Pink delivers a thinner and higher-pitched sound that is not overly sharp.
The bottom housing materials of the two switches also play a crucial role in the overall sound profile. The Ink Box Pink's proprietary INK blend bottom housing contributes to the switch's pointed and satisfyingly clacky sound. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound profile compared to the Ink Box Pink's bottom housing.
Overall, while the top and bottom housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Aflion Thunder Shadow differ, they both significantly influence the sound profile of the switches. The polycarbonate top housing of the Thunder Shadow creates a clear and resonant sound, ideal for RGB lighting effects, while the INK blend top housing of the Ink Box Pink delivers a thinner and higher-pitched sound. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the Thunder Shadow produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Box Pink contributes to a pointed and satisfyingly clacky sound. Each switch offers a unique sound experience based on the materials used in its housing.
Weight
The Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Thunder Shadow has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, while the Ink Box Pink has a bottom out force of 60 grams. Both switches fall into the medium to medium-heavy range of force required for typing. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Ink Box Pink for extended typing sessions or gaming, while others may prefer the heavier bottom out force of the Thunder Shadow for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing feel and force required.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch is 3.6 mm, while the travel distance of the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch is 3.5 mm. In this case, the Ink Box Pink has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Thunder Shadow. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. However, for those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing or gaming, the slightly longer travel distance of the Ink Box Pink may provide a more satisfying experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific feel each individual is seeking in a keyboard switch.
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 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 Pink switch is known for its high-pitched and clacky typing noise, providing a sharp and percussive sound with each keystroke. In contrast, the Aflion Thunder Shadow switch offers a more neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various environments and preferences. The Ink Box Pink will give you a lively and bright auditory experience, while the Thunder Shadow will provide a more balanced and versatile sound output.
In terms of feel, the Ink Box Pink switch offers a silky and polished typing experience, ensuring a smooth and refined keypress with minimal resistance. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow switch delivers an invigorating tactile feedback, along with a medium-weight feel at 63.5g bottom-out force. The Ink Box Pink excels in providing a seamless and fluid typing sensation, while the Thunder Shadow focuses on offering a tactile and responsive typing experience.
Overall, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. The Ink Box Pink emphasizes a lighter typing feel with a high-pitched clack, ideal for those seeking a smooth and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow provides a balanced tactile feedback with a neutral sound signature, suitable for a wide range of users and environments. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that will enhance your typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, consider the factors of typing feel and sound preference. If you prefer a smoother and lighter typing experience with a higher-pitched clack sound, the Ink Box Pink would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more balanced tactile bump with a medium weight feel and a neutral sound profile, the Thunder Shadow would be the better option. Ultimately, the decision will come down to personal preference in typing feel and sound characteristics.
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