Gateron Ink Red vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Red and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are numerous options to choose from, and two popular contenders that stand out are the Gateron Ink Red and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring. The Gateron Ink Red is a linear switch, renowned for its lower actuation force, making it ideal for individuals with a lighter typing style. Known for their satisfyingly smooth operation and crispy, clacky sound profile, the Ink Reds offer an effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is a tactile switch that provides a medium level of tactility. This variant of the Shadow switch boasts a lower actuation and bottom-out force, resulting in a comfortably tactile typing feel. Additionally, its deep and thocky sound profile adds an extra layer of satisfaction. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision regarding which switch suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Gold-plated
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Red and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring have different housing materials, leading to contrasting sound profiles. The Ink Red utilizes a proprietary INK blend for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring incorporates polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing, producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. While both switches have a high-pitched sound, the Ink Red's sound is described as clacky, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's sound is more resonant. Additionally, the clear housing of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, being made of polycarbonate, is especially beneficial for those planning to use RGB lighting.
Despite their housing material differences, the qualities of each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel. This means that the tactile experience and sound when striking a key will be influenced by the bottom housing material. Conversely, when releasing a key, the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound produced. Therefore, depending on the desired sound experience during both key press and release, the choice of housing material for the top and bottom can greatly affect the overall feel and acoustics of the switch.
In terms of similarity, both the Gateron Ink Red and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring provide a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound due to their respective housing materials. The proprietary INK blend used in the Ink Red's top and bottom housing offers a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile, similar to the crisper sound profile obtained from the polycarbonate top and bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring. Therefore, if a user is seeking a switch with a clacky or high-pitched sound, both options can deliver comparable results, albeit with slight differences in resonance and clarity.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, we can observe some similarities and differences. In terms of actuation force, the Ink Red requires 45 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring requires slightly more at 48 grams. Both switches fall under the medium category, providing a balanced push feel.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Ink Red requires 60 grams of force to fully press down, whereas the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring requires 55 grams. Both switches can be considered relatively light in terms of bottoming out, ensuring a comfortable typing experience.
It is worth noting that the Ink Red switch is lighter in terms of actuation force, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is lighter when it comes to bottoming out. This means that the Ink Red may be more suitable for those who prefer a lighter initial touch, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring may be better for individuals who desire a slightly lighter overall typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. Those who prefer a lighter, more effortless typing experience may lean towards the Ink Red, while individuals who desire a slightly heavier and more substantial feel to their keystrokes may opt for the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring. Both switches offer a medium to medium-light force range, ensuring a comfortable typing experience for extended periods of time.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent and satisfying key press experience with their identical travel distance. Therefore, regardless of whether you choose the Gateron Ink Red or the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, you can expect to achieve similar results in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Red 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 Red for $7.35.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch offers a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement. This makes it suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, or if you plan to use the switch at home or work. Additionally, the Ink Red switch has a unique chirpy characteristic, which sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, information about the sound profile of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is unknown. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps being used. Therefore, even though specific details about the sound profile of the Aflion switch are not provided, you can expect to achieve similar results as the Ink Red switch when considering these factors.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch is described as silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience. This smoothness enhances the overall feel of typing, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing the keys. The Ink Red switch is also categorized as mild, providing a gentle typing experience that most users will find approachable. Additionally, the switch is referred to as polished, indicating a sleek and refined finish that results in a smooth typing experience. This can be attributed to the materials used or factory lubrication, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is characterized as bouncy, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation. This gives the keys a lively feel and offers a rebound when pressed.
Taking all the available information into account, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch is perfect for individuals with a lighter typing style, offering a satisfyingly smooth feel and a crispy, clacky sound profile. It has a moderate actuation force and is suitable for various purposes. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is recommended for those looking for a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility. It features a lower actuation and bottom-out force, providing a more approachable tactility. Although specific details about its sound and feel are not provided, by considering the characteristics of the Ink Red switch alongside the influence of other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps, one can expect to achieve similar results with the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you have a lighter typing style and prefer a smooth and effortless typing experience, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch would be a great choice for you. With its lower actuation force and satisfyingly smooth feel, the Ink Reds are suitable for both beginners and advanced users. Additionally, the crispy and clacky sound profile adds to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch would be a highly recommended option. It features a lower actuation and bottom-out force, making it approachable for most users. The deep and thocky sound profile adds to its unique characteristics. Furthermore, if you prefer a bouncy and elastic feedback sensation, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch would be a perfect fit. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your typing preferences and desired sound and feel.
Mentioned in this article
