PH Studio Jacaranda vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, they both offer unique features and functionalities worth considering. The Jacaranda stands out for its gentle bottom-out pressure of 43.5g, making it easy on the fingers and ideal for prolonged typing sessions without causing fatigue. Its clacky sound signature and extended 22mm spring provide a bouncy sensation with each keystroke, enhancing the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offers a medium-high level of tactility with its two-staged spring, delivering deep and resonating thocks while typing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on your personal preference and typing style. 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
39g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
The main difference between the housing materials of the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is the material used for the bottom housing. The Jacaranda utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring employs a polycarbonate bottom housing, which enhances a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This difference in bottom housing material results in a noticeable variation in the typing experience between the two switches.
On the other hand, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a similar sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material's stiffness contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile, making it ideal for switches intended for RGB lighting setups. The similar top housing material ensures that both the Jacaranda and the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offer comparable characteristics in terms of sound when releasing a key, despite their differing bottom housing materials. Overall, this commonality in the top housing material provides a consistent aspect in the typing experience of both switches.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and typing experience offered by a keyboard. While the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring share a polycarbonate top housing, their differing bottom housing materials result in distinct sound profiles when typing. The nylon bottom housing of the Jacaranda delivers a deeper and fuller sound, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring produces a crisper and sharper sound. This distinction highlights how the selection of housing materials can significantly impact the overall typing experience and sound profile of a mechanical switch.
Weight
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch is lighter than the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch in terms of both actuation force and bottom out force. The Jacaranda requires 39 grams of force to actuate and 45 grams to bottom out, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring needs 55 grams to actuate and 63 grams to bottom out. This means that the Jacaranda provides a lighter typing experience overall. Those who prefer a softer touch may enjoy the Jacaranda more for longer typing sessions, while those who prefer a more tactile and substantial typing feel may lean towards the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch. Both switches offer different levels of force for a varied typing experience, catering to different preferences and needs.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Jacaranda offers a shorter distance, making it ideal for those looking for a faster response time, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch provides a bit more depth, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the specific feel that each individual is looking for in a switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The PH Studio Jacaranda has an MSRP of $3.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jacaranda for $3.30.
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, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, creating a sharp and crisp auditory experience with each key press. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch also leans towards a clacky and high-pitched sound, delivering deep and resonating thocks while typing. Both switches offer a vibrant and engaging sound that can enhance the overall typing experience, especially when paired with the right keyboard and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Jacaranda switch is described as silky, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience that minimizes resistance and enhances overall smoothness. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch offers a sharp and accented tactile bump, along with a snappy and bouncy sensation that makes each keystroke feel lively and responsive. The stepped feel of the Shadow switch adds an extra layer of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, giving users a distinct typing feel to enjoy.
Overall, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch both bring unique qualities to the table. While the Jacaranda excels in providing a clacky sound and silky smooth feel, the Shadow switch stands out with its sharp and accented tactility, along with a bouncy and snappy typing sensation. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, either switch can offer a satisfying typing experience. However, for users looking for a more pronounced tactile feedback and livelier keystrokes, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch may be the preferred choice.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a light bottom-out force for a fatigue-free typing experience with a bouncy sensation and clacky sound, the Jacaranda is your go-to choice. On the other hand, if you are looking for a medium-high level of tactility with a sharp and resonant sound profile, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch is the way to go. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel and sound characteristics. Both switches offer unique features that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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