Gateron Jupiter Brown vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron Jupiter Brown and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring are both tactile switches that cater to different preferences and needs in mechanical keyboards. The Jupiter Browns offer a more traditional keystroke feel with a medium-heavy weight, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring provides a medium-high level of tactility with a two-staged spring for added responsiveness. Both switches feature high-precision molds and enhanced backlight effects, but the Shadow switches are known for their deep, resonating typing sound. If you prefer a classic typing experience with a softer touch, the Jupiter Browns may be the way to go. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more tactile and responsive typing experience with a distinctive typing sound, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch could be your ideal choice. 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
55g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
63g
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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, we can see that both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. However, the Jupiter Brown also has a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature absorbing more sound. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound profile similar to its top housing.
While both switches share the use of polycarbonate in their top housing, the differentiation in their bottom housing materials creates distinct typing experiences. The nylon bottom housing of the Jupiter Brown creates a deeper sound profile, providing a more rounded typing experience. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring contributes to a sharper and crisper sound, enhancing the overall tactile feedback of the switch. This variation in bottom housing material showcases how subtle changes can impact the overall typing feel and sound profile of a switch.
Overall, the combination of different housing materials in the Jupiter Brown and Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches highlights how each material brings unique characteristics to the typing experience. While both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and clear sound profile, the difference in bottom housing materials allows for varying levels of sound absorption and resonance. Ultimately, whether using a nylon or polycarbonate bottom housing, each switch offers a distinct typing experience tailored to the preferences of the user.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch reveals some differences in weight. The Jupiter Brown has a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams compared to the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's 63 grams, making it slightly more resistant to fully pressing down. However, both switches share the same actuation force of 55 grams, meaning that the initial force required to register a keystroke is identical. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring would be the better choice due to its lower bottom out force. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial push feel may lean towards the Jupiter Brown for its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and whether a lighter or heavier typing experience is desired.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance of travel. As a result, the travel distance of both switches is equal, providing a similar typing experience in terms of key feel and distance traveled. Therefore, whether using the Gateron Jupiter Brown or the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches, users can expect to have a consistent typing experience in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Gateron Jupiter Brown comes in at $2.80 per 10 switches.
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 Jupiter Brown switch is known for providing a smooth and consistent typing experience, with a sound profile that is traditionally more muffled compared to clicky switches. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offers a distinctive clacky sound with high-pitched characteristics, providing a more sharp and percussive typing feedback. Both switches offer unique auditory experiences that cater to different preferences, so your choice should depend on whether you prefer a quieter, more traditional typing sound or a louder, more pronounced click.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Jupiter Brown switch is described as mild, polished, and stepped, providing a gentle and refined typing experience with a medium-heavy actuation force. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offers a sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped feel, with a more intense and lively tactile feedback due to its two-staged spring design. If you prefer a more subtle and smooth typing feel, the Jupiter Brown switch is a great option, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is ideal for those looking for a more dynamic and responsive typing experience.
Overall, the Gateron Jupiter Brown and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. While the Jupiter Brown switch provides a classic, medium-heavy typing experience with a more muted sound profile, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offers a more intense and lively typing feel with a distinct clacky sound. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize a traditional, quieter typing experience or a more dynamic and tactile feedback while typing.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a classic keystroke feel at a medium-heavy weight with reliable performance and aesthetic appeal, the Jupiter Brown may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are seeking a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility, characterized by a vibrant sound profile and lively feedback, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should depend on your personal preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel when typing. Trust your instincts and choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
Mentioned in this article
