Gateron Jupiter Brown vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring both offer unique features worth exploring. The Jupiter Browns provide a traditional yet innovative typing experience with their tactile feedback and medium-heavy weight. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offers a more approachable tactility with a lower actuation and bottom-out force, along with a deep and thocky sound profile. While the Jupiter Browns cater to those seeking a classic keystroke feel with enhanced softer backlight effects, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is ideal for individuals looking for a medium level of tactility. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, ideal for those who prefer a more distinct typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the aesthetic appeal of the switches, especially when paired with RGB lighting. However, the Jupiter Brown differs in its use of a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's polycarbonate bottom housing. This contrast in bottom housing material may impact how each switch feels and sounds during use.
While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a similar sound profile, the difference lies in their bottom housing materials. The nylon bottom housing of the Jupiter Brown provides a softer feel and absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. In contrast, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring maintains a sharper and more resonant sound, complementing the characteristics of its top housing. This distinction highlights how the choice of housing material can significantly influence the overall typing experience and sound output of a switch.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring comes down to personal preference in sound and feel. While both switches offer a sharp, higher-pitched sound profile with their polycarbonate top housings, the use of different bottom housing materials sets them apart in terms of sound depth and feel. Whether one prefers a deeper, fuller sound with the nylon bottom housing of the Jupiter Brown or a crisper, clearer sound with the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, the housing materials play a crucial role in determining the overall typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch vary in terms of weight. The Jupiter Brown has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring features a lighter actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, offering a medium-light touch. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Shadow switch for longer typing or gaming sessions, while others may opt for the heavier feel of the Jupiter Brown for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the travel distance of these two switches, both offer the same amount of key travel, providing a consistent and familiar typing experience for users. Whether you choose the Jupiter Brown or the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, you can expect similar results in terms of key travel distance. This similarity in travel distance can be great for users who prefer a specific feel and feedback from their keyboard switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch is known for its soft and muffled sound profile, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch offers a deep and thocky sound. The sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, the Jupiter Brown switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, offering a safe middle-ground zone in terms of sound and feel. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation that adds liveliness to the typing experience.
Taking all the available information into consideration, it is clear that the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Jupiter Brown provides a more traditional and gentle typing experience with a softer sound profile, the Aflion Shadow switch offers a deeper sound and a bouncier feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience. If one is looking for similar results in terms of sound and feel, either switch could potentially provide a satisfying experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a classic keystroke feel with enhanced backlight effects, the Jupiter Brown may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you lean towards a lower actuation and bottom-out force with a deep and thocky sound profile, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch might suit your preferences better. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your individual typing style and preferences for tactility, sound, and feel.
Mentioned in this article
