Gateron Jupiter Red vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring

Overview

When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to explore are the Gateron Jupiter Red, a linear switch, and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, a tactile switch. The Jupiter Red offers a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke with a medium-heavy actuation, making it ideal for those seeking a consistent typing experience. On the other hand, the Shadow Single Spring boasts a medium level of tactility, providing a satisfying typing feel with a lower actuation and bottom-out force. While the Jupiter Red is categorized as 'Polished', 'Creamy', 'Silky', 'Mild', and 'Neutral', the Shadow Single Spring is labeled as 'Bouncy'. Both switches have their unique advantages depending on individual preferences; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Jupiter Red Linear

Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring Tactile

$2.80 per 10

$4.50

$3.57 per 10

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Housing materials

In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, both switches feature a top housing made of polycarbonate. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. Additionally, polycarbonate is commonly used in switches with clear housings, making it ideal for those looking to utilize RGB lighting. However, the Jupiter Red utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring features a polycarbonate bottom housing, mirroring the top housing, thereby maintaining a consistent sound profile throughout the switch.

While both switches share a polycarbonate top housing that enhances sound quality and aesthetics, the Gateron Jupiter Red's nylon bottom housing provides a different typing experience compared to the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's polycarbonate bottom housing. Typing on the Jupiter Red will result in a deeper and fuller sound due to the nylon's softer properties, creating a duller and rounder sound profile. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring maintains a consistent sharp and clear sound profile throughout, thanks to the use of polycarbonate in both the top and bottom housings. This difference in bottom housing material showcases how varying materials can impact the overall typing experience and sound produced by a switch.

Overall, the choice of housing material in a switch can significantly impact sound quality and typing feel. While both the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and crisp sound profile, the use of different bottom housing materials results in distinct typing experiences. Whether one prefers the deeper sound of nylon or the consistent clarity of polycarbonate, selecting a switch with the right combination of housing materials is crucial for achieving the desired typing experience. Ultimately, understanding the unique properties of each housing material can help users make informed decisions when choosing switches for their keyboards.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, it is clear that the Jupiter Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's 48 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Jupiter Red requires a heavier force of 60 grams compared to the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's 55 grams. Both switches fall within the medium range, with the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring being slightly lighter overall. The differences in force can impact a user's typing experience, with some preferring the lighter actuation force for prolonged typing sessions and others preferring the heavier bottom out force for a more substantial feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force feedback.

Travel distance

The Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience the same level of travel distance. While they both provide a similar typing experience in terms of travel distance, the choice between the two switches may come down to other factors such as actuation force, sound profile, and tactile feedback. Ultimately, both switches offer a standard travel distance that is suitable for most users, providing consistent performance in typing and gaming scenarios.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Jupiter Red linear switch is known for its neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is described as having a deep and thocky sound profile, adding a satisfying auditory element to the typing experience. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics, providing users with options depending on their preferences and typing environment.

In terms of feel, the Jupiter Red switch is known for its polished, creamy, and silky typing experience, providing a smooth and refined feel with reduced friction. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is described as bouncy, offering a lively and spring-like feedback sensation when typing. While the Jupiter Red switch focuses on a sleek and effortless typing experience, the Aflion Shadow switch prioritizes a more dynamic and responsive feel, catering to users who enjoy a bouncier keystroke.

Overall, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Jupiter Red switch provides a neutral sound and polished typing experience, the Aflion Shadow switch delivers a deep sound profile and bouncy typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing style. Users can expect different but equally satisfying results depending on their selection.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and consistent typing experience with a medium-heavy actuation force, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility and a lower actuation force, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch would be a great option. Consider the sound and feel descriptions to further narrow down your choice based on your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so it's important to consider your own typing style and needs when making a decision between the two.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Jupiter Red Linear

$2.80 per 10

Learn more

Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring Tactile

$4.50

$3.57 per 10

Learn more