Keygeek Keygeek Raw vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Keygeek Raw and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Keygeek Raw and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring stand out as unique options with distinct characteristics. The Keygeek Raw is praised for its creamy yet lightweight feel, thanks to a blend of Nylon, UMPE, and Silicon materials. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offers a medium-high level of tactility with its two-staged spring design, resulting in deep, resonating thocks while typing. While the Keygeek Raw provides a textured and mild typing experience, the Aflion Shadow switch is described as clacky, sharp, and bouncy. If you prefer a neutral and subtle switch, the Keygeek Raw may be the way to go, whereas the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is perfect for those who enjoy a more accentuated and snappy typing feel. 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
N/A
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
57.5g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon & UPE blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
UMPE & Si blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
The Keygeek Raw and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles and aesthetics. The Keygeek Raw utilizes a Nylon & UPE blend for the top housing and a UMPE & Si blend for the bottom housing, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring utilizes polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing. The polycarbonate material in the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, which is especially beneficial if you plan to use RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Keygeek Raw's exclusive blends offer a different sound profile and aesthetic appeal that sets it apart from the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring.
Despite their differences, the use of polycarbonate in both the top and bottom housings of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring ensures a consistent sound profile throughout the entire switch. This is in contrast to the Keygeek Raw, which splits the unique qualities of its housing blends between the top and bottom of the switch. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound profile, emphasizing the impact of both the top and bottom housing on the overall typing experience. In comparison, the Keygeek Raw's exclusive blends bring their own unique characteristics to each part of the switch, potentially providing a more varied typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the Keygeek Raw and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring will come down to personal preference and the desired typing experience. While the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offers a consistent sound profile throughout the switch thanks to its polycarbonate material, the Keygeek Raw provides a more customizable experience with its unique housing blends for the top and bottom. Both switches have their own advantages and drawbacks, so it's essential to consider what qualities are most important to you when selecting the ideal housing material for your mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
When comparing the Keygeek Raw linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, one noticeable difference is the actuation and bottom out forces. The Keygeek Raw has an actuation force of None grams, making it lighter in comparison to the 55 grams actuation force of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring. Both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Keygeek Raw requiring 57.5 grams and the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring needing 63 grams. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Keygeek Raw would be a better option, as it has a lighter actuation force. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the slightly heavier actuation force of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Keygeek Raw linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, which is shorter compared to the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the overall typing or gaming experience. Those who prioritize speed and quick response times may prefer the Keygeek Raw with its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial keypress and a greater sense of depth, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch with its longer travel distance may be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the type of typing or gaming experience you are looking for.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Keygeek Keygeek Raw has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keygeek Raw for $3.51.
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 Keygeek Raw linear switch offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch provides a clacky and high-pitched sound that is sharp, crisp, and bright. If you prefer a more moderate sound, the Keygeek Raw would be the better option, while the Shadow switch is perfect for those who enjoy a more percussive and pronounced typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Keygeek Raw switch offers a textured and mild typing experience with a subtle resistance that is suitable for shared spaces. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch provides a sharp and accented tactile feedback that is more intense and lively. With its bouncy and stepped characteristics, the Shadow switch offers a typing experience that is responsive and dynamic, perfect for those who prefer a more tactile and engaging feel while typing.
Overall, the Keygeek Raw linear switch is ideal for users looking for a smooth and lightweight typing experience with a neutral sound profile. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch is a great choice for individuals seeking a more tactile and pronounced typing feel with a clacky and high-pitched sound. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the Keygeek Raw and Aflion Shadow switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a unique material blend and a slightly textured feel, the Keygeek Raw linear switch would be a great choice for you. These switches are known for their lightweight yet creamy feel, making them perfect for enthusiasts who enjoy hand-lubing their switches. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility and deep thocks when typing, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch would be a better option. These switches offer a sharp and snappy sound profile that can be described as clacky and high-pitched, providing a distinct typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Keygeek Raw and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring will depend on your preference for material blend, sound profile, and tactile feel. Choose the switch that best suits your typing style and preferences to enhance your overall keyboard experience.
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