Zuoce Lavender vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Lavender and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Zuoce Lavender, a linear switch, to the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, a tactile switch, it's clear that each offers unique benefits for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Lavender switch stands out for its exceptional smoothness and crisp, clacky sound signature, providing a satisfying typing experience right out of the box. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is known for its medium-high level of tactility and deep, resonating thocks, offering a different tactile typing experience. While the Lavender switch is 'easy-to-press' and 'clacky', the Shadow switch is 'clacky', 'high-pitched', 'sharp', 'accented', 'snappy', 'bouncy', and 'stepped'. Each switch has its own strengths and characteristics that cater to different 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
Technical specifications
Actuation force
48g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Z1 (Ly blend)
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
21mm double-staged spring
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
The Zuoce Lavender and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Lavender utilizes POM housing for both the top and bottom, creating a deeper and more muted sound. In contrast, the Shadow Double Spring switches use polycarbonate for both the top and bottom, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. While the POM housing in the Lavender creates a pleasing sound, the polycarbonate housing in the Shadow switches offers a more resonant and clear sound.
However, when looking at the individual top housing materials of the two switches, a noticeable difference can be observed. The Lavender's POM top housing produces a unique sound profile that is deeper and more muted, while the Shadow's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound. The translucency of the polycarbonate material used in the Shadow switch makes it especially suitable for RGB lighting, offering a visually appealing aspect to the switch. In terms of aesthetics and sound profile, the difference between the POM and polycarbonate top housing materials sets the Lavender and Shadow switches apart.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Lavender and Shadow switches offer similar qualities due to the consistency in using POM or polycarbonate material. The impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel is more pronounced when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing's influence is more noticeable when releasing a key. While the materials used may differ between the two switches, the qualities each housing material brings remain consistent within each switch, resulting in a cohesive sound profile for both the Lavender and Shadow switches.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, it is evident that the Lavender is lighter in terms of actuation force at 48 grams compared to the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring at 55 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Lavender requires 53 grams while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring needs 63 grams, making the Lavender the lighter option overall. Both switches offer a medium level of force, making them suitable for a variety of typing preferences. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Lavender, while individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience might opt for the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Lavender linear switch offers a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch which has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Lavender being on the shorter end and the Shadow (Ink) on the longer end. Gamers looking for a faster response time may prefer the Lavender due to its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the Shadow (Ink) with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the decision between the two will come down to personal preference and what type of typing experience is desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Zuoce Lavender has an MSRP of $2.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lavender for $1.99.
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
In terms of sound, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch is best known for its clacky sound signature, providing a sharp and snappy sound with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch also offers a clacky sound profile but with an additional high-pitched element, delivering a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. Both switches provide a satisfying auditory experience, and the choice between the two would depend on personal preference for either a crisper or higher-pitched sound.
When it comes to feel, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch is known for being easy to press, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This results in a low-impact typing feel that is responsive and comfortable. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch provides a sharp and crisp tactile bump, along with an accented tactility that is not overwhelming but still prominent. Additionally, this switch offers a snappy and bouncy feel, making each keystroke feel lively and responsive. The choice between the two switches would depend on whether one prefers a light and easy keypress or a more pronounced and feedback-intensive typing experience.
Taking all factors into consideration, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch is ideal for those who prioritize smoothness, easy keypresses, and a clacky sound signature. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch is perfect for individuals seeking a tactile switch with medium-high tactility, a deep thock sound, sharp tactile feedback, and an overall bouncy and snappy typing feel. Both switches have their unique qualities, and while they offer different experiences, they both provide satisfying typing experiences based on individual preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, consider your preference for smoothness and lightness of touch. If you prioritize a smooth and clacky typing experience with a medium-light bottom out force, the Lavender switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile and sharp feedback with a medium bottom out force, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch, with its unique double-spring design producing deep thocks, would suit your typing style better. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience.
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