Gateron Luciola vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring

Overview

The Gateron Luciola and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer different typing experiences. The Luciola stands out with its glowing feature, making it visually appealing, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has a medium level of tactility that makes typing comfortable. The Luciola switch provides a smooth and bouncy typing feel with a unique hollow sound profile reminiscent of a can of spray paint being shaken. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offers a lower actuation and bottom-out force, resulting in an approachable tactile experience. Additionally, it boasts a deep and thocky sound profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preference and typing style.

By the numbers

Gateron Luciola Linear

Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring Tactile

$7.50

$6.50 per 10

$4.50

$3.57 per 10

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Housing materials

The Gateron Luciola and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring differ in their housing materials. The Luciola features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. Described as clacky, it offers a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring incorporates a polycarbonate top housing. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Due to its translucency, the polycarbonate top housing is especially useful for RGB lighting enthusiasts. While both housing materials provide a high-pitched sound, the Luciola's INK blend is not as sharp as the polycarbonate used in the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring.

Similarly, the bottom housings of the Luciola and the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring also differ in material. The Luciola uses the proprietary INK blend, which results in a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. This bottom housing material contributes to the clacky sound often associated with the Luciola. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, leading to a crisper and more clear sound profile. This material choice creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound compared to the Luciola's INK blend. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting.

Considering the impact of the housing materials on the overall sound and feel of the switches, it is important to note that the qualities of these materials are divided between the top and bottom housings. When pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing material influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the key. In this regard, the Luciola's INK blend and the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's polycarbonate will impart their respective characteristics to the user. Conversely, when releasing a key, the top housing material becomes more significant in determining the sound. Therefore, the top housing material of the Luciola and the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring will play a larger role in the sound produced when a key is released.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, there are noticeable differences. The Gateron Luciola has an actuation force of 55 grams, slightly heavier than the 48 grams required for the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring. In terms of bottom out force, the Luciola requires 60 grams, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring requires a slightly lighter 55 grams.

The Luciola can be considered medium in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces, providing a balanced typing experience. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring falls on the medium-light side for both actuation and bottom out forces.

Weight plays an important role in selecting a switch as it affects typing comfort and endurance. Some users may prefer lighter switches, such as the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, as it allows for longer typing periods, making it suitable for work or prolonged gaming sessions. In contrast, the Luciola may be preferred by those seeking a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. For individuals who desire similar results, both switches offer medium actuation forces, which may provide a similar typing experience despite their slight variations in bottom out force.

Travel distance

The Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch have different travel distances. The Luciola has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of traditional travel distances, 4.0 mm is the most common, while 3.0 mm is the most shallow. However, shorter travel distances have become increasingly popular, particularly among gamers who prioritize faster response times. In this case, the Luciola with its shorter travel distance would be a preferred option. On the other hand, some individuals may find short travel distances to be too abrupt and prefer a deeper feel when pressing a key. For those who prefer a more substantial travel distance, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch would be the better choice. Overall, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness or depth.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Luciola linear switch has a unique "can of spray paint being shaken" sound profile. This can be described as hollow and slightly metallic, providing a distinct auditory experience. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is unknown. It is important to note that the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. However, if you prefer a higher-pitched and crisp sound, the Luciola may be the better choice.

When it comes to feel, the Luciola linear switch is known for its smooth and bouncy typing sensation. The switch offers a medium level of tactility and is highly responsive, thanks to longer or dual-staged springs. This results in a snappy and lively typing experience. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is described as providing a bouncy feel. The keys have a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, giving you a sense of rebound when pressed. However, there is limited information available on the overall feel of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch.

In conclusion, both the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch offer their own unique qualities. The Luciola switch provides a distinct sound profile with its "can of spray paint being shaken" sound, while the Shadow switch has a deep and thocky sound profile. In terms of feel, the Luciola offers a smooth and bouncy typing experience, while the Shadow switch provides a bouncy and spring-like feedback. It is important to consider personal preferences and factors such as sound and feel when choosing between these switches. If you are looking for similar results in terms of sound and feel, the Luciola may be a good option, as it offers a medium heft and a smooth typing feel, while the Shadow switch provides a medium level of tactility.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a unique aesthetic appeal, smooth and bouncy typing feel, and a medium bottom-out force, the Gateron Luciola linear switch would be a great choice. These eye-catching switches not only glow in the dark but also deliver a satisfying typing experience with their "can of spray paint being shaken" sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility, lower actuation and bottom-out force, and a deep and thocky sound profile, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is highly recommended. With its approachable tactility and lively bouncy feedback, this switch offers a unique typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your personal preferences and typing style.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Luciola Linear

$7.50

$6.50 per 10

Learn more

Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring Tactile

$4.50

$3.57 per 10

Learn more