Dareu Master vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the Dareu Master and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Master and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offer unique experiences for users. The Dareu Master, known for its linear POM switch, provides a medium weight feel that delivers a classic clacky sound and exceptional smoothness during operation. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is a tactile switch that offers a medium level of tactility with a lower actuation and bottom-out force, resulting in a very approachable typing experience. While the Dareu Master is categorized as 'Clacky, Mild, Polished', the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring falls under the category of 'Bouncy'. Both switches have their own strengths and reasons why you may want to choose them, 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
45g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
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
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Master and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches both offer unique sound profiles due to their housing materials, POM and polycarbonate respectively. The POM housing of the Master creates a deep and relatively muted sound, while the polycarbonate housing of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, adding a visual element to the auditory experience. Despite their differences, both housing materials contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches, with POM offering a more subdued tone and polycarbonate providing a clearer and more resonant sound.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Dareu Master and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches feature POM and polycarbonate housings respectively. The qualities of these materials are split between the top and bottom of the switch, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel. The POM bottom housing of the Master contributes to its deep and muted sound profile, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring adds to its sharp and crisp sound. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound, making it ideal for those looking for a more defined auditory experience.
While the housing materials of the Dareu Master and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches differ in terms of POM and polycarbonate, both contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The POM housing creates a unique sound that is deep and pleasing, while the polycarbonate housing offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal of the switches. Despite these differences, both housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the sound and feel of the switches, providing users with distinct auditory experiences based on their preferences.
Weight
The Dareu Master linear switch is lighter in terms of actuation force compared to the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, with 45 grams versus 48 grams, respectively. In terms of bottom out force, the Dareu Master's force is unknown while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it medium-light. For individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Dareu Master may be more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch with its heavier bottom out force. Both switches offer unique experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences and typing styles.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Dareu Master linear switch is 3.4 mm, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Dareu Master has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring. The shorter travel distance of the Dareu Master may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring may provide a more substantial and satisfying keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Master has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Master for $4.76.
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.
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 Dareu Master linear switch is well-known for its clacky sound signature, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive, adding an element of tactile feedback to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch offers a deep and thocky sound profile, enhancing the overall auditory experience during typing sessions. Both switches provide distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Master leaning towards a classic clacky sound and the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring delivering a deeper tone.
When it comes to feel, the Dareu Master linear switch offers a mild typing experience, providing a gentle feel that is approachable to most users. This switch is noted for its smooth operation, offering a polished finish that results in sleek key travel and reduced friction. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like sensation and lively key feel. This tactile feedback adds an extra layer of responsiveness to typing, giving users a sense of rebound when pressing down on the keys. While the Master switch focuses on providing a balanced and refined typing experience, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offers a more dynamic and responsive feel for those who enjoy a bit more tactile feedback.
In conclusion, the Dareu Master linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Master switch is known for its clacky sound signature and mild, polished feel, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch provides a deep, thocky sound profile and a bouncy, tactile feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between these switches to customize their typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer high-quality performance and deliver satisfying results for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the Dareu Master linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a switch with no specified bottom out force and a medium weight option with a classic clacky sound signature, opt for the Dareu Master. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a tactile experience with approachable tactility and a deep thocky sound profile, go for the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the specific typing experience and sound profile you prefer.
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