Gateron Melodic vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Gateron Melodic and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch stand out from the rest. The Gateron Melodic offers a classic clicky sound and tactile feedback, thanks to features like smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems, making it a 'Buttery', 'Resonant', 'Invigorating', and 'Crunchy' option. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring provides a medium-high level of tactility with its long, two-staged spring, resulting in deep, resonating thocks and a 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Sharp', 'Accented', 'Snappy', 'Bouncy', and 'Stepped' typing experience. Both switches have unique qualities that cater to specific preferences, so choosing between them ultimately depends 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
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Melodic and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. However, where the Melodic switch differs is in its nylon bottom housing. Nylon is a softer material compared to polycarbonate, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This creates a contrast in sound experience between the two switches.
The use of different housing materials in the Melodic and Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches results in a varied typing experience. While the polycarbonate top housing in both switches offers a clear and resonant sound profile, the Melodic's nylon bottom housing contributes to a duller and rounder sound compared to the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's polycarbonate bottom housing. This difference in material translates to a noticeable variation in sound and feel when typing on the switches. The combination of these materials in each switch allows for a unique tactile experience for users to enjoy.
When considering the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall typing experience, it is important to note how each material affects different aspects of the switch's sound profile. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. In the case of the Melodic and Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches, the contrasting housing materials create a dynamic typing experience that caters to different preferences in sound and feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the user's desired typing experience and sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, it is clear that both switches offer a medium level of resistance. The Melodic has a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has a slightly higher bottom out force of 63 grams. The actuation force of the Melodic is not specified, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has an actuation force of 55 grams. This means that the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring requires slightly less force to initiate a keystroke compared to the Melodic. Despite these differences, both switches fall within the medium weight category, which may suit individuals who prefer a balance between a light and heavy typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, both switches have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that regardless of which switch you use, you can expect similar results in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent tactile feedback and actuation point, making them a popular choice among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. So, whether you prefer the clicky feel of the Gateron Melodic or the tactile feedback of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, you can enjoy a similar travel distance with either switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Melodic has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Melodic for $6.00.
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 Gateron Melodic switch offers a resonant and crunchy experience, providing a higher-pitched sound profile with a clean and sharp auditory experience reminiscent of stepping on crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch produces a clacky and high-pitched sound, resulting in a sharp, bright, and percussive tone when typing. Both switches deliver unique auditory feedback, allowing users to enjoy different sound profiles depending on their preference.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Melodic switch offers a buttery and invigorating typing experience, characterized by smooth and fluid keystrokes with a seamless and uniform sensation. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch provides a sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped tactile feel, offering high feedback intensity, distinct tactile bumps, super responsiveness, and a spring-like rebound effect. Both switches cater to users seeking varying levels of tactility and feedback during typing sessions.
In conclusion, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch each bring their unique qualities to the table. While the Melodic switch offers a distinctive resonant sound and buttery feel, the Shadow switch provides a clacky sound and sharp tactile feedback. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between these switches for a customized typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer high-quality performance and can deliver satisfactory results based on the user's individual preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. Choose the Melodic if you enjoy a medium bottom out force clicky switch with a mix of a resonant and crunchy sound profile, along with a buttery and invigorating typing feel. On the other hand, opt for the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring if you prefer a medium bottom out force tactile switch with a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, paired with a sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped tactile typing feel. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize the classic clicky experience with the Melodic or the intense tactile feedback with the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring. Make your decision based on your preferred typing experience and auditory feedback.
Mentioned in this article
