PH Studio Milk Tea vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Milk Tea and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch to the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, it is clear that each offers unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Milk Tea switch, with its high-pitched yet muted sound profile and lightweight 43.5g bottom-out force, is tailored for extended typing sessions with a focus on ease and comfort. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch boasts a medium-high level of tactility and deep thocks, making it a great choice for those who prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback while typing. 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
37.5g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
43.5g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
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
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the PH Studio Milk Tea and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, it is clear that they both offer unique sound profiles based on the material used. The Milk Tea's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. This difference in sound can significantly impact the typing experience for users, with the POM housing offering a more subtle sound and the polycarbonate housing providing a more distinct and pronounced typing feedback.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the Milk Tea's POM bottom housing and the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's polycarbonate bottom housing contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch. The POM housing of the Milk Tea offers a deep and muted sound, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring provides a sharper and crisper sound. This difference in sound can affect the overall typing experience, with the bottom housing playing a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
Overall, the choice of housing material for a switch can greatly impact the sound and feel of typing. While the Milk Tea and the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings, the qualities of each material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. This means that the bottom housing will have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. Whether a user prefers the deeper and more muted sound of POM or the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate will depend on their personal preferences and typing style.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, it is evident that the Milk Tea is lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces, with 37.5 grams and 43.5 grams respectively. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is heavier, with actuation and bottom out forces of 55 grams and 63 grams respectively. The difference in force between the two switches results in a noticeable contrast in typing experience; the Milk Tea providing a lighter and smoother keystroke, ideal for those who prefer a gentler touch, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offers a more substantial and tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches would depend on individual preferences for typing force and feedback.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Milk Tea has a shorter travel distance compared to the Shadow (Ink). The difference may not seem significant, but for some users, even a small variation in travel distance can impact their typing experience. Gamers, in particular, may lean towards the Milk Tea for its slightly faster response time. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial keypress might opt for the Shadow (Ink) with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the type of typing experience each individual is seeking.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The PH Studio Milk Tea has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milk Tea for $4.00.
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 PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch offers a unique blend of a high-pitched yet muted sound profile, providing a gentle balance between presence and subtlety. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch is described as clacky and high-pitched, delivering sharp and crisp sound with deep resonating thocks. Both switches present distinct auditory experiences depending on individual preferences, with the Milk Tea focusing on a more refined and polished sound while the Shadow switch provides a more intense and tactile feedback.
In terms of feel, the Milk Tea switch is known for its polished and silky typing experience, offering a smooth and refined key travel with reduced friction. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is described as sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped, providing a tactile response with a medium-high level of tactility that is distinct and lively. Each switch emphasizes different aspects of typing feel, catering to users who prefer either a smoother and polished experience or a more tactile and responsive feedback.
Overall, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch offer unique subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Milk Tea switch focuses on a balanced and refined auditory experience with effortless key travel, the Shadow switch provides a more intense and tactile feedback with a medium-high level of tactility. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer distinct typing experiences that cater to different typing needs. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound profiles, key feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, consider your typing preferences and needs. If you prioritize a light bottom-out force, a gentle balance between sharp and muted sound, and a smooth typing experience, the Milk Tea switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-high level of tactility, deep thocks when typing, and a switch with a medium bottom-out force, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch could be the perfect fit for your typing style. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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