PH Studio Milk Tea vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Milk Tea and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch with the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, some distinct differences emerge. The Milk Tea switch is renowned for its high-pitched yet muted sound, offering a gentle balance between presence and subtlety. With a lightweight bottom-out force of 43.5g and a stem material made of Ly, it caters to prolonged typing sessions with effortless keystrokes. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch by Aflion provides a medium level of tactility and a lower actuation and bottom-out force, making it ideal for those seeking a more approachable tactile experience. Additionally, it boasts a deep and thocky sound profile. Each switch has its own unique characteristics and benefits, catering to different preferences and typing needs. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
43.5g
Bottom-out force
55g
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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the PH Studio Milk Tea and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, we see that the Milk Tea is equipped with POM top and bottom housings, while the Shadow (Ink) features polycarbonate housings for both the top and bottom. The POM top housing of the Milk Tea creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, whereas the polycarbonate top housing of the Shadow (Ink) produces a sharper and crisper sound. This difference in sound quality is attributed to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which lends itself to a more resonant sound compared to POM.
On the other hand, the POM bottom housing of the Milk Tea similarly offers a deep and muted sound profile, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) provides a sharper and higher-pitched sound. Again, the stiffness of polycarbonate plays a crucial role in creating a clear and resonant sound profile on the Shadow (Ink). Additionally, the use of polycarbonate in the bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) ensures a consistent sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, enhancing the overall typing experience.
Overall, while the housing materials of the PH Studio Milk Tea and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring differ in terms of POM and polycarbonate, respectively, both switches offer distinct sound profiles based on their top and bottom housing materials. The POM housings of the Milk Tea provide a unique and pleasing sound, while the polycarbonate housings of the Shadow (Ink) offer a sharper and crisper sound. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, users can choose between the deeper, more muted sound of POM or the sharper, higher-pitched sound of polycarbonate for their typing experience.
Weight
The PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch has a lighter actuation and bottom out force compared to the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch. The Milk Tea requires 37.5 grams of force to actuate and 43.5 grams to bottom out, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring needs 48 grams to actuate and 55 grams to bottom out. This makes the Milk Tea more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring provides a slightly more substantial typing experience with its higher actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches offer different levels of resistance, catering to users with varying preferences in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on whether one prefers a lighter or slightly heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, it is evident that the Milk Tea has a shorter travel distance at 3.6 mm, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has a longer travel distance at 4 mm. The Milk Tea's shorter travel distance may cater more to gamers looking for quicker response times, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's longer travel distance may provide a more substantial keypress experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for keypress depth and responsiveness.
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) 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
When it comes to sound, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch is best described as high-pitched and somewhat clacky, offering a unique auditory experience that strikes a balance between sharpness and subtlety. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is noted for its deep and thocky sound profile, providing a rich auditory experience that complements its tactile feedback. While the Milk Tea leans towards a more resonant and marbly sound, the Shadow switch offers a different but equally satisfying sound experience.
In terms of feel, the Milk Tea switch is known for its polished and silky typing experience, offering a smooth and refined feel with reduced friction. This enhances the overall typing experience, making it effortless and comfortable for prolonged use. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch provides a bouncy feel, giving keys a spring-like feedback sensation that adds a lively touch to typing sessions. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences, catering to different preferences in typing feel.
In conclusion, while the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities, they both excel in providing users with a satisfying typing experience. Whether you prefer a high-pitched, clacky sound with a polished and silky feel, or a deep and thocky sound with a bouncy tactile feedback, both switches are designed to enhance your typing sessions and cater to different typing styles. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch or the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prefer a light bottom-out force and a unique auditory blend with a high-pitched yet muted sound, the Milk Tea may be the ideal choice for you, especially if you engage in prolonged typing sessions. On the other hand, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility, a lower actuation and bottom-out force, and a deep and thocky sound profile, then the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring may be more suitable for your typing style. Keep in mind the sound and feel descriptors provided for each switch to help guide your decision. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns best with your preferences and typing habits for an optimal typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
