Gateron Mini i vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mini i and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Mini i and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring. The Gateron Mini i switches are praised for their gentle tactility, making them perfect for office environments where a quiet and professional typing experience is desired. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches offer a medium level of tactility along with a deep and thocky sound profile, catering to those who prefer a bit more feedback in their keystrokes. While the Mini i switches are lightweight and easy-to-press, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches provide a more distinct tactile feel. 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
40g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Mini i and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, the nylon top housing of the Mini i provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound, whereas the stiffness of polycarbonate leads to a clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for showcasing RGB lighting, while nylon offers a classic look.
Moving to the bottom housings, both the Mini i and the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring share similarities in their housing materials. The nylon bottom housing of the Mini i and the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring both contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nature of both materials absorbs sound effectively, resulting in a rounder sound. The impact of the bottom housing is more pronounced during the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, showcasing the qualities of the housing material.
Overall, while the Mini i and the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring housing materials differ in their top housing compositions, they both offer distinct sound profiles based on the nature of the materials used. The choice between the nylon and polycarbonate top housing will depend on the sound profile desired, with nylon offering a deeper and fuller sound, while polycarbonate provides a sharper and crisper tone. Despite this difference, both switches share similar qualities in their bottom housings, resulting in comparable sound profiles that offer a satisfying typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, there are noticeable differences. The Mini i has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's 48 grams, making the Mini i easier to trigger keystrokes with. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Mini i requires 50 grams while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring needs 55 grams, making the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring slightly heavier when fully pressed. Both switches provide a comfortable typing experience, but the lighter actuation force of the Mini i may be preferred for longer typing sessions, while the slightly heavier Shadow (Ink) Single Spring may appeal to those looking for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it shorter than the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Mini i offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch provides a more substantial depth with its longer travel distance, which some users may prefer for a more tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Gateron Mini i comes in at $6.00 per 10 switches.
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 Gateron Mini i features a fairly muted sound profile that allows for quiet and professional typing, making it suitable for office environments. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offers a deeper and thocky sound profile, providing a unique auditory experience that some users may prefer. Both switches provide a satisfying feedback while typing, ensuring a pleasant typing experience regardless of your preference in sound.
When it comes to feel, both the Gateron Mini i and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches are described as bouncy, providing a spring-like sensation and rebound when pressed. The Gateron Mini i is also considered easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance and requiring minimal force to activate, enhancing typing comfort and reducing finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions. The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, on the other hand, is not further described in terms of feel, but the bouncy characteristic indicates a similar typing experience to the Gateron Mini i in terms of tactile feedback.
Overall, both the Gateron Mini i and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Gateron Mini i provides a subtle and neutral sound profile with an easy-to-press and bouncy feel, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offers a deeper and thocky sound with a bouncy feel. Depending on your preference for sound and typing experience, either switch can provide a satisfying and comfortable typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Mini i tactile switch or the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing needs. If you value a lighter actuation force and a quiet typing experience, the Gateron Mini i may be the better choice for you, especially if you work in a shared office environment where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light actuation force with a thocky sound profile and a slightly more tactile typing experience, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch might be more up your alley. Both switches offer their own unique qualities and benefits, so it's important to consider what matters most to you when making your decision. Ultimately, whether you go with the Mini i or the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, you can't go wrong with either choice as both switches are popular for a reason.
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