Cherry MX Silent Red vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Aflion Shadow Ink Double Spring stand out for their unique characteristics. The MX Silent Red offers a smoother, quieter typing experience compared to its counterpart, the MX Red, making it an ideal choice for noise-sensitive environments. On the other hand, the Shadow Ink Double Spring provides a tactile typing experience with a medium-high level of tactility, perfect for those who prefer a more pronounced key feel. While the MX Silent Red is categorized as muted, thocky, low-pitched, and textured, the Shadow Ink Double Spring is labeled as clacky, high-pitched, sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches, we see significant differences in their construction. The MX Silent Red features a nylon top and bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch uses a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, providing a sharper and crisper sound profile that is more resonant and clear. While both materials offer unique acoustic properties, they cater to different preferences in terms of sound feedback and typing experience.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches, they both excel in providing a tactile typing experience. The nylon housing of the MX Silent Red absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound profile that may appeal to those seeking a quieter typing experience. In contrast, the polycarbonate housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile, catering to users who prefer a more pronounced typing feedback. Overall, both switches offer distinctive sound profiles that can enhance the overall typing experience depending on personal preferences.
While the top and bottom housings of the Cherry MX Silent Red and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches differ in material composition, they ultimately contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, whereas the top housing impacts the sound when a key is released. Whether nylon or polycarbonate, both materials play a crucial role in shaping the acoustic feedback and typing experience of each switch, providing users with a range of options to suit their personal preferences and typing needs.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, it is clear that the MX Silent Red is the lighter option with an actuation force of 45 grams. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is the heavier option with an actuation force of 55 grams. Both switches do not provide information on the bottom out force, but it is assumed that the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring would require more force to bottom out due to its heavier actuation force. The lighter actuation force of the MX Silent Red may make it a preferred choice for those who type for extended periods of time or engage in long gaming sessions, while the heavier actuation force of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring may be more suitable for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, which is shorter than the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the MX Silent Red may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring may provide a more satisfying tactile experience for those who prefer a deeper key press. Both switches offer their own unique advantages, with users needing to choose based on their personal preferences for travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Silent Red has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Silent Red for $4.15.
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
In terms of sound, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch offers a muted and low-pitched experience, minimizing the noise associated with mechanical keyboards and providing a deep, rich thocky sound. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch produces a clacky and high-pitched sound, offering a sharp and crisp tone with deep resonating thocks when typing. The choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for sound, with the Silent Red offering a quieter typing experience, while the Shadow switch provides a more pronounced and distinct auditory feedback.
Moving on to feel, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch is described as having a textured feel, implying noticeable friction when pressed. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offers a sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped tactile experience. This means that the Shadow switch provides strong and crisp tactile feedback, with a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, along with a more responsive and lively typing experience. Meanwhile, the Silent Red switch may appeal to those who prefer a subtle texture while typing.
Overall, when considering the subjective qualities of the Cherry MX Silent Red and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches, it is evident that they offer distinct sound and feel profiles. The Silent Red switch stands out for its quiet operation and slightly textured feel, making it suitable for noise-sensitive environments. On the other hand, the Shadow switch excels in providing a sharp, clacky sound with deep thocks, coupled with a tactile experience that is sharp, snappy, and responsive. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch or the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, you should think about the specific characteristics that each switch offers. If you prioritize a silent typing experience with a slightly heftier feel, the Cherry MX Silent Red may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility, accompanied by deep and resonating thocks, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. Consider the environment in which you will be using the keyboard and how sensitive you are to noise levels. Both switches have unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience, so choose the one that aligns best with your individual needs and preferences.
Mentioned in this article
