Cherry MX Speed Silver vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to comparing the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring mechanical keyboard switches, we see a clear distinction in their key characteristics. The MX Speed Silver, a linear switch, is tailored for those who prioritize lightning-fast response times, making it ideal for gamers looking for an edge in competitive gameplay. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, a tactile switch, offers a satisfying level of tactility with deep thocks, making it a popular choice for typists who enjoy a more pronounced 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
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
1.20 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
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches, we can see that both switches have unique characteristics due to their different materials. The MX Speed Silver features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Aflion Shadow's polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper and crisper sound. Both materials have their advantages, with nylon absorbing more sound and creating a rounder sound, while polycarbonate is stiffer and leads to a more resonant sound.
Moving on to the bottom housing, we can see a similar pattern in the differences between the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches. The MX Speed Silver's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, while the Aflion Shadow's polycarbonate bottom housing creates a sharper and crisper sound. Just like with the top housing, nylon's softer properties and sound absorption contrast with polycarbonate's stiffer composition and clear resonant sound profile.
Overall, while the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches have different housing materials for both the top and bottom, they ultimately offer distinct sound profiles and typing experiences. The choice between nylon and polycarbonate housing will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, with nylon providing a deeper and rounder sound, and polycarbonate offering a sharper and more resonant sound. In both cases, the materials used in the housing play a significant role in the overall typing experience and sound of the switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, it is evident that the Speed Silver is the lighter option with an actuation force of 30 grams, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is the heavier choice with an actuation force of 55 grams. The Speed Silver does not have a listed bottom out force, whereas the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has a bottom out force of 63 grams. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the MX Speed Silver for extended typing or gaming sessions, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may opt for the heavier Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, providing users with a range of options to suit their typing needs.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it shorter than the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The MX Speed Silver 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) Double Spring switch provides a deeper key press feel with its longer travel distance, which may be preferred by some users who enjoy a more robust typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key press depth and response time.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Speed Silver has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Speed Silver 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
In terms of sound, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch is known for its low-pitched and thocky sound profile, offering a deep and satisfying sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is characterized by a clacky and high-pitched sound, providing a sharp and crisp sound with each keypress. When it comes to feel, the MX Speed Silver switch is described as textured, offering a unique friction when pressed, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is known for its sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped tactile feedback, providing a responsive and lively typing experience.
Considering the information provided, the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. Gamers looking for a fast and responsive linear switch with a deep thocky sound may opt for the MX Speed Silver. On the other hand, individuals seeking a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility and a sharp, clacky sound may prefer the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference, typing style, and the desired gaming or typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch or the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, think about your priorities and preferences. If you are a gamer looking for lightning-fast response times and a smooth, linear action, the MX Speed Silver may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a tactile typing experience with a medium-high level of tactility and enjoy the deep thocks and sharp feedback of a double-spring switch, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch might be the better fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your individual typing style, preference for switch sound and feel, and specific requirements for your keyboard usage.
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