Haimu Neo White vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the Haimu Neo White and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Haimu Neo White linear switch with the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, it's clear that they each offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Neo White stands out for its medium weight and smooth actuation, providing a satisfying typing experience with slightly reduced total travel. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offers a medium level of tactility with a lower actuation and bottom-out force, creating a bouncy feel and a deep, thocky sound profile. If you prefer a smooth and neutral typing experience, the Neo White may be the ideal choice. However, if you appreciate a more tactile feel with a unique sound profile, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring could be the perfect fit. 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
N/A
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
58g
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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Haimu Neo White and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, both keyboards feature a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which creates a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. However, the key difference lies in the bottom housing material used. The Neo White utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softness and ability to absorb sound. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which continues to contribute to the sharp and crisp sound profile associated with polycarbonate.
While the top housing materials of the two switches are the same, the differences in bottom housing materials create distinct sound profiles. The nylon bottom housing of the Neo White provides a duller and rounder sound, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring maintains the sharp and clear sound characteristic of polycarbonate. The impact of the bottom housing is felt when pressing down on the switch, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both switches leverage the qualities of their respective housing materials to create unique auditory experiences for users.
Overall, the Haimu Neo White and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring showcase the importance of housing materials in determining sound profiles in mechanical keyboards. While both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing for a sharp and crisp sound, the distinction in bottom housing materials results in varying sound profiles. The nylon bottom housing of the Neo White produces a deeper and fuller sound, contrasting with the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring. Ultimately, the combination of these different housing materials leads to distinctive typing experiences for users of each keyboard.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Haimu Neo White linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, it is evident that the Neo White has a higher bottom out force of 58 grams compared to the Shadow's 55 grams, making the Neo White the heavier option. However, when it comes to actuation force, the Shadow requires 48 grams to trigger a keystroke, whereas the Neo White's actuation force is not specified. This makes the Shadow the lighter option in terms of actuation force. The lighter actuation force of the Shadow may appeal to those who prefer a more effortless typing experience, while the heavier bottom out force of the Neo White may be favored by those who prefer a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preference for typing experience and desired force feedback.
Travel distance
The Haimu Neo White linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6mm, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch has a travel distance of 4mm. In this case, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Neo White switch. The Neo White switch would be considered the shorter option, which may be preferred by gamers for its faster response times. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) switch with the longer travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a deeper and more substantial key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and key feel.
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 Haimu Neo White comes in at $2.70 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
When it comes to sound, the Haimu Neo White linear switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch features a deep and thocky sound profile, providing a satisfying auditory experience for those who enjoy a more pronounced sound. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the Haimu Neo White switch provides a mild typing experience, making it gentle on the fingers and suitable for extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch offers a bouncy feel, giving users a spring-like feedback sensation with lively rebound when the keys are pressed. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences, catering to different preferences in typing feel.
Overall, the Haimu Neo White linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch provide distinct qualities in sound and feel. If you prefer a neutral sound profile and a mild typing experience, the Neo White switch would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a deep and thocky sound with bouncy tactile feedback, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch may be more to your liking. Ultimately, the right choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel while typing.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a smooth and satisfying typing experience with a medium weight switch and a slightly reduced total travel, the Haimu Neo White linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility and a deep, thocky sound profile, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch would be the way to go. Both switches offer their own unique feel and sound, so it ultimately comes down to your personal preference in terms of typing experience. Consider your typing style and preferences when deciding between these two switches to find the one that best suits you.
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