TTC Neptune vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the TTC Neptune and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Neptune and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring stand out for their unique characteristics. The TTC Neptune is a linear switch that offers a smooth and almost frictionless typing experience, with a springy resistance that gives each keystroke a textured pleasure. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility, providing a deep and thocky sound profile. While the Neptune excels in its ultralight design and muted sound signature, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is praised for its approachable tactility and lower actuation force. 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
41g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Neptune and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate in their bottom housings. This means that both switches will have a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, providing a visually appealing experience. While the bottom housing is more crucial for the bottom-out sound and feel of a key press, the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key.
However, a notable difference between the two switches lies in their top housings. The TTC Neptune features a POM top housing, which creates a deeper, more muted sound profile compared to the sharper and crisper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring. This variation in sound quality can significantly impact the overall typing experience for users who prefer a specific sound profile. Despite the differences in top housing materials, both switches offer a unique auditory experience, catering to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Neptune and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring will depend on individual preferences for sound profiles. While the Neptune's POM top housing provides a pleasing and unique sound that leans towards the deeper side, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound. Both switches excel in providing a clear and resonant sound profile, with the polycarbonate construction enhancing the overall typing experience. Whether one prefers a more muted sound or a sharper tone, both switches offer high-quality housing materials that contribute to a satisfying typing experience.
Weight
The TTC Neptune linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 41 grams compared to the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch with an actuation force of 48 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Neptune requires 50 grams, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring requires 55 grams. The Neptune provides a lighter typing experience overall, making it suitable for those who prefer a softer touch. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offers a slightly heavier feel, providing a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to users who prefer varying levels of resistance.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the TTC Neptune linear switch is 3.8 mm, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Neptune linear switch. The 0.2 mm difference may not seem like much, but it can affect the overall feel and response of the switch. Those who prefer a more responsive and quicker keypress may lean towards the TTC Neptune linear switch with its shorter travel distance, while individuals who enjoy a deeper keypress experience may opt for the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the type of typing or gaming experience desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Neptune has an MSRP of $7.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Neptune for $5.09.
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
In terms of sound, the TTC Neptune linear switch is best characterized by its low-pitched, muted, neutral, subdued sound profile, offering a refined and unobtrusive typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch provides a deep and thocky sound profile, creating a more pronounced auditory feedback. When it comes to feel, the Neptune offers a buttery, gummy, frictionless, mild, and polished typing experience, ensuring a smooth and textured pleasure with every keystroke. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like sensation with lively feedback. Overall, while the Neptune excels in providing a unique blend of smoothness and resistance, along with a muted sound signature, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch offers a more pronounced tactile feedback and a thocky sound profile. Each switch caters to different preferences, with the Neptune focusing on a harmonious balance and the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring providing a more lively tactile experience for users. It is important to consider personal preferences and typing style when choosing between these two switches to find the one that best suits your needs.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when choosing between the TTC Neptune linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you value a smooth and effortless typing feel with a unique "matte" texture and a light bottom out force, the TTC Neptune may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with medium tactility, lower actuation and bottom-out force, along with a deep and thocky sound profile, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch would be a great fit. Both switches offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel, so it ultimately comes down to your personal preference in typing experience.
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