Cherry Nixie vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Cherry Nixie and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch stand out as popular choices within the community. The Cherry Nixie is known for its substantial heft and textured typing experience, blending tradition with modern innovation thanks to Cherry's recent MX2A update. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offers a high level of tactility with its long, two-staged spring, resulting in deep, resonating thocks while typing. Both switches have their unique characteristics - the Nixie is described as 'Thocky' and 'Low-pitched' while 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 best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
63.5g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Gold-plated
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Cherry Nixie and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, it is evident that they both prioritize sound profile but achieve different results. The Nixie's nylon top and bottom housing both aim to create a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon, absorbing more sound and producing a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Shadow Double Spring's polycarbonate top and bottom housing strive for a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile as polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that leads to more clear and resonant sound. This contrast highlights how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the typing experience and overall sound output of a mechanical keyboard switch.
While the Nixie and Shadow switches differ in their choice of housing materials, they both cater to specific preferences and aesthetics. The Nixie's nylon housing provides a classic and timeless feel, offering a deeper sound profile that may appeal to those looking for a more subdued typing experience. In contrast, the Shadow's polycarbonate housing offers a modern and sleek look, with a focus on creating a sharper and more resonant sound that is especially ideal for users interested in RGB lighting effects. Despite their differences, both switches demonstrate the importance of housing materials in shaping the overall sound and feel of a keyboard switch.
Ultimately, the decision between the Cherry Nixie and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches may come down to personal preference and desired typing experience. The Nixie's nylon housing caters to those seeking a softer, fuller sound profile, while the Shadow's polycarbonate housing appeals to users looking for a sharper, crisper sound output. However, it is essential to consider how the top and bottom housings of a switch can impact the overall typing experience, as each plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and feel of the switch. Whether opting for the deeper sound of nylon or the clearer sound of polycarbonate, both switches offer unique qualities that contribute to a customized typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, it is evident that the Nixie is heavier than the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring. The Nixie has an actuation force of 63.5 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams. This makes the Nixie better suited for those who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is ideal for those who prefer a lighter actuation force for longer typing periods. Both switches offer a unique typing experience, with the Nixie providing a heavier touch and the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offering a lighter touch for smoother typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for typing experience and weight preference.
Travel distance
Both the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch have a travel distance of 4mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. This makes them equal in terms of the distance they travel from the top to the bottom when activated. They both offer a consistent and satisfying typing experience for users who appreciate a shorter travel distance in their switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry Nixie has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Nixie 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
When it comes to sound, the Cherry Nixie linear switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched characteristics, providing a deep and satisfying typing experience with a bass-heavy tone. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, delivering sharp and crisp feedback with a bright and percussive tone. Depending on personal preference, the Nixie switch may be preferred for a more mellow sound, while the Shadow switch could be favored for a sharper and more energetic auditory response.
In terms of feel, the Cherry Nixie linear switch is described as textured, offering notable friction when pressed which some users may appreciate for a unique typing experience. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch is known for its sharp and accented feedback, providing a distinct tactile bump with a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Additionally, the Shadow switch is characterized as snappy, bouncy, and stepped, offering a super responsive and lively typing sensation with a two-staged spring design for enhanced feedback.
Overall, the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch provide distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community. While the Nixie switch offers a deep and textured typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, the Shadow switch delivers a sharp and snappy feedback with high-pitched tones and medium tactile bump. Depending on whether one prefers a smoother or more textured feel, and a mellow or sharp sound, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance the typing experience based on individual preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, you should consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a heavier switch with a deep "thocky" sound and a textured typing experience, the Cherry Nixie may be more suitable for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-bottom out force switch with a sharp "clacky" sound and a tactile typing experience with options like a strong and crisp tactile bump, dual-staged springs for a more responsive feel, or an elastic feedback sensation for a bouncy feel, then the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch would be a better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking to achieve.
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