Cherry Nixie vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the Cherry Nixie and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry Nixie and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring are two popular options that cater to different preferences. The Cherry Nixie is a linear switch known for its substantial heft and textured typing experience, offering a 'Thocky' and 'Low-pitched' feel that appeals to enthusiasts seeking a more traditional yet innovative switch. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is a tactile switch that provides a medium level of tactility, with a 'Bouncy' feel that offers a lower actuation and bottom-out force for a comfortable typing experience. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, making them suitable options for different types of users. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
55g
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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Cherry Nixie and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, we can see that the Nixie utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housing, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring opts for polycarbonate for both components. The nylon housing of the Nixie offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the polycarbonate housing of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, as polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that leads to a clear and resonant sound.
However, when looking specifically at the top housing of the two switches, we see a significant difference in material. The Nixie's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring creates a sharper and more resonant sound. Aesthetically, the clear polycarbonate top housing of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring allows for RGB lighting effects, enhancing the visual appeal of the switch. While the bottom housings of both switches maintain consistent characteristics based on their respective materials, the differing top housings play a key role in the overall sound profile and aesthetics of the switches.
In summary, the housing materials of the Cherry Nixie and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring have distinct qualities that impact the sound profile and aesthetic appeal of the switches. The Nixie's nylon housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's polycarbonate housing creates a sharper and more resonant sound. Additionally, the polycarbonate top housing of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring provides the added benefit of allowing for RGB lighting effects, enhancing the visual experience of using the switch. Despite their differences, both switches showcase the importance of housing materials in determining the overall feel and sound of mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, it is evident that the Nixie is the heavier option. The Nixie has an actuation force of 63.5 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it the lighter choice. The Nixie provides a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier forces, which some users may prefer for a more tactile feel. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offers a lighter typing experience, which is ideal for those who need to type for extended periods without fatigue. Both switches offer reliable actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to achieve similar results regardless of their preference for lighter or heavier typing experiences.
Travel distance
The Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key using either switch, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. This can provide a consistent typing experience regardless of which switch is being used. Overall, both switches offer a moderate travel distance that may be preferred by individuals who enjoy a tactile typing feel without excessive key travel.
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 $4.19.
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
When it comes to sound, the Cherry Nixie linear switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched characteristics, producing a deep and pleasing sound when pressed. On the other hand, information on the sound profile of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is not provided. Both switches may offer a different sound experience based on the user's choice of keyboard and keycaps, so personal preference plays a significant role in deciding which switch suits your auditory preferences.
As for feel, the Cherry Nixie linear switch is described as having a textured typing experience, which can add a unique tactile sensation during use. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is noted for its bouncy feedback, providing a lively and elastic sensation when pressing the keys. Again, individual preferences will dictate whether you prefer the textured feel of the Nixie or the bouncy feedback of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch.
Overall, the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Nixie is known for its deep, thocky sound and textured typing experience, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch provides a bouncy feedback sensation. Both switches incorporate modern innovations and materials, making them popular choices within the mechanical keyboard community. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference in sound and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a heavier and more textured typing experience with a deep, thocky sound profile, the Cherry Nixie linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a lighter tactile switch with a medium level of tactility and a bouncy feel, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch would suit your preferences better. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize typing feel, sound profile, and actuation force in your mechanical keyboard switches.
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