Kailh NovelKeys Cream vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring. The Cream switches offer a heftier linear typing experience with a fairly deep sound profile, providing a buttery and low-pitched sensation when typing. On the other hand, the Shadow switches are known for their medium-high level of tactility, thanks to the long, two-staged spring. They produce deep and resonating thocks, giving a clacky and high-pitched feel. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that appeal to different typing preferences. However, to make the best decision, it's essential to delve deeper and explore the specific qualities of each switch.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
No
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
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches are quite different, resulting in distinct sound profiles. The NovelKeys Cream features POM (polyoxymethylene) top and bottom housings, which create a deeper, more muted sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches utilize polycarbonate top and bottom housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clearer and resonant sound, making it suitable for users seeking a more vibrant and lively auditory experience. However, both switches offer unique and pleasing sound characteristics, providing users with varied options based on their preferences.
In terms of aesthetics, the use of POM and polycarbonate in the top housing of these switches also differs. The NovelKeys Cream's POM top housing does not offer the translucency seen in the polycarbonate top housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring. The clear housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring allows for RGB lighting effects, making it an attractive choice for those who wish to incorporate lighting into their keyboard setup. The NovelKeys Cream, on the other hand, focuses more on the unique sound it produces rather than its visual appeal. While the materials used in the top housing differ, both switches prioritize delivering a satisfying typing experience, ensuring that users will obtain comparable results in terms of overall functionality.
When analyzing the impact of the housing materials on the typing experience, it is important to consider the division of qualities between the top and bottom housings. In both switches, the bottom housing has a more pronounced influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is fully pressed. The qualities of the POM or polycarbonate used in the bottom housing contribute to the sensation and sound experienced when pressing down on a key. Conversely, the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key after it has been pressed. This means that the POM or polycarbonate top housing will determine the final audible result when fingers leave the keys. Understanding this distinction allows users to assess which aspect of the typing experience is more significant to them and make an informed choice when selecting a switch that aligns with their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, there are a few key differences to note. The actuation force for both switches is the same, coming in at 55 grams, providing a consistent level of sensitivity for keystroke activation. However, the bottom out force varies between the two switches. The Kailh NovelKeys Cream has a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it slightly heavier and providing a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has a lower bottom out force of 63 grams, making it slightly lighter and potentially more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming sessions where extended periods of use are required. Overall, the NovelKeys Cream offers a heavier bottom out force, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offers a lighter bottom out force, catering to different preferences and typing styles.
Travel distance
The Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches will provide a similar tactile experience when pressed, as they both require the same amount of distance to be traveled from the top to the bottom. With a travel distance of 4 mm, users can expect a consistent and satisfying key press regardless of which switch they choose.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Kailh NovelKeys Cream has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the NovelKeys Cream for $6.25.
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
The Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch offers a heftier linear typing experience compared to other switches. When typing on these switches, you will notice a fairly deep sound profile, which is deeper than the average switch but not overly so. The sound is low-pitched and resonant, providing a clean and sharp auditory experience. The Cream switches provide a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, with a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. Overall, if you are looking for a linear switch with a deep sound profile and a buttery feel, the NovelKeys Cream is an excellent choice.
On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch offers a medium-high level of tactility. These switches feature a long, two-staged spring, providing a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be felt distinctly with each keypress. When typing on the Shadow switches, you will experience deep, resonating thocks, creating a clacky sound profile. The sound is high-pitched and clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. The feel of the Shadow switches is sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped. These switches offer a pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a lively, elastic feedback sensation. If you prefer a tactile switch with a sharp, clacky sound and a strong tactile bump, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is a great choice.
Comparing the two switches, the NovelKeys Cream offers a linear typing experience with a deep, low-pitched and resonant sound profile. It provides a smooth and buttery feel, creating a seamless and effortless typing sensation. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offers a tactile typing experience with a medium-high level of tactility. It produces a sharp, clacky sound profile and offers a sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped feel.
If you are looking for a linear switch with a deep sound and a smooth typing feel, the NovelKeys Cream is a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a sharp, clacky sound and a strong tactile bump, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is a great option. Keep in mind that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as your choice of keyboard board and keycaps. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities, providing satisfying typing experiences for different preferences.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when it comes to choosing between the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a deeper sound profile, the NovelKeys Cream is a great choice. On the other hand, if you are seeking a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility and enjoy a clacky, high-pitched sound, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is the perfect option. Consider the sound, feel, and desired typing experience when making your decision.
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