Kailh NovelKeys Cream vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single 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, a linear switch, and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, a tactile switch. The Cream switches provide a heftier linear typing experience and have a deep sound profile that adds a satisfying texture to each keypress. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offers a medium level of tactility, making it a great choice for those who prefer a more pronounced feedback. Additionally, these switches deliver a deep and thocky sound profile, enhancing the overall typing experience. However, let's dive into the details of each switch to make an informed decision based on individual preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring differ in terms of the sound profile they create. The NovelKeys Cream features a POM top housing and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper, more muted sound. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring utilizes a polycarbonate top housing and bottom housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound. Additionally, the polycarbonate top housing is translucent, making it ideal for utilizing RGB lighting if desired. Therefore, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring would provide a more vibrant and lively auditory experience compared to the NovelKeys Cream.
In terms of aesthetics, the NovelKeys Cream and the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring also diverge due to their housing materials. While both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housings, the NovelKeys Cream's POM bottom housing provides a different visual appeal. POM is not translucent, giving the switch a more solid and opaque appearance. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has a polycarbonate bottom housing, maintaining the translucent quality. Switches with clear housing are more commonly made with polycarbonate, allowing for enhanced visibility of the internal mechanisms and compatibility with RGB lighting. Therefore, if aesthetics and the use of lighting are important considerations, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring would be the preferred choice.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the qualities of the housing materials are distributed differently between the top and bottom housings. The NovelKeys Cream's bottom housing would have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and overall feel when the switch is pressed. Conversely, the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. This means that with the NovelKeys Cream, users can expect a slightly softer and more muted bottom-out feel, while the sound upon key release may still retain some depth. On the other hand, with the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, the ever-so-slightly stiffer polycarbonate bottom housing would contribute to a more tactile and pronounced bottom-out experience, complementing the sharper and clearer sound profile. The release of the key would likely have a crisper and more resonant sound due to the polycarbonate top housing. Overall, users can anticipate more distinct and defined feedback from the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, while the NovelKeys Cream offers a smoother and potentially quieter typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, it is clear that there are differences in their weight characteristics. The NovelKeys Cream has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's 48 grams, making it a bit more resistant to triggering a keystroke. Similarly, the bottom out force of the NovelKeys Cream is 70 grams, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring requires a lighter 55 grams to fully depress.
These differences in weight can have implications for different users' preferences. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch would be more suitable as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out. This lighter weight can be advantageous for extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions, providing a more effortless and comfortable keystroke.
On the other hand, if a user prefers a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the NovelKeys Cream would be a better choice. With a slightly heavier actuation force and bottom out force, it provides a more tactile feedback and a sense of solidity during typing. This can be preferred by individuals who appreciate a more pronounced keystroke response and a more substantial feeling while using the keyboard.
It is worth noting that although the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the NovelKeys Cream have different weight characteristics, they both fall into the medium range. Therefore, regardless of the user's preference for a lighter or heavier switch, both options can provide a satisfactory typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would depend on personal preference and the desired typing feel for each individual user.
Travel distance
Both the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance of travel. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, you can expect similar results from both switches.
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) 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 Kailh NovelKeys Cream switch offers a deeper sound profile compared to the average switch, but it is not overly deep. This low-pitched sound delivers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, providing a pleasant and immersive typing experience. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is unknown. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used. However, if you are looking for a low-pitched, bass-heavy sound, the NovelKeys Cream is a good choice.
In terms of feel, the NovelKeys Cream switch provides a buttery typing experience. This means that the keystrokes feel smooth, fluid, and effortless, creating a seamless and uniform sensation. It is also worth mentioning that the NovelKeys Cream switch is not described as textured or scratchy, indicating a preference for a smoother and friction-free typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation. This gives the keys a lively and responsive feel, offering a rebound effect when pressed.
Taking all the available information into consideration, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switch is known for its heftier linear typing experience, deep sound profile, and buttery feel. It offers a low-pitched sound and a smooth keystroke experience without any noticeable friction. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is recommended for those seeking a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility. While its sound profile is unknown, it is described as bouncy, giving the keys a lively feel. If you are looking for a linear switch with a deep sound and buttery feel, the NovelKeys Cream is a great option. If you prefer a tactile switch with a bouncy feel, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch would be a suitable choice. It is important to keep in mind that personal preferences, the keyboard, and keycaps used can also influence the overall typing experience.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch both have their unique qualities that make them suitable for different individuals and preferences. The NovelKeys Cream is an excellent choice if you prefer a medium-heavy linear typing experience with a deeper sound profile. It offers a buttery and textured feel, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with noticeable friction. The Cream switch also has a low-pitched and resonant sound profile, which delivers a bass-heavy and mellow tone with a clean and sharp auditory experience. On the other hand, if you are seeking a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is the switch for you. With a lower actuation and bottom-out force, it offers a more approachable tactility. The Shadow switch features a deep and thocky sound profile, but the exact description is not provided. Additionally, it has a bouncy feel, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation with a lively rebound when pressed. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches depends on your desired typing experience, sound profile preference, and tactile feedback preference.
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