Haimu Orange Sea vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Haimu Orange Sea and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the world of mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can significantly impact your typing experience. The Haimu Orange Sea switches stand out for their impeccably smooth feel and neutral sound signature, making them an excellent choice for those who prioritize a fluid typing experience without distractions. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches cater to tactile enthusiasts, offering a medium-high level of tactility and producing deep, resonating thocks with each keystroke, thanks to their unique long, two-staged spring design. While the Orange Sea is ideal for users who seek a linear switch that allows for rapid typing, the Shadow switch appeals to those who enjoy the satisfying feedback of a tactile response. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
The Haimu Orange Sea and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which sets the foundation for a similar auditory experience. Polycarbonate is known for producing a higher-pitched and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This quality not only enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced when typing but also makes the switches ideal for RGB lighting applications. The translucency of the polycarbonate material allows for greater visibility of LED effects, making both switches a visually appealing option for those who prioritize aesthetics in addition to performance.
In contrast, the bottom housing materials differ significantly between the two switches. The Orange Sea employs nylon for its bottom housing, which contributes a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon’s softer properties absorb sound more effectively compared to harder materials, yielding a "duller" and rounder auditory experience. Meanwhile, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring features polycarbonate for its bottom housing, mirroring the sharper sound profile of its top housing. As a result, while the top housings for both switches foster clarity and brightness in sound, the bottoms diverge, with the Orange Sea offering a more muted sound due to the nylon's acoustical properties.
This combination of materials leads to distinct yet complementary sound profiles in each switch. The Haimu Orange Sea's nylon bottom adds depth and fullness, affecting the bottom-out feel and sound, while its polycarbonate top emphasizes a sharper release sound. Conversely, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring maintains a uniform sonic clarity through both housing types, which may contribute to a more consistent auditory experience. Overall, both switches present unique blends of materials that influence both the sound and feel, allowing users to select based on their preferences for auditory feedback and aesthetic appeal.
Weight
When comparing the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Orange Sea features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it easier to press and ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, offering a more substantial push feel that some users prefer for a more tactile typing experience. Consequently, while the Orange Sea caters to those who favor a lighter touch, the Shadow (Ink) appeals to users who enjoy a firmer keystroke. Overall, these differences suggest that users should choose their switch based on their personal preferences for typing feel and comfort.
Travel distance
The Haimu Orange Sea linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch has a notably longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference in distance highlights the contrasting characteristics of the two switches: the Orange Sea's shorter travel distance makes it more suited for users who prioritize quick response times, appealing particularly to gamers who benefit from the swifter actuation. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) with its longer travel distance offers a more traditional feel, providing a depth that may be preferred by those who enjoy a more tactile experience during typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on personal preference—if you favor responsiveness, the Orange Sea's 3.6 mm travel distance will yield similar results as the Shadow (Ink) in terms of actuation speed, but the latter's 4 mm travel distance will deliver a more satisfying depth for users who appreciate a more pronounced key press.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Haimu Orange Sea comes in at $2.79 per 10 switches.
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 Haimu Orange Sea switches are characterized by a neutral sound signature, producing a balanced auditory profile that is neither disruptive nor overly loud. This makes them an excellent choice for environments where noise levels need to be kept in check, such as shared workspaces or during late-night gaming sessions. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches create deep, resonating thocks that can be classified as clacky and high-pitched. This auditory experience is distinct and may appeal to those who enjoy a more pronounced sound when typing, adding an element of liveliness that some users find enjoyable.
In terms of feel, the Orange Sea switches offer an impeccably smooth typing experience that many users appreciate, allowing for fluid key presses without hindrance. This smoothness can be particularly rewarding for long typing sessions, as it minimizes fatigue. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches provide a medium to high level of tactility characterized by sharp and snappy feedback. Their dual-stage spring enhances the tactile response and creates a bouncy feel, making each keypress feel lively and responsive. This is an appealing feature for users who favor a more interactive and engaging typing experience.
Overall, the Haimu Orange Sea and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches cater to different preferences in both sound and feel. The Orange Sea is ideal for those who prioritize a smooth and subdued typing experience, while the Shadow switches appeal to users who desire pronounced tactile feedback and a rich sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these two options will largely depend on personal typing style and auditory preferences, as both switches can provide satisfying results based on what the user is seeking.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch should hinge on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound profile, as well as the force required to actuate each switch. If you prefer a lighter touch with a smooth and consistent keystroke, the Haimu Orange Sea's 45-gram actuation force will allow for effortless typing, making it an excellent choice for fast typists or gamers who want to minimize finger fatigue. The neutral sound signature also suits those in quieter environments or those who favor a more subdued typing experience. On the other hand, if you enjoy a pronounced tactile feedback that signals each keypress, the 63-gram actuation force of the Shadow (Ink) offers a medium resistance that can enhance your typing experience, especially for those who appreciate the sharpness and clarity of a tactile switch. The clacky, high-pitched sound profile adds an engaging auditory layer that can make typing feel more rewarding. Ultimately, consider your typing style and the environments in which you'll be using your keyboard. If you desire smoothness and minimal distraction, go with the Orange Sea, but if you crave tactility and a more dynamic typing experience, the Shadow (Ink) is your switch of choice.
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