Outemu Black vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the Outemu Black and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Black and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offer distinct experiences for users. The Outemu Black is a linear switch, known for its smooth keystrokes and consistent feel throughout typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is a tactile switch that provides a satisfying bump when pressed, making it ideal for those who prefer a more tactile typing experience. If you are looking for a switch with a medium level of tactility, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is highly recommended. It boasts a lower actuation and bottom-out force, resulting in a comfortable yet responsive typing experience. Additionally, it features a deep and thocky sound profile that enhances the overall typing experience. 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
65g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.50 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Black and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because of polycarbonate's stiffness, which creates a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal. The similarity in top housing material between these switches means that users can expect a consistent sound profile and performance in this aspect.
In contrast, the Outemu Black utilizes a nylon bottom housing while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing. The nylon bottom housing on the Black contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing on the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring maintains the sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile associated with the material's stiffness. This difference in bottom housing materials can impact the typing experience and overall sound output of each switch.
When considering the impact of housing materials on the overall typing experience, it is important to recognize that the qualities of each material will be felt differently. The bottom housing material will have a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing material will affect the sound when releasing a key. This distinction means that despite both switches featuring polycarbonate top housings, the choice of bottom housing material can result in a noticeable difference in typing feel and sound between the Outemu Black and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Black linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch reveals a significant difference in weight. The Outemu Black has a heavier actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 82 grams, providing a substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch offers a lighter actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. The Black switch is better suited for individuals who enjoy a stronger push feel, while the Shadow switch is more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. Both switches offer unique benefits depending on individual preferences, with the Black switch providing a heavier feel and the Shadow switch offering a lighter touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Black linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience a consistent travel distance from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance ensures that users will receive equally satisfying feedback when using either switch. Overall, the travel distance of both switches is equal, providing a similar typing experience for individuals who prefer linear or tactile switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Outemu Black comes in at $3.10 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 comparing the sound of the Outemu Black linear switch to the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, the Black switch is often considered to produce a quieter sound compared to the deep and thocky sound profile of the Shadow switch. The Black switch may be more suitable for those who prefer a quieter typing experience, while the Shadow switch is favored by those who enjoy a more pronounced and satisfying sound while typing.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Black linear switch is known for its smooth and consistent keystrokes without tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like and elastic feedback sensation with a medium level of tactility. This bouncy feel can offer a lively typing experience with a tactile response that enhances the overall typing feel.
Taking all the available information into consideration, if you are seeking a quieter typing experience with smooth keystrokes, the Outemu Black linear switch may be the better choice for you. However, if you prefer a more tactile and pronounced typing experience with a bouncy feel and deep sound profile, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch would be a suitable option. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel while typing.
Conclusion
In summary, if you are looking for a heavy linear switch, the Outemu Black would be a good choice due to its 82-gram bottom out force. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light tactile switch with a more approachable tactility, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring would be a great option with its 55-gram bottom out force. The Shadow switch also offers a bouncy feel and a deep, thocky sound profile which may appeal to those looking for a unique typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for actuation force, switch type, sound, and feel.
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