Outemu Blue vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Outemu Blue and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Blue and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offer distinct typing experiences. The Outemu Blue switch is a clicky switch known for its audible click sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility, offering a unique typing experience with deep, resonating thocks. While the Blue switch provides a satisfying clicking sensation, the Shadow switch offers a more tactile and responsive feel. 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
50g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Blue and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches, it is evident that both switches feature polycarbonate top housings. Therefore, users can expect a similar sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile from both switches, along with the added benefit of translucency for RGB lighting effects. However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing materials. The Blue switch utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer plastic absorbing more sound. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch features a polycarbonate bottom housing, contributing to a sharper and clearer sound profile with a more resonant quality.
Despite both switches sharing a polycarbonate top housing, the impact of the switch housing materials is distributed differently between the top and bottom housings. When pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the bottom housing material will be felt, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. In this scenario, the nylon bottom housing of the Outemu Blue will produce a deeper and fuller sound, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring will contribute to a sharper and crisper sound experience. Conversely, the top housing material will have a more significant impact on the sound when releasing a key, highlighting the contrast in sound profile between the two switches based on their housing materials.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, we see that the Blue has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Shadow's 55 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Shadow is heavier at 63 grams, while the bottom out force of the Blue is unknown. This means that while the Blue may require less force to register a keystroke, the Shadow provides a more substantial typing experience with its higher bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Blue switch, while those who prefer a more pronounced tactile response may choose the Shadow. In both cases, users can expect similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces when considering their individual preferences for typing or gaming experiences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, both switches have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, the user will experience a similar distance traveled from the top to the bottom. As a result, the typing experience with both switches will likely feel consistent in terms of the travel distance. Overall, both switches provide a tactile feedback while typing, with the Outemu Blue clicky switch offering a clicky feel and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch providing a double spring mechanism for added tactility.
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 Outemu Blue 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 it comes to sound, the Outemu Blue clicky switch is typically known for its loud and clicky noise, often likened to the sound of a typewriter. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch is described as producing a deep, resonating thock sound when pressed, with a clacky and high-pitched profile. While the Blue switch offers a classic clicky sound that is great for those who enjoy audible feedback, the Shadow switch provides a different, lower-pitched tone that may appeal to users looking for a more muted typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Blue switch is known for its tactile feedback and audible click, providing a satisfying typing experience. In comparison, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch offers a medium-high level of tactility with a sharp, accented, snappy, and bouncy feel. The long, two-staged spring in the Shadow switch adds to the tactile bump, making each keypress feel distinct and responsive. This switch is ideal for those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile sensation without the overwhelming intensity of some other tactile switches.
Overall, while the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch offer different sound and feel profiles, they both provide unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences. If you enjoy a loud, clicky sound with tactile feedback, the Blue switch may be the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a deep, resonating sound with a medium-high level of tactility, the Shadow switch could be the perfect choice. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you are looking for.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are looking for a switch that offers a high level of tactility and produces deep, resonating thocks when typing, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a light bottom out force and a distinct clicking sound, the Outemu Blue switch would be a suitable option. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preference for tactility, sound, and typing feel. Consider what factors are most important to you when choosing between these two options.
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