Outemu Blue vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the Outemu Blue and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, there are several factors to consider. The Outemu Blue is best known for its audible click sound and tactile feedback, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offers a medium level of tactility with a lower actuation and bottom-out force, providing a more approachable typing experience. If you prefer a bouncy feel and a deep, thocky sound profile, the Aflion Shadow switch may be the better option for you. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Outemu Blue and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, leading to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed to utilize RGB lighting. However, the Blue switch also includes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Shadow's polycarbonate bottom housing, which absorbs less sound and creates a duller and rounder sound.
In terms of acoustics, the material composition of the top and bottom housing in a switch can impact the overall sound and feel when typing. The Blue switch's combination of a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing divides the qualities of each material between the top and bottom of the switch. Pressing down on the switch will emphasize the qualities of the nylon bottom housing, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. In contrast, the Shadow switch's consistent use of polycarbonate throughout the housing results in a more uniform sound profile with a sharper and crisper tone.
Ultimately, both the Outemu Blue and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials. While the Blue switch provides a combination of the sharper, resonant sound of polycarbonate in the top housing and the deeper, fuller sound of nylon in the bottom housing, the Shadow switch maintains a consistent sound profile with its polycarbonate housing throughout. Users looking for a more varied sound experience may prefer the Blue switch, while those seeking a more uniform sound may opt for the Shadow switch. Regardless of the choice, both switches showcase the impact that housing materials can have on the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, it is evident that the Blue requires a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Shadow's 48 grams. However, the Shadow has a heavier bottom out force of 55 grams, while the Blue's bottom out force is unknown. In terms of weight, some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Shadow for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may appreciate the heavier bottom out force of the Blue for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer unique benefits, but those looking for a lighter touch may lean towards the Shadow, while those seeking a bit more resistance may prefer the Blue. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of key travel. In terms of travel distance, neither switch is shorter or longer than the other, as they both offer the same typing experience in this aspect. Both switches are designed to provide tactile feedback at the same keypress depth, ensuring that users will get similar results when typing on keyboards equipped with either switch.
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 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 best known for its loud and satisfying click with each key press, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts who enjoy the audible feedback. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is known for its deep and thocky sound profile, providing a different auditory experience that is more subtle compared to the clickiness of the Blue switch.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Blue switch is known for its tactile bump and audible click, giving users a tactile and clicky sensation with each key press. In comparison, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation that gives users rebound when keys are pressed, offering a different typing experience from the more traditional tactile click of the Blue switch.
Overall, the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Blue switch provides a loud and tactile experience with each key press, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch offers a deeper sound profile and a bouncy feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, and choosing between them would depend on the individual's typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, consider your preference for tactility and sound profile. If you enjoy a clicky switch with no bottom out force and a distinct sound, the Outemu Blue may be the right choice for you. However, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a deep, thocky sound profile, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is highly recommended. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you are looking for. Choose the switch that best suits your typing style and preferences.
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