Outemu Brown vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the Outemu Brown and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Brown and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring mechanical keyboard switches, both fall under the tactile switch category. The Outemu Brown switch is best known for its versatility, making it a popular choice for those looking for a tactile typing experience without an overwhelming level of feedback. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is preferred for its medium level of tactility, providing a satisfying typing experience with a lower actuation and bottom-out force. Additionally, the Aflion switch offers a deep and thocky sound profile, adding to the overall typing experience. While both switches offer tactile feedback, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch stands out for its bouncy 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
53g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
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 housing materials of the Outemu Brown and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches share similarities in their polycarbonate top housings. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches intended for RGB lighting. However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Brown features a nylon material while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring uses polycarbonate.
The nylon bottom housing of the Outemu Brown provides a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switches. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's polycarbonate bottom housing shares the same material as its top housing, offering a sharper and crisper sound profile that complements the characteristics of its top housing. This contrast in bottom housing materials showcases how different materials can impact the overall sound and feel of a switch.
In terms of functionality, the top and bottom housings of a switch play crucial roles in determining the sound profile and typing experience. The split in housing materials between the top and bottom of the switch means that each material brings its own unique qualities to different aspects of typing. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Understanding the properties of each housing material is essential in creating switches with desired sound profiles and tactile feedback.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Brown tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, we find that the Brown has a slightly heavier actuation force of 53 grams compared to the Shadow's 48 grams. On the other hand, the bottom out force of the Brown at 65 grams is heavier than the Shadow's 55 grams. This means that the Brown switch provides a more substantial typing experience with a higher actuation force and bottom out force, making it ideal for those who prefer a stronger push feel. In contrast, the Shadow switch offers a lighter typing experience with lower actuation and bottom out forces, making it more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons. The weight of the switch plays a crucial role in determining the typing experience, with lighter switches being preferable for extended use and heavier switches providing a more satisfying typing feedback.
Travel distance
The Outemu Brown tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This means that both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of travel distance. Overall, the travel distance of both switches is the same, offering consistency in this particular feature.
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 Brown 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 Brown switch is known for being relatively quiet compared to other mechanical switches, making it a good choice for those who prefer a more subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is loved for its deep and thocky sound profile, providing a more satisfying auditory feedback while typing. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Brown switch is typically described as having a smooth and consistent tactile bump, providing a reliable feedback when typing. While the specific feel of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is described as bouncy, offering a spring-like and elastic feedback sensation that gives the keys a lively feel with rebound when pressed. This unique feel can contribute to a more dynamic typing experience for individuals looking for a switch with a medium level of tactility.
In conclusion, if you are looking for a quieter typing experience with a smooth and consistent tactile feedback, the Outemu Brown switch may be the better choice for you. However, if you prefer a more satisfying auditory feedback with a bouncy and lively feel while typing, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, both switches offer their own unique qualities, and it is essential to consider your personal preferences and typing style when choosing between the two.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility and a lower actuation and bottom-out force, we highly recommend the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch. These switches provide a very approachable tactility and feature a deep and thocky sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Outemu Brown tactile switch might be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your preference for tactility and force required for typing. Consider trying out both switches to see which one feels more comfortable for your typing style.
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