Outemu Cream Blue vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cream Blue and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Cream Blue and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offer unique features to cater to different preferences. The Cream Blue is a clicky switch known for its distinct audible feedback, making it ideal for those who enjoy a tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is a tactile switch that provides a medium level of tactility, perfect for users seeking a responsive yet quieter typing experience. While the Cream Blue is categorized as a clicky switch, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring falls under the 'Bouncy' category. 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
65g
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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Cream Blue and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, it is evident that both switches use different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Cream Blue features a nylon top and bottom housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring utilizes a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, producing a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that is clear and resonant. The use of polycarbonate in the Shadow (Ink) switch allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switch.
When it comes to typing experience, the choice of housing material can significantly impact the sound and feel of a switch. The Cream Blue's nylon housing offers a softer and more rounded sound upon bottoming out a key, providing a cushioned typing experience. On the other hand, the polycarbonate housing of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring delivers a crisper and more defined sound when pressing down on a key, resulting in a more tactile typing experience. The difference in housing materials demonstrates how the composition of a switch can influence the overall typing feel and sound profile.
While the housing materials of the Cream Blue and Shadow (Ink) switches differ in terms of nylon and polycarbonate, both materials play a crucial role in shaping the typing experience. The distinctions between the softer, sound-absorbing nylon and the stiffer, clear polycarbonate are reflected in the switches' respective sound profiles and tactile responses. Ultimately, the choice between these two housing materials will depend on personal preference for either a deeper, fuller sound (Cream Blue) or a sharper, crisper sound (Shadow (Ink) Single Spring) during typing sessions.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, there are notable differences. The Cream Blue has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Shadow's 48 grams, making it slightly heavier. However, the Cream Blue also has a higher bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Shadow only requires 55 grams to bottom out. This means that the Cream Blue switch offers a more substantial typing experience with a firmer push feel, while the Shadow switch provides a lighter touch for longer typing sessions. Both switches offer unique benefits depending on personal preference, with the Cream Blue being heavier and the Shadow being lighter. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on whether one prefers a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will get a similar feel and result in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent travel distance, providing users with a familiar typing experience across different keyboards. Despite any differences in their actuation force or sound profile, the travel distance remains constant between the Cream Blue and Shadow (Ink) Single Spring 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 Cream 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 Cream Blue switch is known for its loud and satisfying clicky sound, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is praised for its deep and thocky sound profile, which adds a sense of richness to the typing experience. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that can enhance the overall typing experience, but the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference and the sound profile you prefer.
Moving on to feel, the Cream Blue switch doesn't have a specific feel associated with it, but clicky switches are generally known for their tactile feedback and audible clicks. The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch, on the other hand, is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation when typing. This bouncy feel can add a sense of liveliness and rebound to each keystroke, creating a tactile typing experience that's enjoyable for many.
In conclusion, both the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. The Cream Blue switch is praised for its loud clicky sound, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch offers a bouncy and tactile typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on whether you prioritize sound, feel, or a combination of both in your typing experience. Whichever switch you choose, rest assured that you'll get a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience with either option.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, you should choose the Cream Blue if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a clicky typing experience. On the other hand, opt for the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and desire a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility. The Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offers a bouncy feel and a deep, thocky sound profile, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a lively typing experience with a satisfying tactile feedback. Ultimately, your choice should be based on your preference for bottom out force, typing feel, and sound profile when selecting between these two mechanical keyboard switches.
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