Outemu Cream Pink vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cream Pink and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Cream Pink and the Aflion Shadow Ink Single Spring mechanical keyboard switches, one can see the distinct differences in their design and functionality. The cream pink is a linear switch known for its smooth keypress without any tactile feedback, making it ideal for fast typists and gamers who prefer a consistent feel across the board. On the other hand, the Shadow Ink Single Spring is a tactile switch that offers a medium level of tactility, providing a more pronounced bump when pressing down on the key. This makes it a great choice for those who enjoy a bit of feedback with their typing experience. The Cream Pink is categorized as linear, while 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
2.00 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
The main difference between the Outemu Cream Pink and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring lies in their housing materials. The Cream Pink features nylon top and bottom housings, which are known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to their softer nature. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Despite their differences, both materials excel in absorbing sound, with nylon creating a duller and rounder sound and polycarbonate producing a more clear and resonant sound.
In terms of aesthetics, the housing material plays a significant role in the overall appearance of the switch. The Cream Pink's nylon housing offers a classic and opaque look, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's polycarbonate housing provides a sleek and transparent design that enhances RGB lighting effects. The translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it a popular choice for switches where lighting customization is a priority, as it allows the light to shine through the housing for a vibrant and eye-catching display. In contrast, nylon's solid color may appeal to those looking for a more traditional and understated look.
Overall, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate housing ultimately comes down to personal preference and desired sound profile. While the Cream Pink and the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring may differ in their housing materials, both switches are designed to deliver a satisfying typing experience with distinct sound characteristics. Whether you prefer the deeper and fuller sound of nylon or the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate, both switches offer quality construction and performance that cater to different preferences and tastes in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, it is clear that the Cream Pink is the heavier of the two. The Cream Pink has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it a medium-light switch. The actuation force is the amount of force needed to trigger a keystroke, while bottom out force measures the force required to press the key all the way down. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, as it has lighter actuation and bottom out forces. Meanwhile, those seeking a more substantial typing experience may prefer the Cream Pink with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
The Outemu Cream Pink linear 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 comparing the two switches, it can be noted that they both provide a similar tactile experience despite their different switch types. Both switches offer a smooth actuation with a consistent travel distance, providing users with a reliable typing experience. As such, whether you choose the Cream Pink or the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, you can expect to achieve similar results in terms of key travel distance.
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 Pink 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 Cream Pink linear switch is known for its smooth and quiet operation, making it a great choice for those who prefer a more subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch provides a deep and thocky sound profile that adds a satisfying auditory element to your typing sessions. The sound produced by both switches can be further influenced by the type of keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Cream Pink switch is appreciated for its None, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch offers a bouncy tactile sensation. This means that users can expect a spring-like feedback that adds a lively and responsive feel to their keystrokes. The Cream Pink switch's specific feel is not explicitly detailed, but users can anticipate a smooth and consistent linear action.
In conclusion, the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches. The Cream Pink excels in providing a quiet and smooth typing experience, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offers a bouncy tactile feedback and a deep sound profile. Both switches have their unique characteristics that can enhance the overall typing experience for users, depending on their personal preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize sound, feel, or a combination of both in your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and are not looking for any specific unique features, the Outemu Cream Pink would be a solid choice. However, if you are in search of a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility, a lower actuation and bottom-out force, and enjoy a deep and thocky sound profile, then the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for linear versus tactile switches and the type of typing experience you are looking for. Happy typing!
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