Outemu Crystal Brown vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal Brown and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Crystal Brown and the Aflion Shadow Double Spring mechanical keyboard switches, we find that both switches offer a tactile typing experience. The Crystal Brown switch is known for its smooth tactility, while the Shadow Double Spring switch provides a medium-high level of tactility due to its unique two-staged spring design. The Crystal Brown switch is categorized as linear, whereas the Shadow switch is categorized as clacky, high-pitched, sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped. If you are looking for a switch with a more distinct tactile feedback and a satisfying thock sound while typing, the Aflion Shadow Double Spring switch may be the better choice. 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
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
63g
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
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Crystal Brown and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches, we can see that they both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound, making it a preferred choice for switches intended for RGB lighting due to its translucency. Despite both switches using the same material for the top housing, the unique design and construction of each switch may still lead to subtle differences in sound and feel.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Crystal Brown features a nylon material while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring uses a polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than polycarbonate. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper and crisper sound produced by the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch. The choice of bottom housing material can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of a switch, which may appeal to different preferences for typing experience.
Overall, while both switches share the use of polycarbonate for the top housing, the difference in bottom housing material between the Outemu Crystal Brown and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches leads to distinct sound profiles and typing experiences. The split qualities of the bottom and top housing materials in these switches result in a unique balance of impact on the bottom-out sound and feel versus the sound when releasing a key. Depending on personal preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetics, users may find one switch more appealing over the other based on the housing materials employed in their construction.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, it is evident that the Crystal Brown is lighter in both regards. The Crystal Brown has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams. These differences indicate that the Crystal Brown provides a lighter typing experience compared to the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring. Both switches offer a tactile feel, but the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring may appeal more to users who prefer a slightly heavier touch for a more robust typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom when pressed. This means that users can expect similar feedback and typing experience from both switches in terms of travel distance.Overall, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience with a short travel distance.
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 Crystal 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 Crystal Brown switch is commonly known for its quiet operation, providing a subtle and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is characterized by a clacky and high-pitched sound profile. This results in a more sharp and crisp sound when typing, creating a distinct auditory feedback that some users may prefer for its tactile response. It is important to note that the overall sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Crystal Brown switch lacks a specific descriptor for its tactile feedback. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is known for its sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped tactile characteristics. This means that users can expect a strong and crisp tactile bump with each keypress, providing a responsive and lively typing experience. The switch offers a medium-high level of tactility without being overwhelming, striking a balance between feedback intensity and smooth operation for those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile response.
Overall, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch with a quieter operation and a smoother typing feel, the Outemu Crystal Brown switch may be the preferred choice. However, if you desire a switch that delivers a more audible and tactile typing experience with a variety of tactile characteristics, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch would be a great option. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel, as both can provide a satisfying typing experience with their unique qualities.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a switch with a lighter bottom out force and a more subtle tactile feedback, the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch would be a good choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a slightly higher bottom out force and a more pronounced tactile bump, along with a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, then the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch would be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preference for key feel, sound, and typing experience. Consider these factors carefully before making your final choice.
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