Outemu Dustproof Blue vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu dustproof blue and the Aflion shadow ink double spring are two options that stand out. The dustproof blue is a clicky switch best known for its reliable performance. On the other hand, the shadow ink double spring is a tactile switch that offers a medium-high level of tactility, along with deep, resonating thocks when typing. While the dustproof blue is categorized as a clicky switch, the shadow ink double spring falls under categories like clacky, high-pitched, sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that may appeal to different preferences. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
63g
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 dual-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, we can see that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This means that they will both have a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of this material. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. This similarity in top housing material means that users can expect a consistent sound and feel when typing on either switch.
However, where they differ is in the bottom housing material. The Dustproof Blue features a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which will contribute to a clearer and more resonant sound profile. The absorption of sound in nylon creates a duller and rounder sound, whereas the stiffness of polycarbonate gives a more defined and sharp sound. This difference in bottom housing material will impact the overall typing experience and sound of each switch.
Overall, the choice between the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring will come down to personal preference in sound and feel. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a consistent high-pitched sound, the differences in their bottom housing materials will offer distinct typing experiences. Whether you prefer a deeper and fuller sound with the Dustproof Blue's nylon bottom housing or a clearer and more resonant sound with the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's polycarbonate bottom housing, both switches offer unique qualities to enhance your typing experience.
Weight
The Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch both have actuation forces in the medium range, with the Dustproof Blue being lighter at 50 grams compared to the Shadow's 55 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Dustproof Blue is heavier at 65 grams compared to the Shadow's 63 grams. This means that the Dustproof Blue offers a lighter initial push for typing, but ultimately requires more force to fully press the key, providing a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Shadow has a slightly heavier initial push but requires less force to bottom out. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch are both 4 mm, which means they both offer a similar experience in terms of key press feel. The similarity in travel distance ensures that users will get consistent feedback and actuation from both switches. Despite having the same travel distance, the Dustproof Blue clicky switch might feel slightly shorter due to its tactile bump and clicky sound, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch might feel slightly longer due to the extra force required for actuation from the double spring design. Overall, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience with their respective travel distances.
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 Dustproof 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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch is known for its quiet and smooth operation, lacking any specific sound characteristics that stand out. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is described as producing a clacky and high-pitched sound when pressed. This results in a sharp and crisp sound profile that is bright and percussive. Depending on personal preference, the choice between the two switches will come down to whether a quieter operation or a more audibly distinct typing experience is desired.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch does not have any specific tactile characteristics that are widely recognized. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is known for its sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped tactile feedback. With a medium-high level of tactility and a two-staged spring design, the Shadow switch provides a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be distinctly felt with each keypress. The keys have a lively feel with a rebound effect, making typing on the Shadow switches a more engaging and tactile experience compared to the Dustproof Blue.
In conclusion, the Outemu Dustproof Blue and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches offer distinct sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences. While the Dustproof Blue provides a quiet and smooth typing experience without any standout features in sound or feel, the Shadow switches offer a more audibly distinct and tactile typing experience with a variety of tactile descriptors. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether the user prioritizes a quiet operation or a more tactile and engaging typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, consider the following guidelines: opt for the Dustproof Blue if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and are looking for a clicky switch without a specific standout feature. On the other hand, choose the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring if you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force and are seeking a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility, characterized by deep thocks and a two-staged spring design. Additionally, if you enjoy a clacky and high-pitched sound profile along with sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, or stepped tactile feedback, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal typing preferences and desired keyboard experience.
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