Outemu Dustproof Green vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Green and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Dustproof Green, a clicky switch, and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, a tactile switch. The Dustproof Green is best known for its clicky feel, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is favored for its medium-high level of tactility and deep, resonating thocks when typing. The Dustproof Green switch falls into the category of clicky switches, while the Shadow switch is classified as clacky, high-pitched, sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped. Each switch offers unique advantages based on personal preference and typing style. 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
65g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
Comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Green and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, both switches use polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to polycarbonate's stiffer nature. Additionally, its translucency makes it ideal for switches designed to showcase RGB lighting. However, while they both share the same top housing material, the Dustproof Green's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to nylon's softer composition that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring utilizes polycarbonate for its bottom housing, maintaining a clear and resonant sound profile throughout the switch.
The differences in housing materials between the Dustproof Green and the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring result in distinct tactile and auditory experiences for users. When typing on the Dustproof Green, the effect of its nylon bottom housing is felt in the deeper and rounder sound produced upon bottoming out a key. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to the switch's overall sharper and crisper sound profile. On the other hand, the top housing material in both switches impacts the sound when a key is released, enhancing the overall typing experience with its clear and resonant tone.
While the Outemu Dustproof Green and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring utilize differing materials for their top and bottom housings, they both aim to enhance the user experience through the unique properties of polycarbonate and nylon. The split characteristics of each housing material create a harmonious blend of sharp and deep sound profiles, catering to different preferences in typing sound and feel. Both switches demonstrate the importance of housing materials in determining the overall sound and feel of mechanical keyboards, providing users with a diverse range of options to customize their typing experience.
Weight
The Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch has a heavier actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch is lighter, with an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams. The lighter actuation force of the Shadow (Ink) switch allows for longer typing periods and is more suited for extended use, such as in an office setting or during long gaming sessions. In contrast, the Dustproof Green switch is better for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Both switches offer unique experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Travel distance
The travel distance of both the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch is 4mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. In terms of travel distance, both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of keypress depth. Therefore, users can expect consistent results in terms of travel distance when using either switch.
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 Green 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 Dustproof Green clicky switch doesn't have any specific descriptions available. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch is noted for producing a clacky and high-pitched sound. The sharp and snappy sound of the Shadow switch adds a crisp and bright quality to typing, which some users may find more pleasing than a richer, bassier sound. However, it's important to remember that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors like the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the information provided does not specify any particular characteristics of the Outemu Dustproof Green switch. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch is described as sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped. This means that the Shadow switch offers a high level of feedback intensity with a distinct tactile bump, providing a medium level of tactility that is neither too subtle nor too overwhelming. The inclusion of longer, dual-staged springs in the Shadow switch enhances responsiveness and offers a lively typing experience with a rebound sensation.
Overall, while the specific qualities of the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch may not be as detailed as those of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, it can be inferred that the Dustproof Green may offer a different sound and feel experience. For users seeking a switch with a sharp, clacky sound and a medium-high level of tactility, the Shadow switch would be a great choice. On the other hand, if the Dustproof Green switch aligns more with your preferences, you can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel to those described for the Shadow switch. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the kind of typing experience you are seeking.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, your decision should ultimately be based on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a heavy bottom out force and a clicky sound without any specific tactile feedback, the Dustproof Green may be the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force with a tactile feedback that is sharp, accented, and snappy, then the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch would be a better choice. Consider your desired sound profile and typing experience when making your decision between these two switches.
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