Outemu Dustproof Green vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Green 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 Dustproof Green and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offer different experiences for users. The Dustproof Green is a clicky switch, known for its distinctive sound when typing. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility, providing a softer typing experience. While the Dustproof Green offers a satisfying click with each keystroke, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring gives a bouncy feeling when typing. If you value a audible feedback while typing, the Dustproof Green may be the switch for you. Alternatively, if you prefer a softer tactile response and a deeper sound profile, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring could 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
65g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Outemu Dustproof Green and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring utilize polycarbonate in their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's relatively stiff nature, which enhances clarity and resonance in sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this top housing material, they differ in their bottom housing.
The Dustproof Green features a nylon bottom housing, which is known for providing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is characterized by its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring opts for a polycarbonate bottom housing to maintain a consistent sharp, higher-pitched sound profile throughout the switch's operation. This difference in bottom housing material will impact the overall sound and feel of the switches when pressed.
In terms of functionality, the qualities of the housing materials in each switch are split between the top and bottom housings. The bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Despite their differences in housing materials, both the Dustproof Green and Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch is noticeably heavier compared to the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch. The Dustproof Green requires an actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is lighter, with an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it a more suitable option for users who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time. Both switches offer a satisfying tactile feedback, but the difference in weight allows users to choose based on their personal preference for typing comfort. The actuation and bottom out force differences between the two switches will result in distinct typing experiences, with the Dustproof Green offering a heavier feel and the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring providing a lighter touch.
Travel distance
The Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience a similar amount of travel from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a satisfying tactile feedback and are ideal for typing enthusiasts who enjoy a clicky or tactile experience. Overall, the travel distance of the Dustproof Green and Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches ensures a consistent typing experience for those who prefer a moderate 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 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 Dustproof Green switch is known for its clicky sound, providing a satisfying audible feedback with each key press. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is praised for its deep and thocky sound profile, offering a quieter typing experience compared to the Dustproof Green switch. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard construction and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Dustproof Green switch is recognized for its tactile feedback and clicky actuation, giving users a tactile bump when the key is pressed. The Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch, on the other hand, is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like sensation with a lively and elastic feedback when typing. This makes the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch suitable for users who prefer a softer and more cushioned typing experience.
In conclusion, the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a clicky switch with an audible feedback, the Dustproof Green switch is a solid choice. On the other hand, if you seek a tactile switch with a softer and bouncier feel, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch would be more suitable. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them ultimately depends on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you desire.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, consider the force required for typing. If you prefer a heavier bottom out force at 80 grams, the Dustproof Green may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force at 55 grams with a medium level of tactility, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is a great option. Additionally, if you enjoy a bouncy feel and a deep sound profile, the Shadow switch may be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing experience and sound profile.
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