Outemu Dustproof Purple vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offer unique typing experiences. The Dustproof Purple is a clicky switch with a satisfying click sound upon actuation. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is a tactile switch known for its medium-high level of tactility and deep, resonating sound when typing. While the Dustproof Purple is categorized as a clicky switch, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is classified as a tactile switch. If you enjoy a clicky typing experience, the Dustproof Purple may be the right choice for you. However, if you prefer a tactile feel with deep thocks, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring might be more suitable. 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
55g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches, it is clear that they both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. This results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to polycarbonate's stiffness. Both switches are also ideal for RGB lighting setups due to the translucency of polycarbonate. However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Dustproof Purple uses nylon, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound overall.
The difference in bottom housing material between the two switches impacts the overall sound and feel of typing on them. Pressing down on the Dustproof Purple will result in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the nylon bottom housing, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's sharper and crisper sound profile is influenced by its polycarbonate bottom housing. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. This split in housing materials allows for a unique typing experience with distinct characteristics for each switch.
In terms of aesthetics, both switches offer a clear housing design thanks to the use of polycarbonate. This not only allows for RGB lighting to shine through effectively but also gives a modern and sleek look to the switches. The translucency of polycarbonate in the top housing enhances the visual appeal of the switches, making them attractive options for those looking to customize their mechanical keyboards with vibrant lighting effects. Overall, while the Dustproof Purple and Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches share similarities in their top housing material, it is the difference in bottom housing that sets them apart in terms of sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, it is evident that both have the same actuation force of 55 grams. However, the Dustproof Purple has a slightly higher bottom out force of 65 grams compared to the Shadow Double Spring's 63 grams. This means that the Dustproof Purple requires a slightly heavier force to fully press the key. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Shadow Double Spring may be the better option due to its lower bottom out force. However, for individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel, the Dustproof Purple would be the preferred choice. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the travel distance between the two switches, it can be seen that both offer the same tactile feedback and bottom out at the same distance. This means that regardless of which switch is chosen, the user will experience a consistent typing experience in terms of key travel. In terms of overall typing feel, both switches offer a similar level of key travel, ensuring that users will get similar results whether they choose the Dustproof Purple or the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring.
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 Purple 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 Purple switch is known for its quiet operation without any specific sound characteristics standing out. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is described as producing a clacky and high-pitched sound when pressed, giving a crisp, bright, and percussive typing experience. The sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Dustproof Purple switch does not have any specific tactile feedback or feel associated with it. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is known for its sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped tactile feel. The two-staged spring in the Shadow switch provides a distinct, strong tactile bump with each keypress, giving a medium-high level of tactility that is lively and responsive.
Overall, if you prefer a quiet switch with no specific sound characteristics and a more neutral feel, the Outemu Dustproof Purple switch would be a good choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a clacky, high-pitched sound and a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility and a lively, sharp feel, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch would be the better option. Keep in mind that personal preferences play a significant role in choosing the right switch for you, so it's essential to try out both switches if possible to see which one suits your typing style the best.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, consider the following factors. If you prioritize a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams and are looking for a clicky switch without a specific standout feature, the Dustproof Purple may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force of 63 grams and desire a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility, along with deep, resonating thocks while typing, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring would be the optimal selection. Additionally, if you enjoy a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, as well as a sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped tactile feel, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch would suit your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the specific characteristics you value in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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