Outemu Green vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the Outemu 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 Green and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offer distinct typing experiences. The Outemu Green switch is a clicky switch, known for its audible feedback and tactile bump. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility, providing a softer typing feel compared to the Green switch. If you prefer a satisfying click with each keystroke, the Outemu Green is a great choice. However, if you are in search of a smoother typing experience with a deep sound profile, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single 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
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
Standard
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Green and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches, it is evident that both utilize polycarbonate in their top housing. This means that both switches will produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when pressed, as polycarbonate is known for being a relatively stiffer plastic that enhances sound clarity. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through, making these switches a visually appealing choice for those who prioritize aesthetics in their keyboard setup.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The Green switch uses a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch has a polycarbonate bottom housing, which complements the characteristics of the top housing by enhancing the overall sound clarity and resonance of the switch.
In terms of feel and sound distribution, the qualities of the bottom housing material will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. Conversely, the top housing material will influence the sound produced when releasing a key. Despite the differences in their bottom housing materials, both the Outemu Green and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches offer a unique typing experience that combines the sharpness of polycarbonate with either the depth of nylon or the enhanced clarity of additional polycarbonate.
Weight
The Outemu 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 for those who prefer a firmer push feel. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch offers a lighter actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons. The difference in weight between the two switches allows for users to choose based on their preference for a lighter or heavier key feel. If both switches were to have the same actuation and bottom out forces, users would experience similar results in terms of typing comfort and efficiency. Ultimately, the decision between the Outemu Green and Aflion Shadow (Ink) switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Green clicky switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch are equal, both measuring at 4mm. This means that when pressing down on a key using either switch, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. In this aspect, the two switches provide a similar typing experience with no noticeable difference in travel distance. This makes them both suitable options for users who prefer a consistent feel when typing.
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 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 Green clicky switch is known for its loud and satisfying click with each keystroke, providing a tactile auditory experience that many enthusiasts enjoy. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is praised for its deep and thocky sound profile, offering a quieter yet still noticeable typing experience. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that can enhance the overall typing experience, but the choice between them ultimately depends on personal preference and the environment in which they will be used.
Moving on to feel, the Outemu Green switch offers a tactile and clicky typing experience, with each keypress providing a noticeable bump and audible click. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch provides a bouncy sensation with a medium level of tactility, offering a more subtle tactile feedback compared to the Outemu Green switch. The bouncy feel of the Aflion switch can be appealing to those who prefer a softer and more muted typing experience.
In conclusion, the Outemu Green clicky switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch offer distinct sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Outemu Green switch provides a loud and tactile typing experience with a pronounced click, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch offers a quieter and bouncy typing feel with a medium level of tactility. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Outemu Green clicky switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, you should choose the Outemu Green if you prefer a heavy bottom out force and a clicky switch. On the other hand, opt for the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility. The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring also offers a deep and thocky sound profile, making it a great choice for those seeking a tactile switch with a unique feel. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preference for weight, sound, and tactile feedback.
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