Outemu Milk Tea vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring

Overview

When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the distinct characteristics of different models, such as the Outemu Milk Tea and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring. While the Outemu Milk Tea does not have significant highlights noted, it offers a unique tactile experience that can be appealing for those who prefer a subtler touch under their fingers. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is celebrated for its pronounced tactility and the deep, resonating "thock" sound it produces, making it an excellent choice for users seeking both feedback and auditory satisfaction in their typing experience. The Shadow switch’s two-staged spring mechanism contributes to its medium-high tactility, offering an engaging, dynamic feel. Choosing between these two switches ultimately depends on personal preferences, such as the desire for tactile feedback versus sound profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Outemu Milk Tea Tactile

Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring Tactile

$3.10 per 10

$4.50

$3.57 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Milk Tea and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches, it becomes evident that the two use different types of materials for their upper and lower housings, which leads to distinct auditory and tactile characteristics. The Milk Tea features a Ly top housing made from a newer plastic that produces a bright sound signature characterized by resonant clacks. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for its sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. Both top housings contribute to an engaging auditory experience, but the Milk Tea's material tends to create a more resonant sound while the Shadow (Ink) housing brings a crisper tone, showcasing how different materials can lead to varied sound signatures even when operating on similar principles of resonance.

Delving into the bottom housings, the Outemu Milk Tea employs nylon, a classic choice that results in a deeper and fuller audio experience due to its softer plastic composition, which absorbs sound effectively. Meanwhile, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring opts for polycarbonate for its bottom housing as well, which aligns with its overall design ethos of delivering a sharper and clearer sound. The use of polycarbonate, especially in the lower housing, means that the Shadow (Ink) prioritizes a more crisp bottom-out sound compared to the Milk Tea. The softness of nylon in the Milk Tea, on the other hand, lends itself to a rounder, more muffled experience, setting the two switches apart despite their potential overlap in other auditory features.

Ultimately, the differentiation in housing materials for both the top and bottom parts of the switches provides a unique combination of sound profiles and tactile feedback. For those looking for a switch experience, the Milk Tea presents a vibrant and resonant typing experience, whereas the Shadow (Ink) would offer clarity and precision. While both sets of materials contribute differently to the overall sound and feel, users could achieve similar results in terms of sound layering if they were to use the same auditory principles; however, the direct impact of unique housing materials remains firmly ingrained in the individual characteristics of each switch.

Weight

In comparing the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Milk Tea switch requires a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer a softer touch, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, appealing to those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. Additionally, the Shadow switch features a bottom out force of 63 grams, quantifying the pressure felt when the key is pressed all the way down. Unfortunately, the bottom out force for the Milk Tea switch is unavailable, making it difficult to directly compare that aspect. Overall, the Outemu Milk Tea switch is the lighter option, while the Aflion Shadow switch provides a heavier and potentially more tactile experience for users who prefer it.

Travel distance

The travel distances of the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch are both 4 mm, indicating that they offer the same key press depth when actuated. This equivalent distance means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of how far down they need to press the keys to register a response. Consequently, whether one prefers the Milk Tea or the Shadow (Ink) switch, they will encounter a comparable feel during use, ensuring that neither switch is significantly shorter or longer in travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Outemu Milk Tea switch lacks a defining auditory characteristic, making it somewhat neutral in its acoustic profile. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch produces distinct clacky and high-pitched sounds, offering a bright and snappy auditory experience. The sharp, resonating thocks from the Shadow switches not only enhance typing feedback but can also create a more engaging environment, especially for those who appreciate clear auditory responses from their keyboard.

In terms of feel, again the Milk Tea switch doesn't provide standout qualities, leaving its tactile feedback unclear. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch impresses with an array of sensations. Its sharp tactile bump is prominent, giving a clear feedback during each keystroke. The switch is accented, meaning it offers a pleasing amount of tactility without being overwhelming, making it suitable for extended typing sessions. Furthermore, the responsive nature of the dual-staged spring contributes to a bouncy feel, enhancing the overall typing experience with lively rebounds and a distinct two-stage sensation that makes every press engaging.

In conclusion, the Outemu Milk Tea switch presents a blank slate in both sound and tactile feedback, which may appeal to those favoring a minimalist experience. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch stands out for its vibrant sound profile and rich tactile feedback, making it a strong contender for anyone seeking an exciting typing experience. If one prefers a more engaging auditory and tactile experience, the Aflion Shadow switch would be a superior choice, while the Milk Tea may suit those seeking simplicity.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a switch that's more balanced and slightly less intense, you might gravitate towards the Outemu Milk Tea, particularly if you enjoy a quieter typing experience, as it's designed for those who favor gentler feedback without overwhelming tactility. However, if you're looking for a more pronounced and engaging typing experience, especially one that features deep thocks and a medium-high level of tactility, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is your go-to choice. Its sharp feedback and snappy response make it perfect for typists who appreciate a lively and energetic feel with each keystroke. Additionally, if sound appeals to you, the clacky and high-pitched tones of the Shadow switches deliver crisp auditory feedback, while the Milk Tea might offer a subtler profile in this regard. Ultimately, your choice should align with whether you prioritize tactile feedback intensity and sound or a more subdued, easy-going typing sensation.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Milk Tea Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring Tactile

$4.50

$3.57 per 10

Learn more