Outemu Purple vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Outemu Purple and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Purple and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring mechanical keyboard switches, it is clear that they both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The purple switch is known for its smooth keypress, while the shadow (ink) double spring switch stands out for its medium-high level of tactility and deep, resonating thocks during typing. The purple switch falls under the tactile category, whereas the shadow switch is categorized as clacky, high-pitched, sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped. If you are looking for a switch with a unique feature like a smooth keypress, the purple switch may be the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a distinctive feel and sound like the shadow switch, it could be the better choice for you. 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
50g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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 Purple and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housings. This means that they both produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it a popular choice for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. However, where they differ is in their bottom housings. The Purple features a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softness and sound-absorbing properties. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which offers a similar clear and resonant sound profile to its top housing.
The use of different materials in the top and bottom housings of switches can impact the overall sound and feel of typing on a keyboard. With the Purple's nylon bottom housing, users can expect a deeper and fuller sound when pressing down on the keys, as nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's polycarbonate bottom housing will contribute to a sharper and crisper sound profile, aligning with the qualities of its polycarbonate top housing. This split in housing materials allows for a more nuanced typing experience, with different aspects of the switch's sound profile influenced by the top and bottom housing materials.
Overall, both the Outemu Purple and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials. While they both utilize polycarbonate in their top housings for a clear and resonant sound, the contrast in their bottom housings provides users with different typing experiences. Whether you prefer the deeper sound profile of the Purple's nylon bottom housing or the sharper sound of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's polycarbonate bottom housing, these switches showcase the importance of housing materials in determining the overall sound and feel of mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Purple tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, the Purple has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Shadow's 55 grams, making the Purple slightly easier to trigger keystrokes with. However, the bottom out force of the Shadow is 63 grams, which is heavier compared to the Purple's unknown bottom out force. This means that the Shadow provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Both switches offer tactile feedback, but the Shadow may be more suitable for those who prefer a heavier typing experience, while the Purple would be ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force levels.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Purple tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. Consequently, the travel distance of both switches is equal, resulting in similar typing experiences when using keyboards equipped with either switch. Even though the specific design and mechanisms of the switches may differ, users can expect consistent results in terms of key travel with both the Outemu Purple and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switches.
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 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 Purple tactile switch is known for being relatively quiet, with no specific descriptors provided. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch is described as clacky and high-pitched, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This difference in sound profiles means that the Purple switches may be more suitable for those who prefer a quieter typing experience, while the Shadow switches are better suited for those who enjoy a more crisp and bright sound when typing.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Purple switch does not have specific descriptors provided. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is described as sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped. This indicates that these switches offer a high level of tactility with a prominent tactile bump that can be felt distinctly with each keypress. The presence of longer or dual-staged springs in the Shadow switches also provides a more responsive and lively typing experience compared to the Purple switches.
Overall, the Outemu Purple tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Purple switches provide a quieter typing experience with no specific tactile descriptors, while the Shadow switches offer a more distinct and tactile typing experience with a crisp and snappy sound. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, you can choose between the two switches to achieve your desired typing experience. If these qualities are not important to you, both switches may still provide a similar level of satisfaction in terms of performance and durability.
Conclusion
In summary, you should choose the Outemu Purple tactile switch if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and are looking for a switch that is best known for tactility. On the other hand, if you are seeking a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility and enjoy a deep, resonating typing experience with a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, then the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is the perfect choice for you. Ultimately, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel when deciding between these two switches to ensure a satisfying typing experience tailored to your preferences.
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