Outemu Red vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the Outemu Red 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 Red linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch offer unique qualities for different user preferences. The Outemu Red switch is best known for its smooth linear action, making it an ideal choice for fast typists and gamers who prefer a consistent keystroke without any tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch stands out for its medium level of tactility, providing a satisfying bump when pressed while still maintaining a relatively light actuation and bottom-out force. This makes it a great option for those seeking a tactile typing experience with a deep and thocky sound profile. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different users' preferences; 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
46g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.10 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Red and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. This makes them both suitable choices for users looking for a clear and resonant sound experience, particularly if they plan to utilize RGB lighting. However, the Red switch also includes a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Shadow's polycarbonate bottom housing, which elicits a sharper and crisper sound. The difference in bottom housing material could affect the overall typing experience, with the Red offering a softer and more absorbent typing feel compared to the Shadow's more rigid feel.
Despite both switches featuring a polycarbonate top housing, the use of different bottom housing materials results in distinct sound and typing experiences. The nylon bottom housing of the Outemu Red provides a more rounded sound profile, while the Shadow's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper and clearer sound. This variation highlights how different housing materials can impact the overall sound and feel of a switch, with the bottom housing playing a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound upon key release. Therefore, users may prefer one switch over the other based on their preference for a deeper or crisper typing experience.
Overall, the Outemu Red and Aflion Shadow switches showcase how housing materials can influence the sound and feel of mechanical keyboard switches. While both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and crisp sound profile, the choice of bottom housing material sets them apart. The nylon bottom housing of the Red offers a deeper and fuller sound, while the Shadow's polycarbonate bottom housing provides a sharper and more resonant sound. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference for typing feel and sound profile, with the Red offering a softer typing experience and the Shadow providing a more rigid and precise feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Red linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, it is evident that the Red switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 46 grams compared to the Shadow switch's 48 grams. However, the Red switch has a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams, while the Shadow switch has a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams. Both switches fall within the medium range, but the Red switch leans towards the heavier side while the Shadow switch is on the lighter end. This means that the Red switch may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel, while the Shadow switch may be more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the two switches to achieve the desired typing feel.
Travel distance
The Outemu Red linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch both 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 distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent travel distance, allowing for a smooth and uniform typing experience. Whether you choose the Outemu Red or the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, you can expect similar results in terms of 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 Red 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, both the Outemu Red and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches offer unique characteristics. While the Red switch is known for a standard sound profile that is commonly associated with linear switches, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch has a deep and "thocky" sound profile that is distinct and can add to the overall typing experience.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Outemu Red switch is known for its smooth linear action without any tactile bump or audible feedback. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch provides a bouncy and tactile sensation, creating a more engaging typing experience with a noticeable level of tactility.
Considering the available information, if you prefer a quiet and smooth typing experience without tactile feedback, the Outemu Red switch may be a suitable choice for you. However, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility and a deep sound profile, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch would be a great option. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Red linear switch or the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, you should opt for the Outemu Red if you prefer a linear switch with a medium bottom out force. On the other hand, if you are seeking a tactile switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a bouncy feel, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring would be the better choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to your personal typing preferences and whether you prefer linear or tactile feedback.
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