Outemu Silent Green vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent 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 Silent Green and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offer two distinct typing experiences. The Silent Green is a linear switch known for its smooth keystrokes and quiet operation, making it ideal for those who prefer a more discreet typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility, perfect for individuals who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback while typing. If you are looking for a switch with a bouncy feel, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is a great choice. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
45g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
pom
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Silent Green and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top and bottom housings. The use of polycarbonate in housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer plastic composition. Aesthetically, polycarbonate is notably translucent and useful for switches intended for RGB lighting. Both switches exhibit similar acoustical properties and visual characteristics with the implementation of polycarbonate in their housing materials.
Despite both switches utilizing polycarbonate for their housing materials, the distinct differences can be seen in the bottom and top housings of each switch. The qualities brought by the housing material of the Outemu Silent Green and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring are divided between the top and bottom of the switch. When actuating the switch, the user will feel the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. This division of qualities offers a unique experience when using each switch, highlighting the importance of the housing material in determining sound and feel.
In summary, while the Outemu Silent Green and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches share the use of polycarbonate for their housing materials, the specific qualities of each switch are divided between the top and bottom housings. Both switches offer a sharp, higher-pitched sound profile with a crisp feel, thanks to polycarbonate's stiffness. The translucent nature of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting. Understanding the role of housing materials in switch design allows for a greater appreciation of the nuanced differences between switches, even when using similar materials.
Weight
In comparing the Outemu Silent Green linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, it is evident that the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The Silent Green has a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's 48 grams. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Silent Green requires 60 grams, which is heavier than the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's 55 grams. This suggests that the Silent Green may provide a slightly lighter typing experience when initially pressing the key, but a more substantial feel when fully depressing the key. Both switches fall within the medium range of actuation and bottom out forces, providing a balanced typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between a lighter or heavier switch will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and endurance during extended typing sessions or gaming marathons.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Silent Green linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on either of these switches, you will experience a consistent distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Despite their differences in sound and tactile feedback, their travel distance remains the same, allowing for a similar typing experience in terms of key travel. So, whether you prefer the linear feel of the Silent Green or the tactile feedback of the Shadow (Ink), you can expect comparable results in terms of travel distance when using either of these switches.
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 Silent 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 Silent Green linear switch is best known for its quiet and smooth operation, making it ideal for those seeking a silent typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is known for its deep and thocky sound profile, providing a satisfying auditory experience with every key press. It is important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other components of the keyboard setup such as the board and keycaps.
Moving on to feel, the Outemu Silent Green switch does not have any specific descriptors available. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is described as bouncy, offering a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation while typing. This results in a lively feel and provides users with a sense of rebound when pressing the keys, adding to the overall tactile experience.
In conclusion, the Outemu Silent Green and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Silent Green provides a quiet and smooth typing experience, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch offers a deep and thocky sound profile along with a bouncy tactile feel. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, with the Silent Green giving a quieter operation and the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offering a more tactile and bouncy feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Silent Green linear switch or the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for tactility and sound. If you prefer a linear switch with a medium bottom out force and a silent operation, the Silent Green may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a lower actuation force and a deep, thocky sound profile, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is a great option. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and how you prioritize tactility and sound in your mechanical keyboard experience.
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