Outemu Silent Grey vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Grey and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare and contrast are the Outemu Silent Grey, a tactile switch, and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, also a tactile switch. The Outemu Silent Grey switches offer a quiet typing experience with a pronounced bump and smooth keystrokes, making them ideal for those who prefer a satisfying yet silent typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches provide a medium-high level of tactility, thanks to their unique two-staged spring design, resulting in deep and resonating sound feedback while typing. Each switch has its own distinct characteristics - the Silent Grey for its quiet and tactile feedback and the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring for its medium-high level of tactility and deep sound feedback. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
1.60 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 dual-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Silent Grey and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice of material results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the inherent stiffness of polycarbonate. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches meant to be used with RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the keyboard.
However, where the Silent Grey features a nylon bottom housing, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring opts for a second polycarbonate housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the sharper sound of polycarbonate. The softer nature of nylon also allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound overall. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing in the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring maintains the clear and resonant sound profile associated with this material, creating a cohesive sound experience throughout the entire press of the key.
It is important to note that the qualities of the housing materials are split between the top and bottom in switches with different materials for each housing. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. In the case of the Silent Grey and the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in one switch versus dual polycarbonate housings showcases how different materials can affect the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, it's evident that the Silent Grey has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Shadow's 55 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Shadow requires slightly less pressure at 63 grams compared to the Silent Grey's 65 grams. Both switches provide a tactile typing experience, but the Silent Grey may feel lighter to the touch while the Shadow offers a slightly heavier typing feel. Ultimately, those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Silent Grey, while individuals who enjoy a bit more resistance might find the Shadow more to their liking. Either way, the actuation and bottom out forces of both switches fall within the medium range, providing a balance between comfort and tactile feedback for typists and gamers alike.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that pressing down on a key equipped with either switch will result in a similar feel and experience in terms of travel distance. The similarity in travel distance between the two switches ensures that users can expect consistent tactile feedback and keypress length regardless of which switch they choose to use.
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 Silent Grey 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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Silent Grey switch is known for its quiet and subtle typing experience, making it ideal for those who prefer a more discreet keyboard. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is described as clacky and high-pitched, producing a sharp and crisp sound with each keypress. This makes the Shadow switch a more audibly pronounced choice compared to the Silent Grey.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Outemu Silent Grey is known for its highly tactile experience with a pronounced bump and smooth keystroke. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offers a medium-high level of tactility with a sharp and crisp tactile bump prominent in each keystroke. Additionally, the Shadow switch provides a snappy and bouncy feel, giving a lively rebound sensation when typing.
Overall, while both switches offer tactile feedback, the Outemu Silent Grey provides a quieter typing experience with a smoother keystroke, whereas the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is more audibly pronounced with a sharp and clacky sound. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, you can choose between the quiet satisfaction of the Silent Grey or the resonating thocks and sharp tactility of the Shadow switch. Ultimately, both switches offer a satisfying tactile experience, and you can expect similar results in terms of tactile feedback despite their differences in sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, consider your preference for sound and feel. If you value a quieter typing experience with a smooth keystroke and pronounced bump, the Silent Grey would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-high level of tactility and enjoy the deep, resonating thocks while typing, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a quieter experience or a more tactile and clicky one. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing preferences for an optimal mechanical keyboard experience.
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