Outemu Silent White vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent White and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Silent White, a linear switch, and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, a tactile switch, stand out as popular choices for enthusiasts. The Silent White switch is known for its lack of audible click or tactile bump, providing a smooth and silent typing experience. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offers a high level of tactility due to its unique two-staged spring design, resulting in satisfying feedback with each keystroke. While the Silent White switch is ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience, the Shadow switch is perfect for individuals who enjoy a more pronounced tactile sensation. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
PCB (5-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 White and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches, one key difference lies in their bottom housing materials. The Silent White features a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which, like its top housing counterpart, creates a sharper and crisper sound profile with its stiffer plastic composition. This distinction in bottom housing materials likely contributes to a noticeable variation in typing experience and sound feedback between the two switches.
On the other hand, both the Silent White and Shadow (Ink) switches share a polycarbonate top housing, offering a similar sound profile characterized by sharpness, higher pitch, and clarity. The utilization of polycarbonate in the top housing of these switches highlights the importance of this material in creating a resonant sound profile, especially when paired with RGB lighting due to its translucency. Despite potential differences in feel and sound between the two switches' bottom housing materials, their shared top housing material ensures a consistent auditory experience in terms of the key release sound and overall sound profile.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches such as the Silent White and Shadow (Ink) Double Spring plays a significant role in determining the sound and feel of typing. While the nylon bottom housing of the Silent White offers a deeper and fuller sound, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring contributes to a sharper and clearer sound. Conversely, the shared polycarbonate top housing of both switches provides a consistent, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile that resonates well, especially when paired with RGB lighting. Ultimately, the differences in housing materials between these switches result in unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
The Outemu Silent White linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch which has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Silent White at 60 grams and the Shadow at 63 grams. The difference in actuation force means that the Silent White may feel easier to type on, making it ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the heavier actuation force of the Shadow switch provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Outemu Silent White linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it a shorter option compared to the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The difference in travel distance between the two switches can affect the typing or gaming experience. For those who prefer a quicker response time and a shallower feel, the Silent White switch would be the better choice. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more deliberate and deeper keystroke may find the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 White 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 White switch is best known for its quiet operation, making it a popular choice for those who prefer a more discreet typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is described as producing a clacky and high-pitched sound when pressed. This means that if you enjoy a sharper and more noticeable noise when typing, the Shadow switch may be the preferred option for you. However, it is important to note that the overall sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Outemu Silent White does not have a specific tactile description mentioned in the provided information. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is known for its sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped tactile feedback. This means that when typing on the Shadow switch, you can expect a high level of tactility with a distinct and responsive bump that provides a lively and dynamic typing experience.
In conclusion, if you are looking for a quiet typing experience with minimal sound, the Outemu Silent White switch would be the recommended choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-high level of tactile feedback and enjoy a clacky and high-pitched sound while typing, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch would be the ideal option for you. Keep in mind that personal preference plays a significant role in selecting the right switch, so it is essential to try out different switches to determine which one suits your typing style and preferences best.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a silent typing experience with a medium bottom out force, the Outemu Silent White linear switch would be a good choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a higher level of tactility, deep thocks, and a medium bottom out force, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch would be more suitable for you. Consider the sound and feel descriptors provided for each switch to further inform your decision based on your preferences for typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so it's important to consider what factors are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch before making your selection.
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