Outemu Silent Yellow vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Yellow and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, there are key differences to consider. The Silent Yellow is known for its smooth and silent keystrokes, making it an ideal option for those in need of a quiet typing experience. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offers a tactile feedback with a medium-high level of tactility, perfect for those who enjoy a more pronounced feel while typing. Furthermore, the Shadow switch provides deep, resonating thocks that enhance the overall typing experience. These differences highlight the diverse preferences that individuals may have when it comes to mechanical keyboard switches. 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
2.20 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 Silent Yellow and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing. This choice of material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for users who enjoy a more pronounced typing experience. The use of polycarbonate also allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to these switches. However, the Silent Yellow incorporates a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer and sound-absorbing properties.
On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring opts for a polycarbonate bottom housing, which further enhances the sharper and clearer sound profile associated with this material. While both switches offer similar sound characteristics in their top housing, the choice of bottom housing material plays a significant role in shaping the overall typing experience. The Silent Yellow's nylon bottom housing creates a duller and rounder sound, contrasting with the crisper sound produced by the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's polycarbonate bottom housing.
Overall, the difference in bottom housing material between the Outemu Silent Yellow and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring leads to distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences. While both switches share the benefits of polycarbonate in their top housing, the choice of bottom housing material contributes to the overall typing feel and sound output. Whether you prefer a deeper and fuller sound with nylon or a sharper and crisper sound with polycarbonate, each switch offers a unique typing experience tailored to different preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on your personal preference for sound, feel, and aesthetic considerations.
Weight
Both the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch offer unique force requirements that cater to different preferences. The Silent Yellow switch has a heavier actuation force of 65 grams and bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offers a lighter actuation force of 55 grams and bottom out force of 63 grams, making it a more suitable option for those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing or gaming sessions. While the Silent Yellow switch is heavier in both actuation and bottom out force, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch provides a medium force level. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches comes down to personal preference and typing style, with weight considerations playing a significant role in the decision-making process.
Travel distance
The travel distance of both the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch is 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing and contrasting their travel distance, both switches offer the same keypress experience in terms of how far the key travels from the top to the bottom. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of keypress feel and responsiveness when using either switch. So, whether you choose the Outemu Silent Yellow or the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, you can be assured of a consistent travel distance of 4 mm for a satisfying typing experience.
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 Yellow 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 Yellow switch is known for producing a quiet typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is described as clacky and high-pitched, providing a sharp and crisp sound with each keypress. The choice between the two switches would depend on your preference for sound, with the Silent Yellow offering a noise-free experience while the Shadow switch providing a more pronounced and lively typing sound.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Silent Yellow switch does not have a specific tactile feedback description available. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is known for its sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped tactile feedback. This means that each keypress on the Shadow switch will have a distinct and pronounced tactile bump, giving a lively and responsive typing experience. If you prefer a switch with a more noticeable tactile feedback, the Shadow switch would be the better choice.
Overall, the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch offers a quiet typing experience without a specific tactile feedback, making it suitable for those who prefer a low-profile and noise-free keyboard. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch provides a more pronounced and lively typing sound and feel, making it ideal for users who enjoy a sharp and responsive tactile feedback while typing. Both switches have their own unique qualities, so choosing between them would depend on your personal preference for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch or the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, it really comes down to your preferences and typing style. If you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a more silent typing experience, the Silent Yellow switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium-bottom out force and are looking for a tactile switch with a high level of tactility and a satisfying sound profile, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch would be a great choice. Ultimately, deciding between these two switches will depend on whether you prioritize a smooth linear typing experience or a tactile typing experience with an audible feedback.
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