Outemu Silver vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silver and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Silver linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, the Silver is best known for its None categorization, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is highly recommended for those seeking a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility. The Aflion Shadow switch offers a lower actuation and bottom-out force, providing an approachable tactility to users. Additionally, it features a deep and thocky sound profile. The Silver switch falls under an undefined category, while the Shadow switch is categorized as 'Bouncy.' 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
65g
Bottom-out force
55g
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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Silver and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, we can see that both switches use polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Polycarbonate's stiffness leads to a clear and resonant sound, making it a popular option for switches that prioritize sound quality. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switches.
However, where the Silver utilizes a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound profile, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring sticks to polycarbonate for both top and bottom housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than polycarbonate, resulting in a duller and rounder sound for the Silver switch. This choice in material affects the overall typing experience and the sound that users will hear when bottoming out the keys. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring maintains a consistent material in both top and bottom housing, focusing on the crisp and resonant sound profile that polycarbonate offers.
The difference in bottom housing material between the two switches leads to a variation in sound profile and typing experience. The nylon bottom housing of the Outemu Silver contributes to a deeper sound when typing, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring maintains a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile throughout. This results in a distinction in sound and feel when using either switch. However, the top housing's use of polycarbonate in both switches ensures a similar crisp and resonant sound experience, especially when combined with RGB lighting for added visual appeal. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in sound and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Outemu Silver linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, it is evident that the Silver switch is lighter overall. The Silver switch has an actuation force of 45 grams, slightly lighter than the Shadow switch's 48 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Silver switch requires 65 grams, heavier than the Shadow switch's 55 grams. This means that while the Silver switch may feel lighter to type on initially, it provides a more substantial typing experience when fully pressed compared to the Shadow switch. Both switches offer a different typing experience, with the Silver being more suitable for longer typing sessions due to its lighter actuation force, and the Shadow switch providing a more tactile feel with its slightly heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference regarding typing feel and pressure sensitivity.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Silver 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 a key with either switch, you will experience a consistent travel distance. Despite both switches being equal in this aspect, they offer different typing experiences due to their distinct switch types. The Silver switch is a linear switch, providing a smooth and consistent keystroke without any tactile feedback or audible click. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is a tactile switch, offering a slight bump in the middle of the keystroke to provide tactile feedback to the user. Ultimately, while the travel distance remains the same between these two switches, the typing experience they offer can vary based on personal preferences for linear or tactile 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 Silver 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 Silver linear switch is known for being relatively quiet due to its smooth linear action. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is praised for its deep and thocky sound profile, which adds a satisfying auditory element to typing.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Silver switch is known for its smooth and consistent keystrokes with a lack of tactile feedback or audible click. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch offers a bouncy sensation with a medium level of tactility, providing a more engaging typing experience.
Overall, if you prefer a quieter typing experience with no tactile feedback, the Outemu Silver switch would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more tactile typing experience with a satisfying sound profile, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch would be a great option. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference when choosing between the two. Each switch will provide a different typing experience, but if you enjoy a bouncier tactile feel with a deeper sound profile, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch may be the better fit for you.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Outemu Silver linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, you should consider your preference for actuation and bottom-out force. If you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a bottom out force of 65 grams and are looking for a linear switch, the Silver may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light switch with a bottom out force of 55 grams and are in search of a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch may be more suitable. Additionally, if you enjoy a bouncy feel with spring-like feedback, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is designed to provide you with that unique typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for switch characteristics such as actuation force, tactile feedback, and sound profile.
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