Outemu Spring Breeze vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the Outemu Spring Breeze 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 Spring Breeze and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offer distinct features for different preferences. The Spring Breeze is a clicky switch, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is a tactile switch. If you enjoy the satisfying click sound and feedback while typing, the Spring Breeze may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle tactile bump without the audible click, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring could be the switch for you. 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
40g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.50 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
Nylon
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 Spring Breeze and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, it is evident that they differ significantly in terms of material composition and resulting sound profiles. The Spring Breeze's nylon housing is known for producing a deep and full sound due to its soft and sound-absorbing properties. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's polycarbonate housing creates a sharper and clearer sound with its stiffer composition. While both materials have their advantages, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate will ultimately come down to personal preferences for sound and typing experience.
In terms of aesthetics, the choice between the Spring Breeze's nylon housing and the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's polycarbonate housing can also impact the visual appeal of the switches. The translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed to showcase RGB lighting, adding an extra dimension to the overall look of the keyboard. In contrast, the opaque nature of nylon may offer a more classic and understated appearance. Whether you prefer a switch that stands out with colorful lighting or one that blends seamlessly into your setup, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate housing can play a significant role in achieving the desired aesthetic.
While the Spring Breeze and Shadow (Ink) Single Spring may differ in their housing materials, both switches are designed to enhance the typing experience by contributing to the overall sound profile and feel of each key press. Whether you prioritize a deeper, fuller sound with the Spring Breeze's nylon housing or a sharper, crisper sound with the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's polycarbonate housing, both options provide unique qualities that can cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two housing materials will depend on individual preferences for sound, typing feel, and aesthetics.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The Spring Breeze has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's 48 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes with less effort. However, both switches share the same bottom out force of 55 grams, providing a consistent feel when pressing down fully. Those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions may lean towards the Spring Breeze, while users seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in that aspect. This means that users can expect a similar key press experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. This similarity allows for consistency in typing feel and feedback between the two switches. Despite other differences in their designs and mechanisms, the travel distance for both switches remains the same, providing users with a familiar typing experience regardless of which switch they choose.
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 Spring Breeze 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 Spring Breeze clicky switch is known for its crisp and satisfying click sound, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is praised for its deep and thocky sound profile, providing a more muted and smooth typing experience compared to a clicky switch. The sound produced by both switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Spring Breeze switch lacks specific descriptors, making it difficult to pinpoint its tactile feedback. Meanwhile, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is described as "bouncy," offering a spring-like and elastic feedback sensation that provides a lively and responsive typing experience. This tactile feedback is key for users who prefer a certain level of feedback when pressing down on the keys.
Overall, if you are someone who values a pronounced click sound and potentially more feedback in your typing experience, the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience with a medium level of tactility, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch could be the ideal option. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the overall typing experience you are looking for.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a clicky switch with a medium-light bottom out force and moderate sound profile, the Outemu Spring Breeze would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility and a deep, thocky sound profile, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your preference for clicky or tactile switches, as well as the sound and feel you are looking for in your mechanical keyboard setup. Choose wisely based on what suits your typing style and preferences best.
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