Outemu Tom vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Outemu Tom and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Tom, a tactile switch, with the Aflion Shadow Ink Double Spring, another tactile switch, distinct differences emerge. The Tom is best known for its unique characteristics, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is praised for its medium-high level of tactility and deep, resonating thocks during typing. The Tom is categorized as tactile, whereas the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring falls under categories such as clacky, high-pitched, sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped. If you are looking for a switch with specific tactile feedback and sound qualities, either one of these may suit your preferences. 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
55g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
The Outemu Tom and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced by the switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. However, the Tom's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon's softer properties allow it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switches.
In terms of aesthetics, both the Outemu Tom and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring feature clear polycarbonate top housings, making them visually appealing, especially when combined with RGB lighting. However, the difference in bottom housing material between the two switches impacts the overall sound profile. While the Tom's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's polycarbonate bottom housing leads to a sharper and crisper sound. This contrast highlights how the choice of housing materials can significantly influence the typing experience and overall feel of the switches.
Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Tom and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring comes down to personal preference in sound profile and feel. The combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in the Tom offers a balance between sharpness and depth in sound, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring provides a more consistent and resonant sound profile throughout due to its polycarbonate top and bottom housing. Both switches excel in their own ways, making them suitable options for different typing preferences and styles.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Tom tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, both switches have the same actuation force of 55 grams. However, the Tom switch does not have a specified bottom out force, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch has a bottom out force of 63 grams, making it the heavier option. The actuation force is important for determining the force required to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force indicates the amount of force needed to press the key all the way down. The lighter actuation force of both switches may be preferred by those who type for longer periods or engage in extended gaming sessions, while the heavier bottom out force of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing experience and the desired level of force required.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Tom tactile switch is 3.3 mm, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has a longer travel distance compared to the Outemu Tom. The shorter travel distance of the Tom may be preferred by those looking for a faster response time, such as gamers. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring may be more suitable for individuals who appreciate a deeper key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preference and the desired 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 Tom 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 Tom switch is known for being relatively quiet with a subtle and soft sound profile, making it a good choice for those who prefer a more understated typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is described as clacky and high-pitched, producing a sharp and snappy sound that is bright and percussive. Depending on personal preference, the Tom switch may be more suitable for those who prefer a quieter typing experience, while the Shadow switch may be preferred by individuals who enjoy a more lively and pronounced sound while typing.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Tom switch has a tactile bump that is described as None, making it difficult to gauge the level of tactility without further information. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is known for its sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped tactile feedback. This indicates that the Shadow switch provides a highly tactile typing experience with a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be felt distinctly with each keypress. The presence of a two-staged spring in the Shadow switch also adds to the responsive and lively feel while typing.
Overall, the Outemu Tom switch is characterized by its quieter sound profile and an unknown level of tactility, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offers a more pronounced and lively sound with a high level of tactile feedback. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches cater to different typing experiences. If you enjoy a more subtle and soft typing experience, the Tom switch may be the better choice, while those who prefer a sharper and more tactile feel may lean towards the Shadow switch. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in sound and feel.
Conclusion
In summary, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a lighter bottom out force and a more subtle tactile bump, the Outemu Tom switch would be a good choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-high level of tactility and enjoy a deep, resonating typing sound, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch would be more suitable for you. Additionally, if you appreciate a sharp and snappy sound when typing, as well as a strong and crisp tactile bump, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch would be the better option for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of tactility, sound, and overall typing experience.
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