Akko Penguin vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the Akko Penguin and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Akko Penguin and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring are two distinct mechanical keyboard switches worth considering. The Penguin is the go-to choice for those seeking a silent tactile switch, making it ideal for office environments where noise minimization is essential. With a rounded tactile bump, it offers satisfying feedback without the clatter. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring provides a more approachable level of tactility with a lower actuation and bottom-out force, creating a bouncy typing experience. Both switches strike a balance between responsiveness and user comfort, ensuring optimal performance during prolonged typing sessions. 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
43g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko Penguin and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, it is evident that they have distinct characteristics despite both being used in mechanical keyboard switches. The Penguin utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of the material. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring incorporates polycarbonate in its housings, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile attributed to the material's stiffness. This difference in housing materials leads to varying typing experiences and sound feedback for users of each switch.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Akko Penguin and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, both switches offer unique benefits to users. The nylon housings of the Penguin contribute to a duller and rounder sound while the polycarbonate housings of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring provide a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for compatibility with RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switch. Both switches offer a tactile typing experience, but the choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preferences for sound, feel, and visual customization.
Ultimately, the choice between the Akko Penguin and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring comes down to individual preference and typing style. While the nylon housings of the Penguin offer a softer and fuller sound profile, the polycarbonate housings of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring provide a sharper and crisper typing experience. Whether one prefers a deeper, more muted sound or a clearer, more resonant sound, both switches deliver unique qualities that cater to different users' needs. Regardless of the differences in housing materials, both switches offer high-quality performance and customizable options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Penguin tactile switch to the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, the Penguin has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Shadow's 48 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Penguin requires 60 grams, which is heavier than the Shadow's 55 grams. This means that the Penguin offers a lighter initial push for typing but a heavier resistance when fully pressed, providing a balance between ease of use and tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Shadow provides a slightly heavier actuation force but a lighter bottom out force, making it a more consistent experience throughout typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on the individual's preference for a lighter initial push or a more consistent typing experience.
Travel distance
The Akko Penguin tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Penguin. The Penguin's 3.3 mm travel distance falls on the shorter end of the spectrum, making it a great choice for those who prefer faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's 4 mm travel distance provides a bit more depth, which may be preferred by those who like a more substantial feel when pressing down on the switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the type of typing or gaming experience desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko Penguin has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Penguin for $3.10.
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.
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 Akko Penguin switches are known for their muted profile, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches. This makes them an excellent choice for office environments or shared spaces where noise reduction is important. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches feature a deep and thocky sound profile, providing a satisfying auditory feedback during typing. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them would depend on your specific sound preference and environment.
In terms of feel, the Akko Penguin switches are described as polished, mild, feathery, and subtle, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with a gentle actuation force. This makes them comfortable for prolonged typing sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches are described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation that gives a lively feel to the typing experience. This can be appealing for users who prefer a more responsive and tactile feel when typing. Both switches offer different tactile experiences that cater to varying preferences, so the choice between them would depend on your typing style and preference for tactile feedback.
Overall, the Akko Penguin switches are best suited for those looking for a quieter typing experience with a balanced tactile bump, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches are ideal for users who prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback and a spring-like sensation. Both switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, so choosing between them would depend on your specific preferences and the environment in which you plan to use the keyboard. Ultimately, both switches are great options for those looking for a tactile typing experience, and either choice would provide a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, consider your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize a quiet typing experience with a balanced tactile feedback and medium weight, the Akko Penguin switch is an excellent choice, especially for office environments. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a lower actuation and bottom-out force, approachable tactility, and a deep sound profile, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on factors such as noise level, typing feel, and intended use to ensure you have the best typing experience tailored to your preferences.
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