Outemu Phoenix vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Outemu Phoenix and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Phoenix and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offer distinct experiences for users. The Phoenix stands out as a clicky switch with its unique under-skirt click mechanism, making it the most unique clicky switch available today. With its crunchy and polished feel, it provides a satisfying and crisp typing experience. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is a tactile switch that offers a medium-high level of tactility. The long, two-staged spring in this variant provides a deep and resonating thock sound while typing. It offers a clacky and sharp feel with a high-pitched accent, giving it a snappy and bouncy nature. 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
N/A
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
1.80 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Phoenix and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches, both made of polycarbonate, contribute to a similar sound profile. Due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, these switches produce a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound when activated. This makes them suitable for users who enjoy a clear and resonant sound feedback while typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous for those who plan to incorporate RGB lighting into their keyboard setup. Therefore, whether it's the top or bottom housing, polycarbonate ensures consistent sound characteristics and visual appeal.
However, while both switches share the same housing material, they may differ in the overall typing experience. The bottom housing of a switch plays a more significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, influencing the overall tactile feedback when pressing down on a key. Therefore, the specific design and structure of the polycarbonate bottom housing can vary between the Outemu Phoenix and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches, potentially offering distinct typing sensations. On the other hand, the top housing is primarily responsible for the sound produced when releasing a key, contributing to the overall auditory experience. Thus, the polycarbonate top housing may differ slightly in design and influence the sound feedback upon key release in each switch.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Outemu Phoenix and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches, both utilizing polycarbonate, provide comparable results in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. The relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate contributes to a clear, resonant, and higher-pitched sound, ideal for users seeking a distinctive auditory feedback. Furthermore, the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the switches' visual appeal, especially when coupled with RGB lighting. However, differences may arise in the bottom housing, affecting the typing experience, while the top housing influences the sound upon key release, potentially introducing subtle variation between the two switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, it is evident that both switches have a relatively medium bottom out force. However, their actuation forces differ slightly. The Phoenix switch's actuation force is listed as unavailable, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch has an actuation force of 55 grams. It is noteworthy that both switches offer a comparable typing experience in terms of bottom out force, with the Phoenix switch measuring at 62 grams and the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch at 63 grams.
Considering the weight aspect, individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience for prolonged durations may lean towards the Outemu Phoenix switch, assuming its actuation force falls within their desired range. This lighter weight would be advantageous for professionals typing for extended periods at work or gamers indulging in lengthy gaming sessions. Alternatively, individuals desiring a more robust and substantial typing feel may opt for the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch, as its actuation force is slightly heavier at 55 grams. This heavier force would provide a more pronounced push during keystrokes, contributing to an enhanced typing experience.
In conclusion, while the actuation forces of the two switches are not explicitly provided for a direct comparison, the similar medium bottom out forces allow for a comparable typing experience. The Outemu Phoenix switch appears to be lighter, potentially catering to those seeking a longer typing endurance, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offers a slightly heavier actuation force, ideal for individuals desiring a stronger push feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, there is a notable difference. The Phoenix has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Phoenix falls into the category of shorter travel distances, which is favored by gamers seeking faster response times. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offers a longer travel distance, providing a deeper and more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a hearty depth. Therefore, choosing between these two switches ultimately depends on the individual's preference for either responsiveness or a more immersive typing sensation.
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 Phoenix comes in at $4.15 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 Phoenix clicky switch stands out for its unique under-skirt click mechanism. This results in a distinctive crunchy sound profile, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch produces a clacky and high-pitched sound when pressed. This switch variant is known for its sharp and snappy sound, which can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. Both switches offer a satisfying auditory experience, but they have different qualities.
Moving on to the feel of these switches, the Outemu Phoenix is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience. This is achieved through materials used and factory lubing, which reduce friction and provide a sleek key travel. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offers a sharp and accented tactile feel. Its tactile bump is strong and crisp, making it prominent and distinct with each keypress. Additionally, the Shadow switch is known for being snappy and bouncy, offering a super responsive and spring-like feedback sensation.
In conclusion, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Phoenix provides a unique and crunchy clicky sound, the Shadow switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound. In terms of feel, the Phoenix provides a polished and smooth typing experience, while the Shadow switch offers a sharp and accented tactile feel, coupled with snappiness and bounce. It is important to note that the ultimate typing experience is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, there are a few factors to consider. The Phoenix offers a unique clicky experience with its under-skirt click mechanism, providing a crystalline and sparkling feel and sound profile. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is perfect for those seeking a medium-high level of tactility, thanks to its long, two-staged spring.
In terms of sound, the Phoenix offers a crunchy experience, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring produces a clacky and high-pitched sound, sharp and crisp when pressed. If you prefer a more bright and percussive sound, the Shadow switch is a great choice.
When it comes to feel, the Phoenix provides a polished typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, on the other hand, offers a range of descriptors from sharp and accented tactile feedback to snappy and bouncy sensations. Additionally, it has a stepped feel with distinct pre-travel and/or post-travel.
Ultimately, your choice between the Phoenix and the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring will depend on your preferences for clicky versus tactile switches and the desired sound and feel. Consider what kind of typing experience you are seeking, and whether you prioritize the unique clicky mechanism of the Phoenix or the medium-high tactility and deep thocks of the Shadow switch. By carefully considering these factors, you can find the switch that best suits your needs and enhances your mechanical keyboard experience.
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