Jerrzi Poseidon vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Poseidon and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Jerrzi Poseidon, a linear switch, and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, a tactile switch. The Poseidon switch is known for its smooth keystrokes without any tactile feedback, making it ideal for fast typists looking for a consistent feel. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offers a medium-high level of tactility with a two-staged spring that provides a satisfying bump when typing. Additionally, the Shadow switch produces deep and resonating thocks, adding to the overall typing experience. While the Poseidon switch may appeal to those who prefer a linear and silent typing experience, the Shadow switch caters to individuals who enjoy a tactile and responsive feel. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
pom
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
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 Jerrzi Poseidon and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring are quite different in terms of the sound profiles they produce. The Poseidon uses POM for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring utilizes polycarbonate for both top and bottom housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This contrast in sound profiles can significantly impact the typing experience for users, with the Poseidon providing a more subdued sound compared to the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's more pronounced clicks.
In addition to the auditory differences, the housing materials also play a role in the aesthetics of these switches. The translucency of polycarbonate used in the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through for a visually appealing effect. On the other hand, the opaque nature of POM used in the Poseidon may not have the same visual impact when paired with RGB lighting. This aesthetic consideration is something to keep in mind for users looking to customize their mechanical keyboards with lighting effects.
Overall, while the Jerrzi Poseidon and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring both offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials, the choice between POM and polycarbonate ultimately comes down to personal preference. Both materials have their own characteristics and advantages, with POM providing a more muted sound and polycarbonate offering a sharper, crisper sound. Whether you prioritize sound quality or aesthetics, understanding the impact of housing materials can help you make an informed decision when selecting mechanical keyboard switches.
Weight
The Jerrzi Poseidon linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch's 55 grams, making the Poseidon easier to trigger a keystroke with. However, the bottom out force for the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is 63 grams, providing a heavier and more substantial typing experience when compared to the Poseidon's unknown bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions may prefer the Poseidon, while individuals seeking a more forceful typing feel may opt for the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch. Both switches offer their own unique benefits based on the user's preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Jerrzi Poseidon linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Poseidon will require less force and distance to actuate compared to the Shadow (Ink), which may provide a more tactile experience with a bit more depth in key press. Gamers looking for quicker response times may prefer the Poseidon with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more deliberate keystroke may opt for the Shadow (Ink) with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jerrzi Poseidon has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Poseidon for $3.59.
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.
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 Jerrzi Poseidon linear switch is known for being relatively quiet, lacking a distinct sound profile. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch is characterized as clacky and high-pitched, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. The Shadow switch provides a deep, resonating thock that adds a satisfying auditory experience to typing. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's build quality and keycaps chosen.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Jerrzi Poseidon has a feeling that is not specific or well-known. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch offers a unique tactile experience. Described as sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped, this switch provides a high level of tactility that is both prominent and responsive. The distinct tactile bump and spring-like feedback give users a lively sensation with each keypress, enhancing the overall typing experience.
In conclusion, the Jerrzi Poseidon linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Poseidon switch provides a quieter typing experience with no specific sound profile or feel mentioned, the Shadow switch stands out for its clacky sound and sharp, bouncy tactile feedback. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, users can choose between a quieter and less tactile option with the Poseidon, or a more pronounced and tactile experience with the Shadow switch. Ultimately, both switches provide unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Jerrzi Poseidon linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, consider your preferences for bottom-out force, tactility, sound, and feel. If you prefer a switch with a medium bottom-out force and enjoy deep, resonating thocks while typing, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with no bottom-out force and are looking for a different typing experience, the Poseidon could be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style.
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