Jerrzi Poseidon vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Poseidon and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Jerrzi Poseidon linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch are two options worth considering. The Poseidon is well-known for its smooth and consistent linear feel, making it a popular choice for gamers and typists alike. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is highly recommended for those seeking a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility, offering a satisfying bump without being too overwhelming. Additionally, the Shadow switch features a deep and thocky sound profile, adding to the overall typing experience. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Jerrzi Poseidon and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, it is evident that the Poseidon utilizes POM for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a pleasing and unique sound profile that leans towards the deeper and more muted side. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring incorporates polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness and clarity. While the Poseidon's housing material remains consistent throughout, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offers a more uniform sound profile across the switch due to the use of polycarbonate in both housings.
When it comes to the top housing specifically, the Poseidon's POM material produces a unique sound that is both pleasing and on the deeper side, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile that is particularly well-suited for RGB lighting effects. Aesthetically, the translucency of the polycarbonate top housing adds a visually appealing element to the switch. As for the bottom housing, both switches maintain the same housing material as the top, with the POM bottom housing of the Poseidon contributing to its overall muted sound profile, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring enhances the clear and resonant sound produced by the switch.
Ultimately, the choice between POM and polycarbonate housing materials in switches like the Jerrzi Poseidon and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring comes down to personal preference in sound profile and aesthetics. While the Poseidon offers a consistent and pleasing sound profile throughout, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring provides a sharper and crisper sound thanks to the use of polycarbonate in both the top and bottom housing. Whether you prefer a deeper and more muted sound or a higher-pitched and clearer sound, both switches deliver unique qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Jerrzi Poseidon linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, it is clear that the Poseidon is lighter with an actuation force of 40 grams compared to the 48 grams of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring. Both switches have an unknown bottom out force, but the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is considered medium-light at 55 grams. This means that the Poseidon will provide a lighter typing experience, making it ideal for longer typing sessions or extended gaming, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring will offer a slightly more substantial push feel for those who prefer a bit more resistance while typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for typing force and overall typing experience desired.
Travel distance
The Jerrzi Poseidon linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it a shorter option compared to the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch with a 4 mm travel distance. The Poseidon's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Shadow's longer travel distance might be preferred by those who enjoy a deeper key press. Both switches offer distinct experiences based on their travel distances, so choosing between them ultimately depends on personal preference for responsiveness or key press depth.
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) 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 Jerrzi Poseidon linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch have different profiles. The Poseidon switch is known for a quiet sound signature, suitable for those looking for a more subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is praised for its deep and thocky sound, providing a satisfying auditory feedback while typing. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard case and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Jerrzi Poseidon linear switch does not have specific descriptions available. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is characterized as bouncy. This means that the keys provide a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, giving users a lively feel and rebound when pressed. If you prefer switches with a bouncy feel, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch might be the ideal choice for you.
Considering all the available information, it is evident that the Jerrzi Poseidon linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch offer different experiences in terms of sound and feel. While the Poseidon switch provides a quiet typing experience, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch offers a deeper sound profile and a bouncy tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and typing feel. If you enjoy one aspect of one switch but prefer the other aspect of the other switch, you can mix and match to achieve a similar overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are new to mechanical keyboards and prefer a smoother typing experience without the tactile bump, the Jerrzi Poseidon linear switch might be your best choice due to its lack of bottom out force. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium-light tactile bump with a deep and thocky sound profile, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch could be the perfect fit for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for tactile feedback and sound profile in order to enhance your overall typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
