Gateron Quinn vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Gateron Quinn and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Quinn and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring both offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience. The Quinn is known for its crisp, light tactility and deep, resonant sound profile. With each keystroke, you'll experience a precise and clean tactile bump, accompanied by a rich and immersive sound that adds character to your typing. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch provides a medium-high level of tactility with its long, two-staged spring. Typing on these switches produces deep, resonating thocks that create a satisfying experience. Both switches have their own merits, providing a tactile typing experience in their own way. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you best.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
59g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Quinn and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches have distinct characteristics that contribute to the sound profile and overall typing experience. The Quinn features a nylon top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound when typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, leading to a clearer and more resonant sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it suitable for incorporating RGB lighting.
Similarly, the bottom housings of both switches differ in material and influence the typing experience. The nylon bottom housing of the Quinn contributes to a deeper and fuller sound during bottom-out. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder sound profile. Conversely, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring creates a sharper and crisper sound. The relative stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the bottom-out sound. Furthermore, the translucent nature of polycarbonate is advantageous for switches incorporating RGB lighting.
When a switch features different top and bottom housings, each housing material imparts its unique qualities to specific aspects of the typing experience. The bottom housing primarily influences the bottom-out sound and feel, meaning that pressing down on the switch will reveal the characteristics of the bottom housing material. Conversely, the top housing contributes more to the sound when releasing a key, showcasing the properties of the top housing material. Despite their differences, both the Quinn and Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches offer distinct sound profiles and typing experiences based on their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Quinn tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. In terms of weight, the Quinn is slightly heavier than the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring. The Quinn has an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, classifying it as medium.
Both switches offer a tactile typing experience, with a noticeable bump when actuated. The actuation force of both switches falls within a similar range, providing a satisfying and responsive feel when typing or gaming. However, it is important to note that the Quinn requires a slightly higher force to actuate compared to the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, making it slightly more resistant to accidental keystrokes.
When it comes to bottoming out, the Quinn requires a higher force compared to the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring. This means that users who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience may gravitate towards the Quinn, as it provides a slightly firmer bottoming out sensation. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offers a lighter bottom out force, which may be appealing to those who prefer a more effortless typing experience for extended periods.
In conclusion, while both the Gateron Quinn and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches offer tactile feedback and fall within a similar weight category, there are slight variations in their actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the individual's preference for actuation and bottom out forces - whether they prefer a slightly heavier and more substantial feel (Quinn) or a slightly lighter and more effortless typing experience (Shadow).
Travel distance
The Gateron Quinn tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has a longer travel distance compared to the Quinn. Generally, a travel distance of 4.0 mm is considered the most traditional, while a travel distance of 3.0 mm is the most shallow. However, shorter travel distances have become popular, especially among gamers who prioritize faster response times. In this case, the Quinn would be the preferable choice. On the other hand, some individuals may find short travel distances too abrupt and might prefer a switch with a longer travel distance for a more substantial feel. Overall, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences regarding responsiveness and depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Quinn has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Quinn for $5.50.
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
The Gateron Quinn tactile switch is best known for its unique combination of crisp, light switch-like tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile. With its specially designed nylon housings, these switches offer a rich and immersive sound that adds character to the typing experience. The sound is described as bassy, clacky, and resonant, providing a clean and sharp auditory experience. In terms of feel, the Quinn switches are described as snappy, polished, bouncy, accented, buttery, and creamy. These switches are super responsive with a smooth and refined finish, reduced friction, and a spring-like feedback sensation. Typing on the Quinn switches feels effortless, seamless, and uniform, providing a silky sensation as the keys effortlessly melt into each keystroke.
On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch is known for its medium-high level of tactility. These switches feature a long, two-staged spring that provides a strong and crisp tactile bump with each keypress. Typing on the Shadow switches produces deep and resonating thocks, creating a sharp and snappy sound. The sound is described as clacky and high-pitched, offering a crisp and bright sound profile. In terms of feel, the Shadow switches are sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped. These switches provide high feedback intensity with a prominent and distinct tactile bump, as well as a spring-like feedback sensation and a mild feel with pre-travel and/or post-travel.
In comparing the two switches, it is clear that they have some similarities in terms of sound and feel. Both switches offer a deep and resonant sound profile, with the Quinn switches being described as bassy and the Shadow switches as clacky. Both switches provide a snappy and responsive feel, with the Quinn switches being described as polished, bouncy, buttery, and creamy, while the Shadow switches are described as accented and stepped. However, it is important to note that the sound and feel of a switch can also be affected by other factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps. Regardless, both the Gateron Quinn and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches offer unique and immersive typing experiences with their distinct sound profiles and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron Quinn tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences for typing sound and feel. If you prioritize a unique combination of crisp, light switch-like tactility and a deep, resonant sound, the Quinn switches are a great choice. With their specially designed nylon housings, you can expect a precise, clean, and crisp tactile bump as well as a rich and immersive typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility and deep, resonating thocks when typing, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches are perfect. These switches offer a sharp and snappy sound, accompanied by a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be felt distinctly with each key press. It's important to consider your personal preferences for typing sound and feel when making your decision, as both switches offer their own unique qualities.
Mentioned in this article
