SP-Star RedBlue vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the SP-Star RedBlue and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
These RedBlue linear switches are something special. They are particularly suited for those who prefer a medium-light typing experience. The sound profile is a relatively higher-pitched and falls into the categories of low-pitched, neutral, mild, thocky, and polished. On the other hand, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility, we highly recommend the single spring variant of Aflion's Shadow switch, called the Ink. With a lower actuation and bottom-out force, users experience a very approachable tactility when using them. Additionally, the Ink switch features a deep and thocky sound profile, adding a satisfying auditory element to your typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Gold plated
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star RedBlue and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches are almost identical. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing that contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate allows for the use of RGB lighting, making it aesthetically pleasing for those who enjoy customizable lighting effects. Whether it's the RedBlue or the Shadow (Ink), users can expect similar results in terms of sound and lighting capabilities due to the shared polycarbonate top housing.
Similarly, the bottom housings of both switches are also made of polycarbonate material. This type of plastic is known for its stiffness, which leads to a clearer and more resonant sound profile. The impact and bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch will primarily be influenced by the characteristics of the polycarbonate bottom housing. Therefore, users of both the RedBlue and the Shadow (Ink) can expect a consistent tactile feedback and satisfying typing experience due to the shared polycarbonate bottom housing.
Overall, the similarities in the housing materials of the SP-Star RedBlue and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches result in comparable qualities and performance. Both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top and bottom housings, ensuring a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound response. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate enables RGB lighting options for those who want to enhance their keyboard's visual appeal. Whether it's the RedBlue or the Shadow (Ink), users can expect reliable and satisfying typing experiences thanks to the shared characteristics of their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, there are some similarities and differences in their actuation forces and bottom out forces. The actuation force of the RedBlue switch is unavailable, while the Shadow (Ink) switch has an actuation force of 48 grams. Both switches can be considered medium-light in terms of actuation force.
On the other hand, the bottom out force of the RedBlue switch is 57 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Shadow (Ink) switch, which has a bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that when typing on the RedBlue switch, there will be a slightly stronger push feel compared to the Shadow (Ink) switch.
Considering the importance of weight in keyboard usage, those who prefer a lighter feel may opt for the RedBlue switch as it allows for longer periods of comfortable typing, suitable for work or extended gaming sessions. On the contrary, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience and appreciate a stronger push feel may choose the Shadow (Ink) switch with its slightly heavier forces.
Overall, while the actuation forces of these switches differ slightly, they fall within the same medium-light range. The RedBlue switch is slightly heavier when it comes to bottom out force, but both switches offer a similar typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch is the distance it travels from the top to the bottom when pressed. In the case of the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on either of these switches, you will experience the same distance of travel. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches will provide similar results.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
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
The RedBlue linear switch is best known for providing a medium-light typing experience with a relatively higher-pitched sound profile. These switches are suitable for those who prefer a more gentle typing experience, and the sound produced is more bass-heavy and mellow. The RedBlue switch also has a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction.
On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is recommended for those looking for a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility. It has a lower actuation and bottom-out force, providing a very approachable tactility when typing. The sound profile of the Shadow (Ink) switch is described as deep and thocky, producing a satisfying "thud" or "knock" when the keys are pressed and released. Additionally, these switches offer a bouncy feel, giving a spring-like elastic feedback sensation.
Based on the available information, the RedBlue linear switch and the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The RedBlue switch provides a medium-light typing experience with a higher-pitched sound profile and a polished feel, while the Shadow (Ink) switch offers a medium level of tactility with a deep and thocky sound profile and a bouncy feel.
It's important to note that the sound and feel of a keyboard switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps. However, if you prefer a similar sound profile to the RedBlue switch, you can expect to achieve similar results by choosing a switch with a low-pitched sound profile and a polished finish. Similarly, if you prefer a similar feel to the Shadow (Ink) switch, you can look for switches that offer a bouncy feedback sensation.
Conclusion
In closing, if you prefer a medium-light typing experience with a higher-pitched sound profile, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. These switches are particularly suited for those who value a safe, middle-ground typing experience and appreciate the smooth and refined finish of a polished switch. On the other hand, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility and a lower actuation and bottom-out force, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is highly recommended. These switches offer a very approachable tactility and a deep, thocky sound profile. Additionally, the bouncy feedback sensation adds a lively feel to your typing. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your personal preferences for typing experience, sound, and feedback.
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