Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, gamers and typists alike often find themselves choosing between different tactile experiences to enhance their overall performance. The Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie, known for its medium-weight and all-POM construction, offers a linear experience that prioritizes smoothness and a thocky sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a quieter keyboard without sacrificing typing feel. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring provides users with a tactile sensation characterized by a medium-high level of tactility and a distinct deep thock, making it ideal for individuals who appreciate clear feedback with every keystroke. While the Sea Salt Smoothie is perfect for those who seek a sleek and uninterrupted typing experience, the Shadow switch caters to users who enjoy the feeling of a tactile bump during their typing sessions, adding elements of fun and engagement. 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
48g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm extended double-stage spring
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing housing materials of the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches, a clear distinction emerges in their construction and the resulting sound profiles. The Sea Salt Smoothie features POM (Polyoxymethylene) material for both its top and bottom housings, which contributes to its unique sound signature. The POM housing creates a warmer, deeper, and more muted sound profile that is appreciated by users seeking a subtle auditory experience. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings, which offers a much sharper and higher-pitched sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's greater stiffness relative to POM, resulting in a clear and resonant sound that appeals to users who prefer a brighter auditory feedback when typing.
Aesthetic considerations further set these two switches apart. The clear polycarbonate housing of the Aflion Shadow allows RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing visual effects and overall user experience. In contrast, the POM housing of the Sea Salt Smoothie lacks translucency, focusing instead on providing a more understated visual presence. While the visual appeal of polycarbonate can enhance modern builds with lighting effects, the more muted aesthetic of POM caters to traditionalists who prefer a straightforward, elegant look. These differences not only influence the choice of switch depending on personal preferences for visual aesthetics but may also correlate with how users experience feedback from their keyboards.
In terms of auditory and tactile feedback, the differences in housing materials lead to varied experiences when using each switch. The sharper sound profile of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's polycarbonate contributes more directly to the auditory feedback when releasing a key, while the deeper tones of the Sea Salt Smoothie's POM material dominate the bottom-out sound and feel. Users looking for a combination of attributes may consider how the housing materials influence the overall typing experience, as the qualities of each housing material are split between the top and bottom housings. While both switches offer distinct sound profiles, they highlight how particular housing materials can shape not just the auditory but also the aesthetic experience of mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch exhibit distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces, which may influence user preferences according to typing style and comfort. The Sea Salt Smoothie has an actuation force of 48 grams, making it the lighter option, suitable for users who favor a swift typing experience that minimizes finger fatigue during extended sessions. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has a higher actuation force of 55 grams, offering a more substantial feel that appeals to those who prefer a heavier typing experience. Furthermore, the Shadow switch demonstrates a defined bottom out force of 63 grams, indicating a firmer response when key presses are fully depressed. The Sea Salt Smoothie's bottom out force remains unknown, leaving it uncertain how it compares in this aspect. users looking for a lighter touch should consider the Sea Salt Smoothie, while those desiring more resistance might gravitate towards the heavier Shadow switch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, a noticeable difference emerges. The Sea Salt Smoothie features a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offers a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that if a user prioritizes a quicker response time, the Sea Salt Smoothie would be the more favorable choice, as its shorter distance facilitates swifter actuation. In contrast, the longer 4 mm travel distance of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring may appeal to those who appreciate a more substantial key press and depth in their typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches hinges on individual preferences regarding responsiveness versus a pronounced tactile feel, with the Sea Salt Smoothie being the shorter option and the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring being the longer one.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sea Salt Smoothie for $2.70.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie switch produces a thocky sound profile that is notably satisfying, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a rich auditory experience while typing. This medium-weight all-POM switch offers a deep resonance that enhances the overall soundscape of your keyboard. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is characterized by its deep, resonating thocks, which lend a very distinct auditory signature to each keystroke. Together, both switches contribute to a tactile experience, but their sound profiles may vary, leaning more towards the snappy and clacky attributes of the Shadow switch, offering a sharper, more percussive sound when pressed.
When considering feel, the Sea Salt Smoothie is recognized for its exceptional smoothness, a quality that allows for fluid keystrokes and minimizes any scratchiness that can detract from the typing experience. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offers a multi-faceted tactile experience. Described with features like sharp feedback, accentuated tactility, and a snappy response, the Shadow switch provides a lively and bouncy feel, effectively engaging users with its two-staged spring mechanism that enhances the keypress sensation. While the smoothness of the Sea Salt focuses on fluidity, the Shadow’s design encourages a pronounced tactile response, appealing to different typing preferences.
In conclusion, whether you lean towards the smooth, thocky audio and feel of the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie or the sharp, tactile engagement of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, both offer unique yet satisfying keyboard experiences. The Sea Salt Smoothie excels in delivering a rich and smooth typing experience, while the Shadow provides a more pronounced tactile feedback with a snappy auditory profile. Your choice will ultimately depend on personal preference, as the sound and feel of these switches are finely tuned to cater to distinct typing styles.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prioritize smoothness and a refined sound profile, the Sea Salt Smoothie is an ideal candidate, especially for those who enjoy a buttery-smooth keypress without any tactile interruption. It’s perfect for fast, uninterrupted typing, gaming, or if you simply prefer a quieter experience. On the other hand, if you appreciate a pronounced tactile feel and enjoy the feedback during your typing sessions, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring shines with its medium-high tactility. It's particularly suited for users who crave a sharper and more dynamic typing experience, with a satisfying thocky sound that complements its responsive nature. In summary, your decision should reflect what you value most in a switch: smooth and silent action versus tactile and expressive feedback.
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