Jwick Semi-Silent Linear vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring. The Semi-Silent Linear is well-regarded for its innovation, offering a unique combination of whisper-quiet topping-out sound and a clacky bottom-out sound. Its silky smooth type feel adds to its appeal without being overly polished. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is known for its medium-high level of tactility, thanks to its two-staged spring design. Typing on these switches produces deep, resonating thocks that enhance the overall typing experience. Both switches have their own distinct characteristics, catering to different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
62g
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
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
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 Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring have similar polycarbonate top housings. The use of polycarbonate in both switches creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, both switches benefit aesthetically from the translucency of polycarbonate, especially if RGB lighting is involved.
However, when it comes to the bottom housings, the two switches differ. The Semi-Silent Linear features a nylon bottom housing, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has a polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring enhances the sharpness, high pitch, and crispness of the sound profile.
Due to the difference in bottom housings, pressing down on the switch will elicit different qualities. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. However, the sound when releasing a key is influenced more by the top housing. Therefore, while both switches have similar sound profiles with their polycarbonate top housings, the choice of bottom housing material allows for subtle variations in the overall experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. Firstly, in terms of weight, the provided information does not specify the exact weight of either switch. However, it is worth noting that weight can be an important consideration for keyboard enthusiasts. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find it more comfortable for extended periods of use, such as during work or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing feel may prefer switches with heavier forces.
Regarding actuation force, the exact measurement for the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch is unavailable. However, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch has an actuation force of 55 grams. This suggests that the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch requires a slightly lighter force to trigger a keystroke compared to the unknown actuation force of the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch.
Moving on to bottom out force, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which can be considered medium in terms of resistance. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch has a bottom out force of 63 grams, indicating a similar medium resistance level. Therefore, in terms of the bottom out force, both switches provide similar results with a slightly heavier force required for the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch.
In conclusion, while the actuation force of the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch is unspecified, its bottom out force is slightly lighter than that of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch. Both switches fall within the medium range of resistance, ensuring a satisfactory typing experience for those who prefer a balanced touch. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for weight and typing feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, there is a difference in length. The Semi-Silent Linear has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Semi-Silent Linear falls on the shorter end of the spectrum, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is slightly longer.
Traditionally, a 4.0 mm travel distance is considered standard, while 3.0 mm is viewed as more shallow. However, with evolving preferences, shorter travel distances have gained popularity, especially among gamers who value faster response times. If you prioritize quick responsiveness, opting for the switch with the shorter travel distance, such as the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear, may be the better choice.
On the other hand, some individuals find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt and prefer switches with more depth. If you desire a more substantial feeling when pressing down on a key, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, with its longer travel distance, might be the more suitable option for you.
Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preference and the sensation desired while typing or gaming. Both switches offer distinct experiences, with the Semi-Silent Linear providing a slightly shorter and potentially more responsive feel, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offers a longer and more pronounced depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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 Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch is best known for its innovative semi-silent label, which provides a whisper-quiet topping-out sound while maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound. The sound of this switch can be described as subdued, producing a dampened sound when pressed. It offers a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is known for its deep, resonating thocks when typing. It has a clacky sound profile, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. Additionally, it is described as having a high-pitched sound.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch provides a silky smooth type feel, which is not over-polished. It is described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience. It falls within a safe, middle-ground zone, suitable for most users. The switch can also be considered snappy, as it is super responsive due to longer or dual-staged springs. Additionally, the buttery and polished qualities of the switch result in a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with reduced friction.
On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is sharp and accented in terms of feel. It offers a high feedback intensity with a crisp tactile bump that can be distinctly felt with each keypress. The switch is also described as snappy and bouncy, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation. It has a stepped feel, which means it feels more mild compared to hypertactile switches, allowing for some pre-travel and/or post-travel.
In conclusion, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch differ in terms of sound and feel. The Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a subdued and clacky sound, while the Shadow (Ink) switch produces deep, resonating thocks with a clacky and high-pitched sound profile. In terms of feel, the Semi-Silent Linear switch provides a mild, snappy, buttery, and polished typing experience, while the Shadow (Ink) switch offers a sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped feel. Depending on the user's preference for sound and feel, they can choose between these two switches to achieve their desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, it is important to consider your preferences for sound and feel. The Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a subdued and neutral sound profile, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced users in various settings. It provides a mild and snappy typing experience with a silky smooth type feel. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch produces a clacky and high-pitched sound when pressed, offering a more vibrant and percussive typing experience. It features a sharp and accented tactile bump, providing a distinctive feedback with each keystroke. Ultimately, your choice should be based on whether you prefer a quieter and milder typing experience, or a louder and more tactile one.
Mentioned in this article
