Jwick Semi-Silent Linear vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single 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) Single Spring. The Semi-Silent Linear switch stands out for its innovative design, offering a whisper-quiet topping-out sound while maintaining a satisfying clacky bottom-out sound. Its type feel is silky smooth, striking a balance between being polished yet not overly so. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is highly recommended. With a lower actuation and bottom-out force, it provides a comfortable and approachable tactility. Additionally, it features a deep and thocky sound profile, adding to the overall typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
55g
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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring share similarities in their housing materials. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through, making it visually appealing for those who want to customize their keyboard with colorful lighting effects.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing materials. The Semi-Silent Linear utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound when typing. This can be desirable for individuals who prefer a quieter typing experience with a more muffled sound.
In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring incorporates a polycarbonate bottom housing. This choice of material maintains the switch's overall sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound, ensuring each keystroke produces a distinct and precise auditory feedback.
Overall, while the top housing of both switches provides a similar sound experience due to the use of polycarbonate, the differences lie in the materials used for the bottom housing. The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper and crisper sound. Therefore, depending on individual preferences, one may choose a switch based on the desired sound profile - a softer and muffled sound or a more distinct and precise sound.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. Firstly, the actuation force of the Semi-Silent Linear switch is unavailable, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch has an actuation force of 48 grams. This indicates that the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch requires a slightly lighter touch to trigger a keystroke.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Semi-Silent Linear switch has a force of 62 grams, which can be considered medium. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch has a bottom out force of 55 grams, which is slightly lighter than the Semi-Silent Linear switch.
In terms of weight, the lighter actuation force and bottom out force of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch may appeal to those who prefer a lighter typing experience. This lighter weight can be advantageous for longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions, as it reduces fatigue on the fingers.
On the contrary, the Semi-Silent Linear switch's slightly heavier bottom out force may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who enjoy a stronger push feel. This can offer a satisfying tactile feedback while typing, enhancing the overall typing experience.
In summary, while the actuation force and bottom out force of the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches differ, both switches fall within the medium to medium-light range. Whether one prefers a lighter or heavier typing experience will depend on personal preference and the specific use case of the keyboard.
Travel distance
The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches have slightly shorter travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch due to its slightly shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who prefer a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on a key may opt for the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Overall, the difference in travel distance between the two switches is minimal, so users can expect similar results in terms of the distance they feel when pressing down on a key.
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) 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 Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch is known for its innovative design, offering a unique combination of a whisper-quiet topping-out sound and a clacky bottom-out sound. This results in a subdued switch that produces a dampened sound when pressed, providing a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch does not have a specific description for its sound. However, it's important to note that a switch's sound can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen for use.
Moving on to the feel, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch is described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that most users will find approachable. It also has a snappy characteristic, which means it is super responsive and provides a more alive typing experience. Additionally, the switch is considered buttery, implying a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, resulting in seamless and effortless typing. This is likely due to factors such as materials used and/or factory lubing, which reduce friction and result in smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is described as bouncy. This means that these switches provide a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, giving the keys a lively feel and rebound when pressed.
Taking all the available information into account, it is clear that both switches offer distinct subjective qualities. The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear provides a unique sound profile with its semi-silent and clacky characteristics, along with a smooth and polished feel. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch offers a medium level of tactility with an approachable feel and a deep, thocky sound profile. While their characteristics differ, both switches provide satisfying experiences for users looking for specific qualities. If you are seeking a subdued sound and a gentle typing experience, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch would be a great choice. If you prefer a bouncier feel and a deep, thocky sound, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is a strong contender. However, it is important to keep in mind that individual preferences may vary and that factors such as keyboard board and keycaps can also affect the overall experience.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a linear switch that offers a whisper-quiet topping-out sound and a clacky bottom-out sound, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear would be a great choice for you. With a medium bottom out force of 62 grams, it provides a silky smooth type feel that is not over-polished. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch would be a highly recommended option. With a bottom-out force of 55 grams, it offers a very approachable tactility and features a deep and thocky sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your preference for sound and feel. If you prefer a subdued and neutral sound profile with a mild, snappy, buttery, or polished feel, the Semi-Silent Linear would be the way to go. However, if you prefer a bouncy feel with a deep and thocky sound, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch would be a perfect fit.
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