Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring vs. TTC Silent Bluish White (V2)
An in-depth look at the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options are the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the TTC Silent Bluish White. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility. With its long, two-staged spring, this variant of the Shadow switch provides a satisfying typing experience, accompanied by deep, resonating thocks. On the other hand, the Silent Bluish White offers a "medium tactile" feel, giving users a precise and comfortable typing experience. These switches are designed to be as quiet as possible, making them ideal for office or shared living space use. While the Shadow switch is categorized as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Sharp', 'Accented', 'Snappy', 'Bouncy', and 'Stepped', the Silent Bluish White is described as 'Buttery', 'Mild', 'Stepped', 'Muted', 'Subtle', and 'Polished'. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the TTC Silent Bluish White both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, allowing for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that have RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of these switches. Therefore, users can expect similar sound and visual experiences from both the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the TTC Silent Bluish White due to their shared top housing material.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, these switches differ in material. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring utilizes polycarbonate for its bottom housing, while the Silent Bluish White opt for nylon. The polycarbonate bottom housing continues to contribute to the clear and resonant sound profile, ensuring a consistent auditory experience throughout the keystroke. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Silent Bluish White provides a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when compared to polycarbonate. Users who prefer a deeper and more muted sound may find the Silent Bluish White to be their preferred choice.
In terms of feel, the qualities of the top and bottom housings come into play when using these switches. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, whereas the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. So, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Silent Bluish White may have similar sound profiles due to their polycarbonate top housing, the choice of bottom housing material will result in a noticeable difference in the typing experience, with the Silent Bluish White offering a deeper and fuller sound during bottom-out.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch, we can observe some notable differences. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring requires an actuation force of 55 grams, while the Silent Bluish White requires only 42 grams, making it lighter in terms of force required to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has a force of 63 grams, whereas the Silent Bluish White has a lighter force of 50 grams. This means that the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring provides a slightly heavier and more substantial typing experience, while the Silent Bluish White offers a lighter touch. These differences in force can influence the preference of individuals, as some may prefer a lighter switch for prolonged typing sessions, while others may appreciate a stronger push feel for a more impactful typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is the more traditional option. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. These differences in travel distance can have an impact on the overall typing experience. Gamers, for example, often prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times, making it ideal for quick and precise keystrokes. Those who prioritize responsiveness might find the shorter travel distance of the Silent Bluish White switch more suitable. However, for individuals who prefer a more substantial and satisfying key press, they may find the longer travel distance of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch more appealing. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Bluish White (V2) for $4.63.
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 Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is best known for its medium-high level of tactility and deep, resonating thock sound when typing. These switches are described as clacky and high-pitched, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. The feel of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped. It offers a high feedback intensity with a distinct tactile bump and a responsive typing experience due to its longer or dual-staged springs. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Bluish White switch offers a medium tactile feel with a satisfying level of resistance. These switches are designed to be as quiet as possible, making them suitable for office or shared living space use. The Silent Bluish White switch is described as muted, buttery, mild, stepped, subtle, and polished in terms of sound and feel. It provides a softer and quieter sound compared to a regular or clacky switch and offers a smooth, fluid keystroke experience with a gentle typing feel. Overall, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and TTC Silent Bluish White switches offer different sound profiles and tactile experiences. However, both switches provide a satisfying level of tactility and can deliver precise typing experiences. Based on your preference for sound and feel, you can choose between the clacky and high-pitched sound of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch or the muted and buttery sound of the TTC Silent Bluish White switch.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are seeking a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility and enjoy the deep, resonating thocks when typing, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a lighter bottom out force and a "medium tactile" feel that offers a precise and comfortable typing experience, the TTC Silent Bluish White is the switch for you. Moreover, if you prioritize a quieter typing experience in office or shared living spaces, the Silent Bluish Whites are designed to be as quiet as possible. However, if you prefer a switch that produces a sharp and snappy sound with a higher pitch, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring would be more suitable. In terms of feel, if you prefer a switch with a sharp and strong tactile bump, a more responsive typing experience, or a bouncy and stepped sensation, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, more gentle typing experience, a muted sound, a mild or subtle tactile feedback, or a polished finish for reduced friction, then the TTC Silent Bluish White is the better option. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your personal preferences for tactility, sound, and feel. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so consider what factors are most important to you in order to make an informed decision.
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