Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the TTC Silent Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, there are a variety of options available to cater to different typing preferences. Two such switches worth considering are the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the TTC Silent Brown, both of which fall under the tactile switch category. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is renowned for its medium-high level of tactility, making it ideal for those who prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback. Additionally, typing on these switches produces a deep, resonating thock sound that adds a satisfying auditory element to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Brown switches provide a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a rounded tactile bump that is equally satisfying. What sets them apart, however, is their muted sound profile, perfect for those who prefer quieter typing sessions. It is important to note that these are high-level generalities, and to truly determine the best switch for you, it is advisable to delve deeper into the unique characteristics and personal preferences that each switch offers.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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 housing materials of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the TTC Silent Brown switches share some similarities in terms of their polycarbonate top housings. Both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housings, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar sound characteristics and visual effects when using either switch.
However, the bottom housings of the two switches differ in terms of materials. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring utilizes polycarbonate for its bottom housing, while the Silent Brown utilizes nylon. With the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, typing on the polycarbonate bottom housing will result in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, similar to its top housing. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Silent Brown produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, users can choose which sound profile they prefer based on their personal preferences.
When pressing down on these switches, the qualities of the bottom housing will have a more noticeable impact. The bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel, so the choice between polycarbonate and nylon can greatly influence the overall typing experience. Conversely, the top housing of the switch will have a more significant impact on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, users can expect differences in the sound produced during key press and release moments depending on the materials used for the top and bottom housings.
In summary, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the TTC Silent Brown switches offer distinct sound profiles due to their housing materials. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, resulting in a sharp and clear sound profile, especially when RGB lighting is involved. However, their bottom housings differ, with the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's polycarbonate bottom housing producing a sharper sound, and the Silent Brown's nylon bottom housing offering a deeper and fuller sound. These differences in sound characteristics are particularly noticeable during key press and release moments, with the bottom housing having a more significant impact on the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. In terms of actuation force, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring requires 55 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, while the Silent Brown requires a slightly lighter 45 grams. This means that the Silent Brown provides a slightly more responsive typing experience, requiring less force to initiate a keystroke.
However, when it comes to bottom out force, both switches have a similar measurement of 63 grams. This means that regardless of the lighter actuation force of the Silent Brown, both switches require the same amount of force to fully press down and bottom out the keys. So, in terms of the overall force required throughout the keystroke, the results are quite similar for both switches.
Considering weight, some individuals may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Silent Brown as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. This makes it a suitable choice for those who spend extended periods working or gaming on their keyboard. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience and enjoy a stronger push feel may lean towards the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, with its slightly heavier actuation force. This can provide a more satisfying and tactile typing experience.
In conclusion, while the Silent Brown has a lighter actuation force compared to the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, both switches share a similar bottom out force. The choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preference, with those seeking a more responsive typing experience opting for the Silent Brown, while those desiring a heavier keystroke may prefer the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring.
Travel distance
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch have different travel distances. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Silent Brown has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. The Shadow (Ink) switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Silent Brown switch. However, both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances.
If you prefer a shorter travel distance, the Silent Brown switch would be a better option as it offers a slightly shallower 3.8 mm travel distance. This shorter travel distance is often favored by gamers who require faster response times. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial depth to your key presses, the Shadow (Ink) switch's 4 mm travel distance would provide a more satisfying feel.
It's important to consider your personal preferences and needs when choosing between these switches. The shorter travel distance of the Silent Brown switch allows for quick and rapid keystrokes, which is advantageous for gaming. However, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt and prefer the longer travel distance provided by the Shadow (Ink) switch. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on your desired typing or gaming experience and the level of responsiveness you are seeking.
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 Brown 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 Brown for $5.00.
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 Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is known for producing a clacky and high-pitched sound. This means that the sound is sharp, crisp, and percussive, providing a distinct and lively auditory experience. On the other hand, the Silent Brown switch offers a muted sound profile. This means that the sound produced is softer and quieter, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. The Silent Brown switch provides a more subtle and soothing typing sound.
In terms of feel, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offers a sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped tactile experience. The high feedback intensity of the switch's sharp tactile bump provides a prominent and distinct feel with each keypress. The presence of dual-staged springs makes the typing experience feel more responsive and alive, giving the keys a spring-like and elastic feedback sensation. The stepped switch design allows for some pre-travel and/or post-travel, providing a mild and distinctive tactile sensation. On the other hand, the Silent Brown switch offers a buttery, mild, and polished typing experience. The smooth and fluid keystroke of the Silent Brown switch gives a seamless and effortless typing sensation. The mild characteristics of the switch make it approachable to most users, offering a gentle typing experience. The polished switch design ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Considering all the available information, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility and enjoy the deep, resonating thocks while typing, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch would be a suitable choice. However, if you are seeking a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance, a satisfying rounded tactile bump, and a muted sound profile, then the Silent Brown switch would be more suitable for you. Both switches offer unique qualities, so it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. It is worth noting that the sound and feel of a switch can also be affected by factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps. In either case, you can expect to get similar results in terms of sound and feel, as both switches provide high-quality tactile feedback and a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are seeking a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility and enjoy the deep, resonating thock sound while typing, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring would be the ideal choice for you. Its sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped characteristics provide a distinctive and lively typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a more comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump, along with a muted sound profile, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch is the way to go. With its buttery, mild, and polished feel, you can expect a smooth and effortless typing sensation. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on your personal preferences for tactility and sound.
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