Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring vs. TTC Silent Red
An in-depth look at the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the TTC Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the TTC Silent Red. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring stands out as a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility, thanks to its long, two-staged spring. Typing on these switches resounds with deep, resonating thocks, making for a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red offers a smooth and seamless typing experience without all the noise. With a muted sound profile, these switches are ideal for those in office or shared living spaces. They provide a consistent feel from top to bottom and offer a padded bottom-out feel for maximum comfort. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
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
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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 Red exhibit some similarities. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This choice of material leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended to be used with RGB lighting. Therefore, in terms of sound characteristics and aesthetic appeal, users can expect similar results from both the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Silent Red.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the two switches diverge in their material choices. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring employs polycarbonate for its bottom housing, while the Silent Red incorporates nylon. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile due to polycarbonate's stiff nature. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Silent Red produces a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile.
The difference in housing materials between the top and bottom also affects the overall feel and sound of the switches. Pressing down on either switch will primarily be influenced by the qualities of the bottom housing. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Conversely, the top housing contributes more to the sound when the key is released. Therefore, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Silent Red may share some similarities due to their polycarbonate top housings, their choice of bottom housing material significantly impacts their overall sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, there are some notable differences. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has an actuation force of 55 grams, slightly higher than the Silent Red's 45 grams. This means that the Shadow (Ink) requires a slightly stronger push to trigger a keystroke. However, both switches have the same bottom out force of 63 grams, providing a similar typing experience in terms of the amount of force required to fully press the key. In terms of weight, the Shadow (Ink) is slightly heavier due to its higher actuation force.
Considering the weight preference, those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods may lean towards the Silent Red, as its lower actuation force allows for longer and more comfortable typing sessions. Additionally, this lighter weight may be advantageous for individuals using their keyboard for work or engaging in long gaming sessions. Conversely, for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel and a stronger push force, the Shadow (Ink) may be the preferred choice, as its actuation force is slightly higher. This heavier weight may provide a more satisfying tactile experience for individuals who prefer a more pronounced keystroke.
In summary, while the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch differ, both switches offer a similar bottom out force, ensuring a comparable typing experience in terms of the force needed to fully press the key. The decision between the two switches may ultimately come down to personal preference, with the Silent Red providing a lighter typing experience and the Shadow (Ink) offering a heavier and more substantial push force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, it is evident that the Shadow switch has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Silent Red switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. The 4.0 mm travel distance of the Shadow switch falls within the range of traditional distances, providing a balanced depth for typing. On the other hand, the Silent Red switch's 3.7 mm travel distance is slightly shallower, making it a popular choice among gamers seeking faster response times. However, it is important to note that shorter travel distances may feel too abrupt for some individuals who prefer a deeper keystroke sensation. In conclusion, the selection of either switch ultimately depends on a person's individual preference for responsiveness or a more substantial keystroke experience.
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 Red has an MSRP of $5.28 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Red for $4.38.
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 Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch produces a clacky and high-pitched sound. The sound is sharp, snappy, and crisp, with a bright and percussive quality. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red switch creates a muted sound profile. This switch is designed to minimize noise and produce a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches. It offers a more pleasant typing experience for office or shared living spaces. However, it's important to note that the sound of the switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch provides several notable characteristics. It offers a sharp tactile feel, with a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be distinctly felt with each keypress. It's described as an accented switch, which means it provides a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. Additionally, the switch is snappy and bouncy, offering a responsive and lively typing experience. It also features a stepped design, meaning it has two stages to the key travel, providing some pre-travel and/or post-travel feedback. In contrast, the TTC Silent Red switch is buttery and mild. It delivers a smooth and gentle typing experience with a seamless and effortless feel. The switch is polished, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Overall, the Silent Red switch falls in a safe middle-ground zone, offering a comfortable and approachable typing sensation.
Considering all the available information, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch and the TTC Silent Red switch have distinct qualities. The Shadow switch is best suited for those seeking a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility and a sharp, clacky sound. It offers a responsive and lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Red switch is perfect for individuals looking for a smooth and silent typing experience. It produces a muted sound and has a buttery and polished feel. Both switches have their own unique characteristics and can provide an enjoyable typing experience based on personal preferences. If you prefer a tactile experience with a sharp sound, the Shadow switch is the way to go. If you prioritize a smooth and quiet typing experience, the Silent Red switch will deliver similar results.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you're seeking a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility and enjoy the deep, resonating thocks when typing, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and seamless typing experience with a muted sound profile, the TTC Silent Red switch is a great option, especially if you plan to use it in an office or shared living space.
In terms of sound, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is clacky and high-pitched, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. In contrast, the Silent Red switch is muted, offering a softer and quieter typing experience, perfect for minimizing noise in your surroundings.
In terms of feel, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped, providing a strong and crisp tactile bump with each keypress. On the other hand, the Silent Red switch is buttery, mild, and polished, delivering a smooth, gentle, and polished typing sensation.
Ultimately, the choice between the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch and the TTC Silent Red switch depends on your preferences for tactility, sound, and feel. Consider your typing environment and desired typing experience, and select the switch that best suits your needs.
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