Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 43g
An in-depth look at the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two standout options are the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, a tactile switch, and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g, a linear switch. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offers a medium-high level of tactility, perfect for those who enjoy a pronounced feedback as they type. Its long, two-staged spring design creates a satisfying depth in sound, producing resonant "thocks" that many find enjoyable. This switch is categorized by its clacky, high-pitched, and snappy characteristics, making it ideal for users who appreciate auditory cues along with tactile sensations. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g caters to typists seeking a more serene experience. With an ultra-light bottom-out force of 43g, these linear switches provide a whisper-quiet typing experience akin to raindrops softly tapping on a window, making them perfect for shared workspaces or late-night typing sessions. While both switches serve distinct typing preferences—one favoring tactile feedback and sound, and the other offering a tranquil, muted experience—let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g, a clear distinction emerges in their top housings. The Shadow features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiff nature, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This characteristic makes the switch particularly suited for clear and resonant auditory feedback, especially when used in conjunction with RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the Silent Sakura utilizes nylon for its top housing. This classic material tends to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile, owing to its softer and sound-absorbing properties, which results in a duller tonal quality. While both switches can provide satisfying feedback, their differing top housing materials will influence the auditory experience in unique ways, with the Shadow exuding brightness and clarity and the Sakura imparting a more mellow tone.
The bottom housings of both switches present an interesting parallel, as both the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g utilize polycarbonate for this component. This shared material leads to a similar performance in terms of sound profile and tactile feedback. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate means both switches will deliver a crisp bottom-out sound, likely pleasing users who favor a pronounced auditory experience. In this instance, no matter which switch is engaged, the bottom housing’s polycarbonate construction ensures that the sound remains uniformly sharp and resonant, promoting an experience that is consistent across both models.
Ultimately, the differences in the top and bottom housings between the Shadow and Sakura switches highlight how each contributes to the overall performance. The Shadow's polycarbonate top allows for a bright, clear sound upon releasing the key, while the Silent Sakura's nylon top generates a softer and fuller auditory experience. However, both switches will exhibit a similar sharpness and clarity at the bottom due to their shared polycarbonate bottom housing. Therefore, typists can expect an enjoyable and consistent tactile feedback regardless of their choice, while the sound experience will depend more significantly on the top housing material chosen.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring requires a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, making it a suitable choice for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Silent Sakura features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, which caters to those who desire less resistance and greater comfort during extended typing or gaming sessions. This makes the Aflion Shadow (Ink) heavier overall, while the HMX Silent Sakura is the lighter of the two switches. If someone prefers tactile feedback without the extra weight, the Silent Sakura may be the better option, while those looking for more resistance may lean towards the Shadow (Ink) for its firmer feel.
Travel distance
Both the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch feature the same travel distance of 4 mm. This similarity in travel distance means that users can expect a comparable key press experience when utilizing either switch, leading to similar results in terms of feel and responsiveness. The consistent 4 mm travel in both switches suggests they will deliver an equally satisfying tactile interaction, regardless of the differing switch types.
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 HMX Silent Sakura - 43g comes in at $3.50 per 10 switches.
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 comparing the sound profiles of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches, the differences are quite pronounced. The Shadow switch is characterized by a deep and resonating thock, providing a clacky and high-pitched auditory feedback that creates a lively and dynamic soundscape when typing. This sharp, percussive sound profile is ideal for users who enjoy an energetic typing experience. In contrast, the Silent Sakura is engineered to deliver a whisper-quiet performance, producing soft sound akin to gentle raindrops. Users looking for a serene and unobtrusive typing environment will appreciate the near-silence of the Silent Sakura, making it an excellent choice for shared spaces or quiet environments.
In terms of tactile feel, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is lauded for its sharp and pronounced feedback. The combination of its dual-staged spring and accentuated tactile bump ensures that each keystroke feels distinct and responsive, creating an engaging typing experience. This switch’s bounciness and snappy responsiveness further contribute to a lively feel, providing users with a tactile sensation that is both enjoyable and productive. On the other hand, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g is designed for a smoother experience with minimal tactile feedback. While the specific feel qualities are not detailed, the focus on a lighter 43g bottom-out force suggests a more subdued typing experience, ideal for those who prefer to glide across the keys without the intrusive tactile interruptions.
In conclusion, choosing between the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g involves weighing the importance of sound and tactile feedback in your typing experience. If you favor richer auditory sensations and a strong tactile response, the Shadow switch is an excellent option that will deliver sharp and lively feedback. Alternatively, if a quieter typing environment with a more subtle feel is your priority, the Silent Sakura is designed to accommodate that need seamlessly. With these distinct characteristics, both switches cater to different preferences, ensuring that there’s a suitable option for every typing style.
Conclusion
To wrap up, the choice between the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal typing preferences and the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard. If you're a typist who enjoys a pronounced tactile feel and a satisfying auditory feedback with each keystroke, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) is an excellent option. Its medium-bottom-out force of 63 grams and its sharp, snappy response make it ideal for those who appreciate a bit of dynamism in their typing. The deep, resonating thocks add an engaging sound profile that can enhance your typing experience, making it perfect for a setting where noise is not a major concern. Conversely, if you're looking for a more subdued typing experience that remains serene and quiet—particularly in shared spaces or while coding late at night—the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g is perfectly suited for your needs. Its ultra-light 43g actuation force ensures that your keystrokes are gentle and effortless, providing a peaceful ambiance. In essence, choose the Shadow switch for enjoyment in tactile feedback and sound, and opt for the Silent Sakura if you prioritize a calm typing atmosphere without sacrificing responsiveness.
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