Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you are in the market for a tactile mechanical keyboard switch, two options that stand out are the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp). The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is renowned for its medium-high level of tactility, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a satisfying typing experience. Furthermore, users can expect deep, resonating thocks when using these switches, adding to the overall enjoyment of typing. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is a popular choice for individuals looking for both tactile feedback and a silenced switch. This switch provides a medium bump and a padded bottom-out feel, ensuring a comfortable typing experience while minimizing noise. With its subdued audio feedback, it is particularly well-suited for noise-sensitive environments. Both switches have their unique features and benefits, however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Standard
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This material choice results in a similar sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the use of RGB lighting, making it aesthetically pleasing for those who enjoy customization.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring differs from the Silent T1 (Shrimp). The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring also incorporates polycarbonate for its bottom housing, emphasizing the benefits of a stiffer plastic for a clear and resonant sound profile. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) opts for a nylon bottom housing. This choice provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound.
When comparing the overall sound and feel of the switches, it is important to note that the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. Therefore, while both switches share similarities in their top housing materials, the choice of bottom housing materials differentiates them in terms of the sound profile experienced when pressing down on a key. Additionally, the top housing material, which is polycarbonate for both switches, will have more influence on the sound produced when a key is released. Thus, users can expect somewhat similar results in terms of sound and feel, but with slight variations due to the housing materials used.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has an actuation force of 55 grams, while the actuation force of the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is unavailable. This means that the exact force required to trigger a keystroke with the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is unknown. However, both switches have a medium actuation force according to available information.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring requires 63 grams of force, whereas the Silent T1 (Shrimp) requires slightly more at 67 grams. This makes the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch slightly heavier in terms of bottom out force compared to the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring.
In terms of weight, some individuals prefer lighter switches as it allows them to type for longer periods of time without fatigue. This is particularly useful for those who use their keyboards extensively for work or long gaming sessions. Others, however, prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. For these individuals, heavier force switches are more suitable.
It is important to note that while the exact actuation force for the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is unknown, based on the available information, it is likely to provide a similar typing experience to the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, as both switches fall within the medium actuation force category. However, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) does have a slightly higher bottom out force, providing a slightly heavier typing experience compared to the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring.
Travel distance
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch have an equal travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either switch, you will feel the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Both switches provide a consistent and comfortable typing experience in terms of travel distance.
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 Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent T1 (Shrimp) for $5.57.
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 Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is known for producing deep, resonating thocks. This gives the keyboard a crisp, bright, and percussive sound, making it rather clacky and high-pitched. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch is designed to be muted, offering a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches. It aims to minimize noise and create a more subdued audio experience. It is important to note that the sound produced by each switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, both switches share some similarities. They are described as accented switches, meaning they provide a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. They both offer a medium bump and are stepped switches, providing a mild tactile experience with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. This creates a tactile feedback that is distinct yet not too intense. Additionally, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch is also described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Considering all the available information, it is clear that both the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switches offer a satisfying tactile experience. While the Shadow switch leans towards providing a clacky and high-pitched sound, the Silent T1 switch focuses on creating a muted and quieter sound profile. In terms of feel, both switches offer an accented and stepped tactile experience. The Silent T1 switch also boasts a polished finish, enhancing the smoothness of key travel. Ultimately, depending on your preferences for sound and feel, either switch can deliver a enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are seeking a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility and enjoy deep, resonating thocks when typing, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you desire both a tactile and silenced switch for noise-sensitive environments, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) is ideal. With its medium bump, padded bottom-out feel, and subdued audio feedback, it offers a unique typing experience.
When it comes to sound, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring produces a clacky and high-pitched sound, which adds a crisp and bright element to your typing experience. If you prefer a softer and quieter typing sound, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is the way to go. Its muted sound minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards.
In terms of feel, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring provides a sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped tactile feedback. The prominent tactility and distinct keypress feel make it a compelling option for those who appreciate a high feedback intensity. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) offers a stepped and accented tactile feel, along with a polished finish. This smooth and refined typing experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel, is perfect for users who prefer a sleek typing experience.
Ultimately, the decision between the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) comes down to your personal preferences and priorities. Whether you prioritize tactility, sound, or feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. Consider your specific needs and choose the switch that aligns best with your desired typing experience.
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