Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Dareu Sky POM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Dareu Sky POM stand out as excellent options, each with its own unique characteristics. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is a tactile switch that offers a medium-high level of tactility, making it a great choice for those who prefer a more pronounced feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM is a linear switch known for its premium quality at an accessible price point, offering a smooth typing experience with a gentle actuation force. While the Shadow switch provides deep, resonating thocks and is categorized as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Sharp', and 'Snappy', the Sky POM switch offers a clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and is categorized as 'Buttery', 'Low-pitched', and 'Creamy'. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
POM
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 spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housing, giving it a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material's stiffness contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound, particularly noticeable when using RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM features a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound profile compared to polycarbonate. The Sky POM's nylon bottom housing, however, offers a different typing experience with a fuller and rounder sound due to its softer properties that absorb more sound.
Although both switches have unique housing materials, they each bring distinct sound profiles to the table. The polycarbonate housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring results in a sharper and crisper sound, ideal for users seeking a more defined typing experience. In contrast, the POM and nylon housings of the Dareu Sky POM provide a deeper and fuller sound, catering to those who prefer a quieter and more muted typing sound. Despite their differences, both switches offer a variety of options for users looking to customize their typing experience based on sound preferences.
When comparing the top and bottom housing materials of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Dareu Sky POM, it is evident how each material contributes to the overall typing experience. The split between the two housing materials impacts both the bottom-out sound and the sound when releasing a key. While the Sky POM's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper sound during keystrokes, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's polycarbonate top housing enhances the sound when keys are released. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, it is clear that the Shadow switch is heavier. The Shadow switch has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, while the Sky POM switch has an actuation force of 40 grams with an unknown bottom out force. Despite the weight difference, both switches offer a tactile typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Sky POM switch, enabling longer typing or gaming sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Shadow switch provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier actuation and bottom out force for those seeking a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in typing experience.
Travel distance
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Dareu Sky POM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Sky POM has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring. Both of these distances fall within the range of traditional travel distances for switches. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Sky POM for faster response times, while others may prefer the slightly longer travel distance of the Shadow (Ink) for a more substantial keypress feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and keypress feel.
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 Dareu Sky POM has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sky POM for $4.98.
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
In terms of sound, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is best known for its clacky and high-pitched characteristics, providing a sharp and percussive typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM switch offers a low-pitched sound profile, creating a more bass-heavy and mellow tone during typing sessions. Both switches offer distinct auditory feedback, with the Shadow switch leaning towards a brighter and crisper sound compared to the Sky POM switch's mellower tones. When considering the sound quality of these switches, it's important to note that the overall sound can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard layout and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is recognized for its sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped tactile qualities. These characteristics result in a typing experience with a strong tactile bump that is prominent and lively, providing a responsive and dynamic feel to each keypress. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM switch is described as buttery, creamy, and silky, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with minimal resistance. While both switches provide tactile feedback, the Shadow switch leans towards a more intense and pronounced tactility, whereas the Sky POM switch focuses on a seamless and effortless typing sensation. It's worth noting that individual preferences for typing feel can greatly influence the choice between these two switches.
Overall, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch and the Dareu Sky POM switch offer unique sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches. If you prefer a clacky, high-pitched sound profile with sharp tactile feedback, the Shadow switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a low-pitched, buttery typing experience with smooth and fluid keypresses, the Sky POM switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, ultimately, when considering whether to choose the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch or the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, it boils down to your preference for tactility and sound profile. If you are looking for a medium-high level of tactility with deep thocks and a sharp, snappy sound, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and buttery typing experience with a low-pitched, clacky sound, the Sky POM is the better choice for you. Each switch offers unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider what type of typing experience you prioritize before making your decision.
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