Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Dareu Sky V4 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 V4 stand out as popular choices. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is a tactile switch known for its medium-high level of tactility and the deep, resonating thocks it produces while typing. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 is a linear switch that provides a smooth and satisfying typing experience with a deeper sound signature. While the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is described as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Sharp', 'Accented', 'Snappy', 'Bouncy', and 'Stepped', the Sky V4 is characterized as 'Thocky', 'Neutral', 'Low-pitched', and 'Bouncy'. Depending on your preference for tactility and sound signature, either switch could be a great choice. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POK
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 housing materials of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Dareu Sky V4 offer distinct advantages. The polycarbonate top housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring produces a sharp, high-pitched sound profile that is enhanced by its stiffness, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the POK top housing of the Sky V4 is praised for its smoothness and durability, providing a clacky sound with exceptional wear resistance. While both materials excel in different areas, polycarbonate offers a brighter sound profile, while POK delivers a smoother typing experience with added durability.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring mirrors the qualities of its top housing, featuring a sharp, crisp sound profile that complements the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Sky V4 offers a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softness, absorbing more sound and creating a rounder sound overall. This contrast in sound profiles between the two switches adds to their unique characteristics and appeal to different preferences.
Although the housing materials differ between the two switches, the impact of each material on the overall typing experience is significant. The qualities of the bottom housing are more pronounced during key presses, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when keys are released. This division of qualities between the top and bottom housing materials allows for a nuanced and tailored typing experience, catering to a variety of preferences and typing styles.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, it is evident that the Sky V4 is lighter in both categories. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, placing it in the medium range. On the other hand, the Sky V4 has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it slightly lighter with a medium-light classification. For users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Sky V4 would be the more suitable option. In contrast, those seeking a more robust typing experience with a heavier push might lean towards the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring. Both switches provide different levels of force feedback, catering to varying preferences for typing or gaming experiences.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, it is clear that the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has a longer travel distance at 4 mm compared to the Sky V4's 3.6 mm. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offers a bit more depth in key press, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more hearty feel when typing. On the other hand, the Sky V4's shorter travel distance may be favored by gamers seeking a quicker response time. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and typing experience. Both switches offer unique benefits depending on individual typing style and preference.
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 V4 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 V4 for $4.76.
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 Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is known for producing a clacky and high-pitched sound, offering a sharp and snappy typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 switch provides a thocky, neutral, and low-pitched sound profile, giving a deep and rich auditory feedback. The sound of each switch is also influenced by external factors such as the keyboard and keycap choices made by the user.
Moving on to the feel, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is described as sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped, providing a tactile experience with a strong and crisp feedback. Conversely, the Dareu Sky V4 switch is characterized as bouncy, offering a spring-like sensation with a lively rebound when pressed.
In conclusion, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch excels in providing a tactile typing experience with a medium-high level of tactility and a clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 switch stands out for its smooth linear action, deep thocky sound, and bouncy feel. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing styles. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on individual preferences regarding sound, feel, and typing experience desired.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility and enjoy deep, resonating thocks while typing, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth linear action with a unique sound signature and a satisfying typing experience, the Dareu Sky V4 would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches would depend on your preference for tactility and sound profile. Choose the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring for a more tactile experience and the Sky V4 for a smooth linear feel.
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