Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When deciding on a mechanical keyboard switch, the choice between tactile and linear switches can greatly impact your typing experience. The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring stands out as a top choice for those who prefer a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility. The long, two-staged spring in this variant provides a unique typing feel, accompanied by deep, resonating thocks. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie offers a linear switch option that boasts a thocky sound signature, remarkable smoothness, and a lightweight touch. While the Shadow switch is described as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Sharp', 'Accented', 'Snappy', 'Bouncy', and 'Stepped', the Smoothie switch is categorized as 'Buttery', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', 'Subdued', and 'Silky'. Each switch has its own distinct characteristics and benefits, catering to different preferences and typing styles. 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
3.60 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Gateron Smoothie, one major difference lies in their housing materials. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the Smoothie utilizes a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and relatively more muted sound. While both materials offer unique sound profiles, the polycarbonate in the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is better suited for RGB lighting due to its translucency, adding an aesthetic advantage.
Another point of comparison is the bottom housing of the two switches. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's polycarbonate bottom housing shares similar characteristics with its top housing, providing a sharp, clear sound profile. Conversely, the Smoothie's POM bottom housing offers a more pleasing and unique sound, leaning towards the deeper and more muted end of the spectrum. This difference in bottom housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience, as the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed.
Overall, the choice between the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Gateron Smoothie ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile. While the polycarbonate material of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring results in a sharper and crisper sound, the POM material of the Smoothie offers a deeper and more muted sound experience. Both switches provide unique qualities that cater to different preferences, making it essential for users to consider their desired sound profile when choosing between the two. Regardless of the differences in housing materials, both switches are sure to provide a satisfying typing experience with their distinct sound profiles.
Weight
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch has a higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Gateron Smoothie linear switch with 40 grams, making the Smoothie lighter in this aspect. In terms of bottom out force, the Shadow (Ink) requires 63 grams while the Smoothie's force is unknown. Both switches provide a different typing experience due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Smoothie for extended typing sessions or gaming, while others may prefer the heavier actuation force of the Shadow (Ink) for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Smoothie has a shorter travel distance compared to the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch. The difference may seem small, but it can impact the typing experience for users. Those who prefer a faster response time may opt for the Smoothie with the shorter travel distance, while others who enjoy a deeper keypress may prefer the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch with a longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing or gaming.
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 Gateron Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie for $2.60.
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 is known for its clacky and high-pitched characteristics, providing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie offers a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, producing a deep, rich, and satisfying tone. While the Shadow switch emits a more crisp and bright sound, the Smoothie delivers a bass-heavy and mellow tone, catering to different sound preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct sound profiles depending on the user's preference, with the Shadow switch leaning towards a sharper sound and the Smoothie providing a deeper, more subdued tone.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offers sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped tactile sensations, creating a highly responsive and tactile typing experience with distinct feedback intensity. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie provides a buttery, creamy, and silky typing feel, ensuring a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with minimal resistance. Both switches offer unique tactile feedback, with the Shadow switch delivering a more pronounced and lively feel, while the Smoothie focuses on providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation.
In conclusion, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Shadow switch excels in providing a sharp, clacky sound and a sharp, tactile feel, catering to those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback and audible typing experience. On the other hand, the Smoothie switch stands out for its thocky, low-pitched sound and buttery, creamy typing feel, appealing to those who prefer a smoother and more subdued typing experience. Both switches provide unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, ensuring a personalized typing experience for users based on their sound and tactile feedback preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, consider your preference for tactility and sound. If you are looking for a medium-high level of tactility and enjoy a deep, resonating sound when typing, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and thocky typing experience with a lightweight touch, the Gateron Smoothie might be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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