Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the SP-Star Duck are two popular options to consider. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is ideal for those who prefer a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility. With its long, two-staged spring, this variant offers a satisfying typing experience accompanied by deep and resonating thocks. On the other hand, the Duck switch provides a more subtle tactile typing sensation. If you're looking for a clean and crispy sound profile with a gentle tactility, the Duck switch is the perfect choice. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
58g
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the SP-Star Duck have many similarities. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top and bottom housings, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is known for its relatively stiffer plastic composition, which results in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it perfect for switches that feature RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through.
However, despite their common use of polycarbonate, there may still be subtle differences between the two switches. While both switches experience the benefits of polycarbonate in terms of sound profile and aesthetics, it is important to note that if the top and bottom housings are different for a given switch, the qualities of each housing material will be split between the top and bottom. Pressing down on the switches will primarily reveal the qualities of the bottom housing, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will have a more noticeable impact on the sound when a key is released.
In conclusion, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the SP-Star Duck share similarities in their housing materials, both utilizing polycarbonate for their top and bottom housings. The choice to use polycarbonate contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous for RGB lighting enthusiasts. However, it's essential to consider that the distribution of the housing materials between the top and bottom of the switches may result in slight variations in the overall sound and feel of the keys.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. The Aflion Shadow (Ink) has an actuation force of 55 grams, slightly lighter than the Duck, which does not provide an available gram measurement for its actuation force. Both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the Shadow (Ink) measuring 63 grams and the Duck measuring 58 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) may be the better choice, as its actuation force is slightly lighter. This can be advantageous for individuals who need to type for extended periods, such as professionals or gamers. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel and prefer a stronger push may lean towards the SP-Star Duck, as its actuation force is not specified or unavailable but has a slightly heavier bottom out force than the Shadow (Ink).
Ultimately, both switches offer a medium level of actuation and bottom out forces, providing a balanced tactile experience. Whether one will choose the lighter Aflion Shadow (Ink) or the potentially heavier SP-Star Duck will depend on personal preference and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either switch, you will feel the same distance of travel. Both switches offer a consistent tactile feedback and require a full 4 mm depression in order to activate. Therefore, whether you choose the Shadow Double Spring or the Duck switch, you can expect a similar 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 SP-Star Duck has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Duck for $5.40.
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 can be described as clacky and high-pitched. The sharp and snappy sound produced by these switches gives a crisp, bright, and percussive typing experience. On the other hand, the Duck switch has a neutral sound profile. With a moderate actuation force requirement, these switches produce a clean and crispy sound. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
Moving on to feel, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offers a range of sensations. It can be described as sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped. The strong and crisp tactile bump of these switches provides a high feedback intensity, making each keypress distinct. The longer or dual-staged springs of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch contribute to its snappy and responsive feel. Additionally, the bouncy and stepped characteristics of these switches give a lively and mildly tactile typing experience with some pre-travel and post-travel awareness.
In contrast, the Duck switch provides a mild and approachable typing experience. The switch falls into the safe middle-ground, offering a more gentle tactile feedback compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. It can be described as buttery and polished, implying a smooth and refined finish. The buttery feel of the Duck switch provides a seamless and effortless typing sensation, while the polished attribute ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch produces a clacky and high-pitched sound with a range of tactile feedback intensities, while the Duck switch provides a neutral and mild sound profile with a buttery and polished feel. Both switches cater to different preferences and typing experiences, so choosing between them would depend on the desired level of tactility and sound profile.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are seeking a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility and a deep, resonating sound profile, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is perfect for you. It provides a sharp and snappy clacky sound when pressed, which can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. Furthermore, its sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped feel intensifies the tactile feedback with each keypress.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle tactile typing experience with a clean and crispy sound profile, the SP-Star Duck switch is the ideal choice. It has a neutral sound profile, which means it produces a moderate sound that suits various purposes. The Duck switch offers a mild feel, providing a gentle and approachable typing sensation. Additionally, its buttery and polished characteristics ensure a smooth and refined typing experience.
Ultimately, the decision between the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch and the SP-Star Duck switch depends on your preferences for tactility, sound, and feel. Consider whether you prefer a medium-high level of tactility with a sharp and snappy sound or a more subtle tactile typing experience with a clean and crispy sound. Take into account the different feel options, such as a sharp and accented feel or a mild and buttery feel. By considering these factors, you can choose the switch that best suits your typing style and preference in both sound and feel. In the end, it's all about finding the switch that brings you the most satisfaction and enhances your typing experience.
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