Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring vs. HMX SU
An in-depth look at the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the HMX SU switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, understanding the characteristics of each option can significantly impact your typing experience. The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, a tactile switch, is renowned for its medium-high level of tactility, delivering a satisfying feedback with each keystroke. Its unique long, two-staged spring contributes to the deep, resonating thocks that many users find enjoyable. This switch is classified with descriptors like 'Clacky' and 'Snappy', making it ideal for those who appreciate auditory and tactile satisfaction while typing. On the other hand, the HMX SU, a linear switch, offers a seamless and smooth typing experience with no tactile bump, which some users prefer for a quieter and more fluid feel. Sporting a full PA12 housing and a T5 stem, the SU produces a subtle, relatively deep sound profile, catering to individuals who want to minimize noise while maintaining a high level of performance. Ultimately, whether you lean towards the tactile engagement of the Shadow or the fluidity of the SU, both switches offer distinct advantages. 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
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
T5
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the HMX SU, it's clear that they utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings, resulting in distinct sound profiles. The Shadow (Ink) features polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound. This stiffer plastic contributes to a clear and resonant auditory experience, allowing for vibrant RGB lighting to shine through its translucent design. In contrast, the HMX SU employs nylon for both its top and bottom housings. As a softer plastic, nylon absorbs more sound, producing a deeper and fuller profile. This fundamental difference in material composition means that the Shadow (Ink) will likely yield a crisper, more articulated sound, whereas the HMX SU will deliver a warmer, more rounded acoustic experience.
The distinct sound characteristics of each switch are not only due to the different materials used but also their application across the top and bottom housings. In the case of the Shadow (Ink), its polycarbonate components enhance the overall resonance and clarity of keystrokes, making it particularly suited for users who appreciate a pronounced key response. Meanwhile, the HMX SU's nylon construction modifies the auditory feedback, minimizing sharpness and amplifying the depth of sound. Consequently, the Shadow (Ink) may feel more lively and responsive to touch, while the HMX SU provides a more subdued and cushioned typing experience. Thus, depending on user preference for auditory feedback, each switch has specific qualities that can either energize or mellow out the typing experience.
Despite their differences, both the Shadow (Ink) and the HMX SU can still offer enjoyable typing experiences, albeit in contrasting ways. If users are seeking a more vibrant and resonant sound, they would likely prefer the Shadow (Ink), while those who desire a fuller and more muted auditory profile might gravitate towards the HMX SU. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences in sound quality and tactile sensation, as both utilize the unique characteristics of their respective housing materials to deliver distinct yet equally viable results in a mechanical keyboard setting.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch and the HMX SU linear switch, there are notable differences in both their actuation and bottom out forces. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring requires an actuation force of 55 grams and bottoms out at 63 grams, categorizing it as a medium-weight switch. In contrast, the HMX SU linear switch is considerably lighter, with an actuation force of just 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This makes the SU a preferred choice for users seeking a lighter touch, ideal for lengthy typing sessions or extended gaming. Conversely, those who appreciate a stronger tactile feedback might lean towards the Shadow (Ink) switch, as its heavier forces provide a more substantial typing experience. Overall, the Shadow (Ink) is the heavier option compared to the lighter HMX SU, appealing to different preferences in keyboard feel and user experience.
Travel distance
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX SU linear switch offers a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference in distance indicates that the Shadow switch provides a more substantial tactile experience, which some users may prefer for the added depth during key presses. In contrast, the HMX SU’s shorter travel distance could appeal to gamers who favor quicker response times and a more immediate feedback feel. Ultimately, if you prioritize responsiveness, the shorter travel of the HMX SU may be more suitable. However, if you appreciate a deeper and more pronounced switch engagement, the Aflion Shadow would be the better choice.
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 HMX SU has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the SU for $3.29.
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 delivers a distinctive auditory experience characterized by deep, resonating "thocks" that embody a clacky quality. This switch produces a sharp, bright, and percussive sound, appealing to those who appreciate a more vibrant and lively typing experience. In contrast, the HMX SU linear switch features a more subtle and relatively deep sound profile, which may be less pronounced than that of the Shadow switch. Both sound experiences can be influenced by external factors such as the choice of keyboard case and keycap materials, but users can expect a more pronounced auditory feedback from the Shadow switches compared to the quieter and more muted tones of the SU.
In terms of feel, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is truly engaging, providing a satisfying tactile feedback that strikes a balance between presence and responsiveness. Its sharp and accented tactile bump is notably distinct, making each keystroke a pronounced experience. Users will appreciate the snappy and bouncy characteristics, which contribute to an energizing and dynamic typing sensation. The dual-staged spring further enhances the sensation of bounce, creating a lively feel that increases user engagement. Conversely, the offer from the HMX SU linear switch lacks specific descriptors, leaving its exact tactile feel uncharacterized; therefore, it may appeal to those who prefer a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke without tactile feedback.
In summary, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch is designed for users who enjoy a more expressive sound and pronounced tactile feel, while the HMX SU linear switch caters to those who prefer a quieter typing experience with the possibility of a smooth keystroke. The Shadow caters to the tactile enthusiasts with its sharp feedback and rich auditory profile, whereas the SU provides a subtlety that may be ideal for users focused more on a seamless, linear experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your preference for sound and tactile feedback, with the Shadow switch satisfying those seeking more engagement in both areas.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch and the HMX SU linear switch will largely depend on your typing preferences and the experiences you're looking to achieve. If you appreciate a tactile feedback that is both pronounced and satisfying, the Shadow switch is the ideal option, especially with its sharp, snappy feedback and medium-high level of tactility, making it perfect for typists who enjoy feeling each keystroke distinctly. This switch also delivers a clacky sound profile that can make typing feel lively and dynamic, lending an enjoyable auditory component to your work or gaming sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, quieter typing experience, the HMX SU switch, with its lighter 50-gram actuation force and subtle sound profile, may be more to your liking. This switch excels in environments where noise can be disruptive and is suitable for tireless typing sessions due to its diminished resistance. In essence, choose the Shadow (Ink) for a more engaging tactile feedback and auditory experience, while the HMX SU will serve you well if ease of typing and a softer touch are your priorities.
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