Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring vs. Everglide Sunset Yellow

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Everglide Sunset Yellow. Both switches offer unique features and benefits that cater to different preferences. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility, perfect for those seeking a satisfying key feel. Additionally, its long, two-staged spring generates deep, resonating thocks while typing, creating an immersive experience. On the other hand, the Sunset Yellow is a linear switch that boasts a captivating sound profile reminiscent of mahjong tiles colliding. With its rich, bassy, and decadent sound, typing becomes an indulgent experience. The POM stem and proprietary factory lube method contribute to a distinct gliding feel, while the combination of very short travel and a long-pole stem ensures a sharper and highly responsive typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you decide on the best switch for your specific needs.

By the numbers

Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring Tactile

Everglide Sunset Yellow Linear

$4.50

$3.57 per 10

$3.09 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Everglide Sunset Yellow differ significantly. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which allows for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. In contrast, the Sunset Yellow has a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and relatively more muted sound profile. While both materials enhance the overall sound quality of the switches, they offer distinct characteristics.

The disparity between the bottom housings of the two switches is also notable. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring contributes to its sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. When the switch is pressed, the qualities of the bottom housing come into play, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the POM bottom housing of the Sunset Yellow creates a unique sound profile that leans towards the deeper side and is relatively more muted. These differences in housing materials have a tangible impact on the overall typing experience, as they determine the sound and tactile feedback when a key is pressed.

While there are distinct contrasts between the housing materials of the two switches, there are also similarities. Both the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Sunset Yellow feature a translucent housing, although they are made from different materials. This translucency is advantageous for switches that utilize RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through effectively. Additionally, both polycarbonate and POM housings enhance the sound quality of the switches, albeit in different ways. Therefore, although the materials used may differ, users can expect similar results in terms of improved audio performance from both switches.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch and the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch, there are some notable differences. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams, compared to the Sunset Yellow's lighter actuation force of 43 grams. Similarly, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has a heavier bottom out force of 63 grams, while the Sunset Yellow has a lighter bottom out force of 51 grams.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Sunset Yellow would be the more suitable option. Its lower actuation and bottom out forces allow for smoother and quicker keystrokes. This makes it ideal for extended typing sessions or intense gaming sessions.

However, for individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring may be the better choice. With its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces, it provides a more tactile and satisfying typing experience.

Both switches fall within the medium to medium-light range, so users can expect relatively similar results in terms of overall typing feel. The decision ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style, as some may prioritize a lighter switch for longer typing sessions, while others may appreciate the added weight for increased feedback and precision.

Travel distance

The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. With a 0.8 mm difference, it can be said that the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has a longer travel distance than the Sunset Yellow switch. The traditional travel distance of 4.0 mm provides a deeper feel when pressing down on the key, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more hearty depth to their typing. On the other hand, the Sunset Yellow switch's 3.2 mm travel distance offers a more shallow and responsive typing experience, which is favored by gamers and those who desire faster response times. Both switches provide different tactile experiences due to their varying travel distances, allowing users to choose according to their personal preferences.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched characteristics. Pressing these switches produces a sharp and snappy sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Sunset Yellow switch offers a bassy and thocky sound profile. Key presses result in a deeper and richer sound resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. The sound can be described as a deep "thud" or a soft "knock" upon pressing and releasing the keys. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors like the keyboard board and keycaps used.

Moving on to feel, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offers several descriptors. It is characterized as sharp, meaning it has a high feedback intensity with a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be distinctly felt with each keypress. Additionally, it is considered accented, providing a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. The switch is also snappy due to longer or dual-staged springs, making the typing experience feel more alive. Furthermore, it has a bouncy feel, offering a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation and providing rebound when pressed. Lastly, the stepped feature of the switch adds some pre-travel and/or post-travel, which differentiates it from hypertactile switches.

In contrast, the Sunset Yellow switch is often described as creamy, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience. It feels like gliding your fingers across the keys with ease, as they effortlessly melt into each keystroke. The switch is also frictionless, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction when pressing the keys, resulting in a fluid travel. Moreover, the switch is polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that reduces friction and provides a sleek typing experience.

Considering all the available information, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch and the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you are seeking a tactile switch with medium-high tactility and a clacky, high-pitched sound profile, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is a great choice. It provides a sharp and crisp tactile bump, with a snappy and bouncy feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and buttery typing experience with a bassy, thocky sound profile, the Sunset Yellow switch is ideal. It offers a creamy sensation with a frictionless and polished feel. While their subjective qualities differ, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are seeking a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility and enjoy a crisp, bright, and percussive sound, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is the ideal choice for you. These switches provide deep, resonating thocks when typing and offer a sharp, snappy feel with strong feedback intensity. On the other hand, if you prefer a captivating sound profile resembling the rich, bassy sound of mahjong tiles colliding and a switch that glides effortlessly with a smooth and refined finish, then the Sunset Yellow is the perfect option. With its medium weight, unique POM stem, and proprietary factory lube method, these switches deliver a distinctive gliding feel and a highly responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Sunset Yellow switches depends on your preference for tactility, sound, and overall typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring Tactile

$4.50

$3.57 per 10

Learn more

Everglide Sunset Yellow Linear

$3.09 per 10

Learn more