Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, it's clear that they offer distinct features tailored to different preferences. The Shadow switch excels in providing a medium-high level of tactility with a long, two-staged spring, offering deep thocks and a range of characteristics like 'Clacky', 'Sharp', and 'Snappy'. On the other hand, the HMX Swift stands out for its smoother typing experience, featuring a deep sound profile and a light 42g actuation force. While the Shadow switch focuses on tactility and a distinctive feel, the Swift switch prioritizes smoothness and a quieter typing experience. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
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 extended spring
Housing materials
Overall, both the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the HMX Swift have unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's polycarbonate top and bottom housings create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic material. In contrast, the nylon top and bottom housings of the HMX Swift produce a deeper and fuller sound profile as the softer plastic absorbs more sound. This results in a more rounded and duller sound compared to the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring.
Additionally, the choice of housing material in switches can impact the overall aesthetics and functionality of the keyboard. The polycarbonate housings of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring allow for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the visual appeal of the keyboard. On the other hand, the nylon housings of the HMX Swift may not offer the same level of transparency for RGB lighting but contribute to a more tactile typing experience with a deeper sound profile. It ultimately comes down to personal preference whether one values the visual appeal or the tactile feel of the keyboard.
While the housing materials of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the HMX Swift differ in terms of stiffness and sound profile, they both provide unique typing experiences. The split qualities of the top and bottom housings in each switch allow for a balance between the impact of pressing down and releasing a key. Whether you prefer a sharper and clearer sound profile with polycarbonate housing or a deeper and fuller sound with nylon housing, both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences in typing sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has a medium actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, providing a balanced tactile response. In contrast, the HMX Swift offers a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch. The lighter actuation force of the Swift allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue, while the heavier bottom out force of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring may appeal to users seeking a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Swift linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.9 mm. In this case, the Swift switch is the shorter option, making it potentially more appealing to those looking for a quicker response time, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Shadow switch offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more satisfying keypress feel for those who prefer a deeper keystroke. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, so users can expect similar results in terms of usability and overall typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Swift has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Swift for $2.99.
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, both the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the HMX Swift switches are described as producing a clacky sound when pressed. The Shadow switch, however, is noted for also having a high-pitched sound quality, while the Swift switch stands out for its deeper sound profile thanks to its full nylon housings. Depending on your preference for sound, the Shadow switch may be preferable for those who enjoy a bright and crisp sound, while the Swift switch may appeal to those looking for a deeper and smoother typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offers a sharp, accented, snappy, and bouncy typing experience, with a stepped tactile feel that provides a distinct bump with each keypress. On the other hand, the HMX Swift switch provides an easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, and creamy typing experience, with a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue and offers a smooth and buttery sensation. Depending on your preference for tactile feedback and keypress responsiveness, the Shadow switch may be better suited for those who prefer a more intense tactile feedback, while the Swift switch may be preferred for its light and comfortable typing experience.
Overall, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch and the HMX Swift switch offer distinct qualities in terms of both sound and feel. The Shadow switch provides a medium-high level of tactility with deep thocks and a high-pitched sound, while the Swift switch offers a silky smooth typing experience with a deep sound profile and low actuation force. Depending on your personal preferences for sound, tactile feedback, and typing comfort, you can expect different results with each switch. However, if you enjoy a clacky sound profile, both switches offer similar characteristics in this aspect.
Conclusion
In closing, when selecting between the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a medium-high level of tactility, deep thock sound profile, and sharp, snappy feel with a 63g bottom out force, then the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter 50g bottom out force, a silky smooth typing experience, and a gentle, low-impact feel with a deeper sound profile, the HMX Swift linear switch would be more suitable for you. Consider your typing needs and preferences to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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