Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Jwick Taro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Jwick Taro are both tactile switches that offer unique and appealing features. If you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is the perfect choice. Its long, two-staged spring provides a satisfying tactile feedback that enhances your typing experience. Additionally, the Shadow switches are known for their deep and resonating thocks, adding an extra level of auditory satisfaction. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subdued and cozy typing experience, the Jwick Taro is an excellent option. These switches offer a snappy medium-level of tactility, accompanied by acute and crisp clacks. The Taro switches are also categorized as neutral and buttery, providing a smooth and comfortable 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and Jwick Taro both utilize polycarbonate as their top housing material. This material creates a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile in both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects. Therefore, if you are looking for a switch that provides a clear and resonant sound and plan to incorporate RGB lighting, both the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and Taro switches would yield similar results.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the two switches differ. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring features a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the Taro utilizes nylon. This discrepancy in materials leads to variations in the sound profile. The polycarbonate bottom housing in the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring contributes to a sharper and crisper bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing in the Taro produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its ability to absorb more sound.
In terms of typing experience, the bottom housing plays a more significant role in both switches. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, resulting in a more pronounced effect while pressing down on the keys. Meanwhile, the Taro's nylon bottom housing contributes to a softer and more rounded sound, creating a distinct typing experience. On the other hand, the top housing material has more influence on the sound when releasing a key, providing a satisfying auditory feedback in both switches.
Ultimately, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and Jwick Taro may share similar characteristics in their polycarbonate top housing, their differing bottom housing materials result in contrasting sound profiles and typing experiences. Whether you prefer the sharp and clear sound of polycarbonate or the deeper and more absorbent sound of nylon, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to varying sound preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has an actuation force of 55 grams, which is the force required to trigger a keystroke, and a bottom out force of 63 grams, indicating the force needed to press the switch all the way down. On the other hand, the Taro's actuation force is not listed, making it unknown, but it does have a bottom out force of 67 grams, which falls into the medium-heavy category. Therefore, in terms of actuation force, it is hard to directly compare the two switches. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Taro is slightly heavier than the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring.
Considering the weight of the switches, some users prefer a lighter option, like the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, as it allows for longer typing periods and is suitable for work or extended gaming sessions. On the contrary, others prefer a heavier push feel for a more substantial typing experience, and for them, the Taro with its medium-heavy bottom out force may be a better choice. It is important to note that while the actuation force of the Taro is unknown, it is expected to provide a similar experience to the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, unless the actuation force of the Taro significantly deviates from the medium range. Ultimately, personal preference and typing style will play a significant role in determining which switch is more suitable for an individual's needs.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Taro has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. This means that the Taro has a shallower press compared to the traditional 4 mm travel distance of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring. If you prefer a faster response time and a more responsive feel when pressing down on a key, the Taro with its shorter travel distance would be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper and more substantial press, then the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring with its longer travel distance would be the ideal choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience. However, it is important to note that both switches provide a tactile feel and will offer similar results 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 Jwick Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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 is known for its clacky and high-pitched profile. These switches produce a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, with a crisp and bright tone. On the other hand, the Taro switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. It falls in the moderate range, suitable for various purposes and preferences. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch is influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen, so individual experiences may vary. Overall, if you prefer a sharper and more percussive sound, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch would be a better choice, while the Taro switch offers a more neutral and moderate sound.
In terms of feel, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offers a range of qualities. It is described as sharp, accentuated, snappy, bouncy, and stepped. These tactile switches have a high feedback intensity with a distinct and prominent tactile bump. The typing experience feels lively and responsive due to the longer or dual-staged springs. On the other hand, the Taro switch has a buttery and stepped feel. It offers a smooth and fluid keystroke, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Similar to the sound, individual preferences in terms of switch feel can vary. If you enjoy a more intense and pronounced tactile feedback, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is a suitable option. For those seeking a smoother and uniform typing experience, the Taro switch would be a better fit.
Considering all available information, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch and the Taro switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Shadow switch provides a clacky and high-pitched sound profile along with a sharp and accentuated feel. On the other hand, the Taro switch presents a neutral sound profile with a buttery and stepped feel. Both switches cater to different preferences, ensuring there is an option that suits various typing styles and preferences. If you prefer a snappy and sharp typing experience, combined with a bright and crisp sound, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is an excellent choice. Alternatively, if you seek a smooth and effortless keystroke feel, accompanied by a moderate and versatile sound profile, the Taro switch is a great option. Overall, these switches offer a range of subjective qualities that can enhance the typing experience based on individual preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are seeking a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility and a deep resonating sound, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is the perfect choice for you. It provides a sharp and snappy clacky sound, which can be described as crisp and percussive. The Shadow switch variant is known for its sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped feel, offering a high feedback intensity and a distinct tactile bump with each keypress.
On the other hand, if you prefer a cozy typing experience with a medium level of tactility and a neutral sound profile, the Jwick Taro switch is an excellent option. It offers a snappy and crisp clack sound, suitable for most intents and purposes. The Taro switch provides a buttery and stepped feel, delivering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience and a mild tactility with some pre-travel and/or post-travel sensation.
Ultimately, the decision between the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch and the Jwick Taro switch depends on your preferences for sound and feel. If you prioritize a sharper, clacky sound and a more intense tactile feedback, the Shadow switch is the right choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a crisper clack sound and a smoother keystroke, the Taro switch is a better fit. Consider your personal preferences and typing style to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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