Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring vs. HMX Twilight
An in-depth look at the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the HMX Twilight switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often face the challenging decision between tactile and linear options, with the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the HMX Twilight standing out as two compelling choices. The Shadow switch is ideal for those who appreciate a pronounced tactile response, featuring a medium-high level of tactility complemented by deep, resonating "thocks" that provide an engaging typing experience. Its long, two-staged spring enhances the tactile feedback while delivering a unique sound profile characterized by clacky, high-pitched, and snappy notes. On the other hand, the HMX Twilight linear switch caters to those who prefer a smoother keystroke, boasting an extended 3.85mm travel distance that leads to quieter operation without sacrificing the clackiness that HMX switches are known for. Both switches offer distinct advantages depending on your typing preferences—whether it’s the satisfying tactile experience of the Shadow or the fluidity and subtlety of the Twilight. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal 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
3.85 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
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the HMX Twilight, a distinct contrast emerges between their top housings. The Shadow (Ink) features a polycarbonate top housing, known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. This not only contributes to a clearer resonance but also enhances the visual appeal when RGB lighting is utilized, thanks to its translucency. In contrast, the Twilight utilizes a nylon top housing, which is recognized for offering a deeper, fuller sound profile. The softer material of the nylon contributes to a rounder and duller auditory experience, absorbing more sound and providing a balanced acoustic environment. Thus, while both switches serve their respective sound qualities, the materials lead to fundamentally different auditory experiences.
The differences are equally pronounced in the bottom housings of these switches, with the Shadow (Ink) maintaining a polycarbonate composition and the Twilight opting for nylon. Similar to its top counterpart, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) reinforces the switch's characteristic of producing a clear and resonant sound profile, making it ideal for users who appreciate sharper auditory feedback during their typing experience. Conversely, the nylon bottom housing in the Twilight complements its top housing by enhancing the deeper sound, which adds a level of warmth to the switch's overall feel. In this scenario, the bottom housing contributes significantly to the bottom-out sound and tactile feedback, setting the two switches apart in terms of performance.
Ultimately, the combination of top and bottom housing materials in each switch creates a unique sound signature. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, with its fully polycarbonate construct, provides a cohesive, brighter sound profile that appeals to users seeking clarity and sharpness. Meanwhile, the HMX Twilight, with its nylon top and bottom housings, delivers a rounded and warm typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a more subdued auditory feedback. While the materials differ and thus result in distinct auditory characteristics, both switches can achieve satisfaction depending on the user's preference for sound profiles—whether it be the crisp clarity of polycarbonate or the enveloping warmth of nylon.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch, significant differences emerge in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring requires a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, while the Twilight is lighter, needing only 42 grams to trigger a keystroke. This difference suggests that the Aflion switch may be better suited for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience, as it provides a stronger push feel, whereas the HMX Twilight, with its lighter feel, may be ideal for long typing sessions or gaming, allowing users to type with less effort. Additionally, upon bottoming out, the Shadow switch reaches a force of 63 grams compared to the Twilight's 50 grams, further reinforcing the Shadow's heavier weight. Ultimately, those seeking a more tactile and weighty switch would gravitate towards the Shadow (Ink), while those favoring comfort and prolonged usage might find the Twilight more appealing.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch, a notable difference emerges. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring features a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns with the traditional standards for key switches, offering a more profound and hearty feel when pressed. In contrast, the HMX Twilight has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.85 mm. While both switches may appeal to different preferences, the Twilight's reduced distance means it might provide a quicker response time, catering more to gamers who favor speed over depth. Ultimately, if you prioritize a deeper keystroke for a more tactile experience, the Shadow (Ink) would be the preferable choice, while the Twilight could be ideal for those who enjoy a more immediate and responsive 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 Twilight has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Twilight 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 comparing the sound of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch, the Shadow is characterized by deep, resonant thocks that resonate uniquely during typing. These thocks can be categorized as clacky and high-pitched, delivering a sharp and snappy sound on each keypress that is bright and percussive. In contrast, the Twilight switch is noted for having a quieter operation due to its extended travel distance of 3.85mm, yet it maintains some clacky characteristics typical of linear switches, albeit with a subtler acoustic profile. Notably, both switches’ sonorous qualities can also be influenced by the choice of keyboard board and keycaps, making them adaptable.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring provides a unique typing experience as it combines a medium-high level of tactility with a series of attributes like sharpness, accenting, and bounciness. Users can expect a distinctly felt tactile bump, enhanced responsiveness, and a springy rebound effect that contributes to a lively typing sensation. The texture of the keypress is neither overwhelming nor too subtle, making it suitable for various typing styles. On the other hand, information about the feel of the HMX Twilight linear switch is unknown, leaving a gap for comparison in this aspect. However, since it is linear, it likely does not provide the tactile feedback that the Shadow does.
In conclusion, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch stands out for its engaging sound profile and its vibrant, tactile feel, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer pronounced feedback during their typing experience. The HMX Twilight linear switch, with its quieter sound and potentially softer touch, appeals to those who might favor a smoother and less tactile feedback. While the two switches cater to different preferences, the variability in sound and feel underscores the diversity available within mechanical keyboard switches. Overall, selecting between the two will ultimately depend on whether one prioritizes tactile responsiveness and an engaging sound or a more subdued auditory experience with a fluid keystroke.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch hinges on your personal preferences for mechanical feedback and sound. If you desire a robust tactile experience with a strong feedback intensity, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is an excellent option. Its medium-high tactility, complemented by the deep thock it produces, provides a satisfying typing feel that can make long typing sessions enjoyable. Moreover, if you appreciate a clacky sound profile that adds character to your keyboard, this switch will deliver that sharp, bright auditory feedback. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, quieter typing experience, the HMX Twilight linear switch may be more to your liking. With its lighter 50-gram bottom out force and extended travel distance, it offers a fluid keystroke, ideal for fast typists and gamers who favor rapid key presses without the distraction of tactile bumps or pronounced sound. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you want the tactile feedback and acoustic character of the Shadow or the seamless action of the Twilight.
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