Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring vs. Gazzew U4Tx
An in-depth look at the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Gazzew U4Tx switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a high-quality tactile mechanical keyboard switch, both the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Gazzew U4Tx are excellent options to consider. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is renowned for its medium-high level of tactility, making it ideal for those who prefer a more responsive typing experience. Additionally, these switches produce deep and resonating "thocks" when pressed, adding to the overall satisfaction of typing. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx switches offer a unique combination of features. They integrate the deep and resonant sound profile of the U4T when bottoming out, with the whisper-quiet stealth of the U4 when topping out. The result is a highly refined and clean typing experience, complete with a sharp and satisfying tactile bump. Both switches offer their own distinct advantages, providing an acoustically pleasing and luxurious 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
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Gazzew U4Tx differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings. As polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, it creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This makes it ideal for those seeking a clear and resonant sound when typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate enables it to work well with RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switch. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx features a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, often referred to as "boba plastic." This unique plastic blend results in a rich and deep sound profile that is characterized by its softness. The U4Tx's top housing is specifically designed to enhance the sound when a key is released, providing a satisfying auditory experience.
While both switches have different housing materials, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Gazzew U4Tx share similarities in terms of their sound profiles. Both switches prioritize delivering a distinct sound experience to the user. The polycarbonate used in the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring provides a sharp and clear sound profile, while the "boba plastic" blend in the U4Tx creates a rich and deep sound. Both materials contribute to a satisfying typing experience by producing unique auditory feedback. So, despite the differences in composition, users can expect similar results in terms of sound quality and the enjoyment derived from the switch.
When it comes to the impact on sound and feel, the difference in housing materials for the top and bottom housings of a switch plays a crucial role. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's polycarbonate bottom housing, being stiffer in nature, influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down. Its stiffness provides a sharper impact and more pronounced feedback upon pressing. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx's proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing, known for its softness, offers a different bottom-out experience, characterized by a more cushioned feel and potentially a quieter sound. Meanwhile, the top housing of each switch affects the sound produced when a key is released, with the polycarbonate of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the "boba plastic" blend of the U4Tx contributing to the distinct sound profile observed during key releases.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. Starting with the actuation force, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring requires 55 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, while the U4Tx's actuation force is unknown. Both switches can provide a medium actuation force, ensuring a satisfying tactile feedback without being too heavy or too light.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring requires 63 grams of force to fully press the keystroke, which again falls into the medium range. On the other hand, the U4Tx has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, making it medium-heavy.
Weight is an important factor to consider, as it can greatly affect the typing experience. Some individuals prefer lighter switches, as they allow for extended typing sessions without causing fatigue. This makes them ideal for professionals who use their keyboards extensively or for gamers who have long gaming sessions. On the contrary, others prefer a stronger push feel, as it provides a more substantial typing experience. These individuals might opt for switches with heavier forces.
In conclusion, while the actuation force of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and U4Tx switches differs, both fall within the medium range. The bottom out force of the U4Tx is slightly heavier, being medium-heavy, compared to the medium bottom out force of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences and whether a lighter or heavier typing experience is desired.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch is 4 mm, while the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the U4Tx. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring falls into the more traditional range of travel distances at 4.0 mm, while the U4Tx is slightly shorter at 3.6 mm.
In terms of preference, gamers often opt for shorter travel distances as they offer faster response times. So, if you are looking for a highly responsive switch, the shorter travel distance of the U4Tx might be more suitable for you. On the other hand, some individuals find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt and prefer switches with a more substantial depth. In this case, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring with its longer travel distance would be a better choice.
Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for travel distance. Both switches offer their own advantages, and choosing the one that suits your specific typing or gaming style will ensure optimal comfort and performance.
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 Gazzew U4Tx comes in at $6.50 per 10 switches.
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 switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile. The sharp and snappy sound it produces when pressed is crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx switch offers a bassy and muted sound experience. The lower frequency range gives it a deeper and richer tone, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Additionally, the switch provides a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps.
When considering the feel of the switches, both the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Gazzew U4Tx switches are described as sharp tactile switches. They are known for their high feedback intensity, with a strong and crisp tactile bump that is prominent and can be felt distinctly with each keypress. This provides a satisfying tactile experience while typing. The Shadow switch is also described as accented, offering a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Additionally, the Shadow switch features a two-staged spring, making the typing experience feel more responsive and snappy. The U4Tx switch, on the other hand, does not have any additional descriptors in terms of feel.
In conclusion, both the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Gazzew U4Tx switches provide a sharp and tactile typing experience. They both feature a sharp tactile bump that is felt distinctly with each keypress. However, they differ in terms of sound, with the Shadow switch offering a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, while the U4Tx switch provides a bassy and muted sound experience. Despite these differences, both switches offer a luxurious typing experience that is acoustically pleasing and tactilely satisfying. Depending on personal preferences and specific requirements, either switch can deliver similar results, ensuring an enjoyable and tactile typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are seeking a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility and deep, resonating thocks when typing, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a cleaner and refined sound profile with a deep, resonant "thock" when bottoming out and a whisper-quiet topping out sound, then the Gazzew U4Tx switch is the ideal option.
In terms of sound, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring produces a clacky and high-pitched sound, which is crisp and bright. On the other hand, the U4Tx offers a bassy and muted sound, characterized by a deeper and richer tone with minimal noise.
When it comes to feel, both switches provide a sharp tactile bump with high feedback intensity. However, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is also described as accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped, offering a range of tactile sensations. On the other hand, the U4Tx is solely described as sharp, providing a distinct tactile feedback with each keypress.
Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Gazzew U4Tx switches depends on your preference for sound and feel. Consider whether you prioritize a medium-high level of tactility with a clacky and high-pitched sound or a cleaner and refined sound profile with a deep and rich tone. Experimenting with both switches can help you determine which one offers a more luxurious and acoustically pleasing typing experience for you.
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