Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring vs. Gazzew U4Tx RGB

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can significantly impact your typing experience, and two popular tactile options to consider are the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB. The Shadow switch is celebrated for its medium-high level of tactility, featuring a unique long, two-staged spring that produces deep, resonating "thocks," which many users find satisfying. Its character is marked by descriptors such as "clacky" and "snappy," making it ideal for those who enjoy a lively typing sensation. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB offers a more refined auditory experience, combining the deep thock of the U4T bottom out with the stealthy quiet of the U4 top, all while providing a pronounced tactile bump. This switch is perfect for users seeking a luxurious typing feel without excessive noise, making it suitable for both work and play environments. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches hinges on personal preference regarding sound and tactility; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that's right for you.

By the numbers

Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring Tactile

Gazzew U4Tx RGB Tactile

$4.50

$3.57 per 10

$6.50 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB, distinct differences emerge that significantly affect their acoustic performances and tactile experiences. The Shadow (Ink) features a polycarbonate top housing that is recognized for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, which contributes to a clear and resonant auditory output. Conversely, the U4Tx RGB employs a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, sometimes referred to as "boba plastic," known for its softness. While both housings are transparent and compatible with RGB lighting, the Gazzew blend's inherent characteristics lend a warmer tone to the sound profile, creating an overall difference in auditory feedback.

The bottom housings of the two switches further highlight contrasting features that influence their sound and feel. Like its top counterpart, the Shadow (Ink) utilizes polycarbonate for its bottom housing, which supports the same properties of producing a crisp and resonant sound. On the contrary, the U4Tx RGB's bottom housing incorporates the softer Gazzew blend, enhancing the richness and depth of sound during key presses. This brings a distinctive auditory texture to the U4Tx, making it feel more muted in comparison to the sharper tones of the Shadow (Ink). Therefore, the bottom-out sound profile will feel noticeably different between these switches due to the very nature of their materials.

Ultimately, while the fundamental materials differ between the two switches, users can achieve varying results in both sound profiles and tactile experiences based on these differences. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring provides a more piercing audio experience with a clearer response when keys are released due to its predominance of polycarbonate, while the U4Tx RGB offers depth and richness through its proprietary blend. If a user preferred a blend of both sound profiles, combining the top polycarbonate housing of the Shadow (Ink) with the softer Gazzew blend bottom could create a switch that balances sharpness and warmth, tailoring the experience to personal preferences in auditory feedback and key feel.

Weight

When comparing the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch, we find distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces that cater to varying user preferences. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring features an actuation force of 55 grams, requiring a moderate amount of force to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force is slightly higher at 63 grams. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB lacks a specified actuation force but has a bottom out force of 65 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. This lack of an actuation force for the U4Tx may imply a design variation or is simply unknown. Users who favor a lighter switch will appreciate the 55-gram actuation force of the Shadow (Ink), as it allows for easier and more prolonged typing or gaming sessions. Conversely, those seeking a more substantial typing experience may gravitate towards the Gazzew U4Tx RGB, given its heavier bottom out force of 65 grams. Overall, while both switches are in the medium to medium-heavy range, the Shadow (Ink) is lighter in terms of actuation force, making it more suitable for extended use, whereas the U4Tx provides a heavier feedback response.

Travel distance

The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch differ in their travel distances, with the Shadow (Ink) measuring 4 mm and the U4Tx RGB at 3.6 mm. This means that the Shadow (Ink) offers a longer travel distance, providing a more substantial and deeper feeling when pressed. On the other hand, the U4Tx RGB, with its shorter travel distance, can enhance responsiveness, which is often preferred by gamers seeking quicker actuation. While both switches cater to different preferences, if you favor a more robust tactile experience, the Shadow (Ink) is the preferable choice, whereas the U4Tx RGB might be ideal for those who favor rapid key presses without the need for extensive travel. Thus, the Shadow (Ink) stands out for a hearty depth, while the U4Tx RGB excels in its snappy response due to its shorter travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound profiles of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches, both offer distinct auditory experiences. The Shadow switch provides a deep and resonating thock, characterized by clacky and high-pitched sounds, delivering a crisp and bright auditory feedback that is percussive in nature. This makes it a delight for those who appreciate a more pronounced acoustics during typing. On the other hand, while the U4Tx RGB also features the deep thock of U4T’s bottoming out, its overall sound profile is refined and quiet, intricately blending the noisy and peaceful aspects of each keystroke. Thus, while both switches provide a degree of thock, the Shadow's sound is more pronounced and resonant compared to the U4Tx’s more subdued but polished acoustics.

In terms of feel, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring excels by offering a multi-faceted tactile experience. It is known for its sharp tactile bump that provides strong feedback, making each keypress highly responsive. The switch is accented, providing a medium tactile level that is noticeable without being overbearing, with additional characteristics like snappiness and bounce, enhancing the overall typing experience. The stepped nature of the switch adds dimensionality, enabling a mild pre-travel sensation. Meanwhile, the feel of the U4Tx RGB switches remains comparatively unclear, leaving potential users without information about the tactile feedback they might expect. Thus, if you prefer a tactile switch that delivers clear, strong sensations with every press, the Shadow switch is the more defined option.

In conclusion, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is a robust choice for those who prioritize sharp tactile feedback and vivid sound, as its features are well-documented and designed to elevate the typing experience. In contrast, while the Gazzew U4Tx RGB may appeal to those who seek a quieter and refined sound, its tactile feedback qualities remain less defined. Overall, if auditory and tactile sensations are at the forefront of your keyboard switch preferences, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring provides a more fulfilling experience, whereas the U4Tx RGB may require further investigation for users seeking clarity on its tactile feel.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing between the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal typing preferences and desired experience. If you appreciate a switch that offers a medium-high level of tactility paired with a pronounced auditory signature, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is your best bet. Its combination of a sharp tactile bump and a deep, resonating sound provides an engaging typing experience, making it ideal for those who enjoy a dynamic feel and a lively auditory feedback. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier key feel with a refined sound profile, the U4Tx RGB would be more suitable. This switch boasts a luxurious tactile experience with a sharp bump and a quieter sound, ideal for environments where noise is a concern or for users who appreciate a more understated auditory experience. Ultimately, consider what aspects—whether it's sound, tactility, or feedback sensitivity—are most important to you, and select the switch that aligns with your typing style and environment.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring Tactile

$4.50

$3.57 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4Tx RGB Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more