Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare and contrast are the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, a tactile switch, and the Aflion Windy Shadow, a linear switch. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring stands out for its medium-high level of tactility, making it a great choice for those seeking a tactile typing experience. With a long, two-staged spring, users can expect deep, resonating thocks while typing on these switches. Categorized as ‘Clacky’, ‘High-pitched’, ‘Sharp’, ‘Accented’, ‘Snappy’, ‘Bouncy’, and ‘Stepped’, this switch offers a unique typing feel. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow linear switch from Aflion is known for its neutral sound profile and distinctive bounce from the extended spring. With a bottom-out force of 55g, these switches provide a comfortably medium-light typing experience. Categorized as ‘Low-pitched’, ‘Mild’, and ‘Neutral’, the Windy Shadow offers a smoother, more consistent keystroke. Both switches have their own benefits and drawbacks, providing users with different typing experiences. 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
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
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
19.7mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Aflion Windy Shadow both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow has a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound.
While both the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and Windy Shadow feature polycarbonate top housings, they differ in their bottom housing material. The split in housing materials affects the overall sound and feel of the switches. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring contributes to the bottom-out sound and feel, while the nylon bottom housing of the Windy Shadow creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. This split in housing materials allows for a unique experience when typing on each switch, with the qualities of each material being noticeable in different aspects of key press.
In terms of sound profiles, the polycarbonate top housing of both the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and Windy Shadow results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. However, the differences in the bottom housing material lead to variations in the depth and fullness of the sound produced by each switch. While the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offers a more clear and resonant sound overall, the Windy Shadow provides a rounder and duller sound due to its nylon bottom housing. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch features an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, providing a medium resistance for typing. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch has an unknown actuation force but a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it a medium-light option. In terms of weight, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is heavier due to its higher bottom out force, while the Windy Shadow is lighter. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Windy Shadow for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may prefer the heavier bottom out force of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, but ultimately provide a satisfying typing experience.
Travel distance
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offers a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Windy Shadow linear switch. The difference of 0.5 mm may seem minor, but it can affect the overall feel and response of the switch. Those who prefer a deeper, more substantial press when typing or gaming may lean towards the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, while individuals looking for a quicker, more responsive feel may opt for the Windy Shadow linear switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
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 Aflion Windy Shadow has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Windy Shadow for $3.91.
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 tactile switch is known for producing a clacky and high-pitched sound, which gives it a sharp and snappy feel with each keypress. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, creating a more bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for a wide range of users. Depending on your preference, you can choose between the sharp and bright sound of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring or the more moderate and balanced sound of the Windy Shadow.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch is described as sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped, providing a strong and crisp tactile bump with a lively and responsive typing experience. Conversely, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch offers a more mild typing experience, with a gentle feel that falls into a safe middle ground for most users. If you prefer a switch with more pronounced tactility and feedback, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring would be the ideal choice, while the Windy Shadow would be better suited for those who prefer a softer and more approachable typing experience.
Considering the available information, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Shadow (Ink) switch provides a sharp and clacky sound with a strong tactile bump, while the Windy Shadow switch offers a more neutral and mellow sound with a gentler typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch with a medium-high level of tactility and a deep, resonating sound profile, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a neutral sound profile and a comfortable medium-light bottom-out force, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize tactility and sound or prefer a smoother typing experience with a neutral sound profile. Remember to consider your personal preferences and typing habits when choosing between these two switches.
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