Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring vs. Wuque Studio WS Brown
An in-depth look at the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Wuque Studio WS Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you are in the market for a new mechanical keyboard switch, you may be considering the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring or the Wuque Studio WS Brown. The Shadow switch is a tactile switch that offers a medium-high level of tactility, thanks to its long, two-staged spring. Typing on these switches provides a deep and resonating thock sound that many users appreciate. On the other hand, the WS Brown switch strikes a harmonious balance between responsiveness and comfort, with a medium-light actuation force. It offers a familiar and delightful auditory experience, thanks to its nylon housing and POM stem combination. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities to help you decide on the best switch for your needs.
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
3.80 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
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
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, creating a more clear and resonant sound. In addition to its functional benefits, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting effects to be displayed, enhancing the switch's aesthetic appeal. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Brown features a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, the choice between these two materials depends on whether one prefers a sharper, more pronounced sound (polycarbonate) or a deeper, mellower sound (nylon).
In terms of their bottom housings, both the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the WS Brown differ in their respective material choices. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, similar to its top housing. As with the top housing, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for compatibility with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the WS Brown results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a different typing experience compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing. The material properties of nylon, being softer and more sound-absorbent, lead to a more muffled and rounded sound.
When using switches with different top and bottom housings, the qualities brought by each housing material are divided between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. Conversely, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when a key is released. Therefore, depending on individual preferences for the sound and feel of a switch, the divergence in material choices between the top and bottom housings can greatly influence the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has an actuation force of 55 grams, which means that it requires a moderate amount of force to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the actuation force of the Wuque Studio WS Brown switch is unavailable, so it is difficult to determine how it compares in this aspect.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has a bottom out force of 63 grams, which is slightly heavier than its actuation force. This means that typing on this switch will have a more substantial feel when pressing all the way down. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Brown switch has a bottom out force of 55 grams, which is considered medium-light.
Considering weight as a factor, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is slightly heavier than the Wuque Studio WS Brown switch in terms of both actuation and bottom out force. This makes it suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience. However, if a lighter switch is desired, the Wuque Studio WS Brown switch provides a medium-light bottom out force.
In summary, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is heavier in terms of both actuation and bottom out force compared to the Wuque Studio WS Brown switch. However, without the information on the actuation force of the latter, it is difficult to make a direct comparison. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on individual preferences for typing experiences and desired force levels.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch, it is clear that the Shadow (Ink) has a slightly longer travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the WS Brown has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Shadow (Ink) being more standard and the WS Brown offering a slightly shallower experience.
For gamers seeking quicker response times, the WS Brown may be a preferred choice due to its shorter travel distance. This allows for faster keystrokes and improved reaction times during gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more satisfying depth to their keystrokes may opt for the Shadow (Ink) with its longer travel distance. The added distance can provide a sense of solidity and assurance when typing or gaming.
Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preferences. If a shorter travel distance is preferred for increased responsiveness, the WS Brown is the way to go. However, if a more substantial and deliberate feel is desired, the Shadow (Ink) offering a longer travel distance would be the better option.
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 Wuque Studio WS Brown comes in at $3.50 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
In terms of sound, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched characteristics. When pressed, these switches produce a sharp, snappy, and crisp sound that is bright and percussive. On the other hand, the WS Brown tactile switch does not have any specified sound characteristics mentioned. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch offers a range of tactile sensations. It is described as sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped. These switches have a high feedback intensity with a distinct and prominent tactile bump that can be felt with each keypress. The longer or dual-staged springs in these switches contribute to a more responsive and lively typing experience. In contrast, there is no specific description given for the feel of the WS Brown tactile switch.
In conclusion, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch is known for its medium-high level of tactility with a deep, resonating sound and a range of tactile sensations including sharpness, accent, snappiness, bounciness, and a stepped feel. On the other hand, the WS Brown tactile switch is described as offering a harmonious balance between responsiveness and comfort, but specific details about its sound and feel are not provided. While the WS Brown switch may provide a familiar and delightful auditory experience due to its nylon housing and POM stem combination, it is worth considering the aspects of sound and feel that are important to you as an individual buyer.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are seeking a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility and enjoy a deep, resonating thock sound while typing, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch would be a great choice. These switches offer a sharp, accented feel with a snappy and bouncy feedback sensation. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light actuation force and value a harmonious balance between responsiveness and comfort, the Wuque Studio WS Brown switch would be a suitable option. These switches provide a familiar and delightful auditory experience with their nylon housing and POM stem combination. Although the sound profile of the WS Brown switch is not explicitly mentioned, it can be inferred that they offer a pleasant typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on your preference for tactility, sound, and typing feel. With the provided information, you can make an informed choice that best suits your typing style and preferences.
Mentioned in this article
