Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring vs. Wuque Studio WS Dash
An in-depth look at the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Wuque Studio WS Dash switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can significantly impact your typing experience, and two standout options are the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Wuque Studio WS Dash. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, a tactile switch, is celebrated for its medium-high level of tactility, creating a satisfying feedback that enhances typing accuracy. The long, two-staged spring contributes to a unique auditory experience, producing deep, resonating thocks that many enthusiasts adore. In contrast, the WS Dash switch utilizes Hall Effect technology to deliver an exceptionally smooth keystroke, complemented by a bright and clacky sound profile that resonates with those who appreciate a more refined touch. While the Shadow switch focuses on tactile responsiveness and rich acoustics, the WS Dash prioritizes fluidity and a crisp auditory feedback. Both switches cater to distinct preferences, making the choice between them highly personal. 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
30g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Wuque Studio WS Dash, we find that they both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, which creates a similar aural experience. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This characteristic is beneficial for users who prefer a brighter auditory feedback from their switches, particularly when using RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows for vibrant illumination effects. Thus, both switches, with their polycarbonate tops, promise a clear and resonant sound that appeals to those who appreciate a lively typing experience.
However, the materials diverge significantly when we examine the bottom housing of each switch. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring employs a polycarbonate bottom housing, which continues the bright sound profile established by its top housing. This consistency means that the overall auditory feedback remains sharp and crisp throughout the entire key press. In contrast, the WS Dash utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which is a classic material known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder auditory experience that contrasts sharply with the brightness of the polycarbonate. This fundamental difference will affect how each switch feels and sounds during use, particularly during the bottoming out of the key press.
In summary, while both the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Wuque Studio WS Dash share a similar polycarbonate top housing that contributes to a sharp and resonant sound, they diverge in their bottom housing materials. The Shadow maintains a uniform sound profile due to its polycarbonate composition, while the WS Dash offers a more complex sound with its nylon bottom that softens the auditory feedback. This juxtaposition between the two models means that users can expect distinct sound profiles and physical responses: a brighter, crisper experience from the Shadow and a deeper, fuller listening ambiance from the WS Dash. When selecting between these two switches, considerations of both sound profile and tactile feedback will play a notable role in user preference.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch, we see distinct differences that cater to varied user preferences. The Aflion Shadow (Ink) features a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, along with a bottom out force of 63 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience that some users may prefer for its tactile feedback. In contrast, the WS Dash has a lighter actuation force of 30 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, which caters to those who favor a lighter switch for prolonged typing sessions or gaming. As a result, users looking for a heavier, more resistant switch should choose the Aflion Shadow, while those preferring a lighter touch might find the WS Dash more suitable. Overall, the varying force specifications highlight the differing experiences each switch offers, ensuring users can select based on their individual typing or gaming needs.
Travel distance
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference of 0.5 mm suggests that the Shadow switch provides a more substantial keystroke, which many typists might prefer for a deeper, more satisfying feel. In contrast, the WS Dash's shorter travel distance aligns well with the trend favoring responsiveness, making it a suitable choice for gamers who prioritize quick actuation and rapid response times. Ultimately, if you're in search of a switch that offers a hearty depth, the Aflion Shadow is the better option, whereas those seeking a swift keystroke may gravitate towards the more sensitive WS Dash.
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 Dash has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Dash for $7.49.
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
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch produces a distinctive auditory experience characterized by deep, resonating thocks that resonate upon keystroke. This sound signature is further complemented by a clacky and high-pitched quality that offers a crisp and percussive feedback, making it particularly engaging for typists who enjoy pronounced audio cues during their sessions. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Dash switch is known for its bright and clacky sound profile, inviting a different but equally enticing auditory experience. Both switches offer a lively soundscape that can vary based on the keyboard and keycap choices, ensuring that users will experience a unique acoustic character from each option.
When it comes to feel, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring stands out with its medium-high tactility, providing a sharp and pronounced tactile bump that is hard to miss with each keypress. The switch's dual-staged spring contributes to a snappy and responsive typing experience, characterized by its bouncy and lively feedback that keeps users engaged during long typing sessions. The tactile sensation is accentuated and distinctly felt, creating a balance that makes it a favorite among tactile switch enthusiasts. The specific tactile qualities of the WS Dash are not detailed, making it challenging to draw direct comparisons. However, the overall smooth keystroke promoted by its hall effect technology suggests a user experience that emphasizes fluidity and precision.
In summary, both the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Wuque Studio WS Dash switches offer unique experiences with their respective sound and feel characteristics. The Shadow switch is celebrated for its deep thock and sharp tactile feedback, ideal for those who appreciate pronounced mechanical responses. Meanwhile, the WS Dash offers a bright sound signature paired with a silky smooth keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference regarding sound profile and tactile feedback, as each provides a distinct yet enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and the typing experience you seek. If you are in search of a tactile switch that delivers a pronounced tactile feedback with a medium-high level of tactility, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is an excellent choice. Its deeper, resonating thocks create an engaging auditory experience, enhanced by the sharp, snappy feel of its two-staged spring action. This switch can be particularly satisfying for typists who appreciate a tactile punch as they type and who enjoy the lively responsiveness it provides. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force with a smoother and quieter keystroke, the WS Dash should be your go-to. This switch offers a refined sound profile that is bright and clacky, with hall effect technology that guarantees a whisper-soft experience on each keypress. It's ideal for those who value a minimalist typing ambiance or who enjoy a more fluid typing motion without the pronounced tactile bump. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you prioritize a tactile and pronounced feel reminiscent of classic mechanical switches or a smooth, modern, and quiet experience that still retains an element of auditory delight.
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