Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring vs. Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile
An in-depth look at the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, there are a multitude of options available, each with its own unique characteristics and benefits. Two switches that stand out amongst the rest are the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile. The Shadow Double Spring switch offers a medium-high level of tactility, making it ideal for those who prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback. Typing on these switches yields deep and resonating thocks, creating a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switch from Wuque Studio is a remarkable addition to their esteemed WS series. With a tactile force of 70g, these switches provide a satisfying resistance with each keystroke, keeping you engaged and immersed in your typing journey. Additionally, the nylon housings of these switches contribute to a "thocky" resonance, offering a pleasing auditory feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities, so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile play a significant role in shaping their sound profiles. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which allows for a more resonant and clear sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it perfect for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon, known for being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile.
In terms of the bottom housing, both switches follow a similar approach, utilizing polycarbonate for the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and nylon for the WS Heavy Tactile. The properties of polycarbonate enhance the sharper and crisper sound profile for the bottom-out sound and feel of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring. Likewise, the nylon bottom housing of the WS Heavy Tactile contributes to its deeper and fuller sound profile. The impact of the bottom housing becomes more prominent when pressing down a key.
However, the difference lies in the impact of the top housing on key release. With the polycarbonate top housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, the sound produced when letting go of a key will have a sharper and higher-pitched quality. Conversely, the nylon top housing of the WS Heavy Tactile ensures a rounder and duller sound upon key release.
Overall, while both switches share a similar construction with their top and bottom housings utilizing different materials, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring leans towards a crisper and higher-pitched sound profile due to its polycarbonate housing, while the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile produces a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon housing.
Weight
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch have distinct differences in terms of their actuation force and bottom out force. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has a medium actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams. In contrast, the exact actuation force of the WS Heavy Tactile is unknown, but it has a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams.
This variation in force profiles offers different typing experiences for users. Those who prefer a lighter switch may opt for the WS Heavy Tactile, as its lower bottom out force allows for quick and effortless keystrokes. This lighter force can be beneficial for extended typing sessions, enabling users to type for longer periods comfortably. Moreover, gamers may find the lighter force advantageous during intense gaming sessions as it helps reduce fatigue.
On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial and satisfying typing experience may find the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring more suitable. With its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces, this switch offers a stronger push feel, resulting in a more tactile and pronounced keystroke feedback. This can enhance typing accuracy and provide a satisfying tactile experience for those who prefer a more substantial switch.
Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on individual preferences and desired typing experiences. The lighter WS Heavy Tactile offers a swift and effortless typing experience, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring provides a stronger and more tactile feel. By carefully considering the actuation and bottom out forces, users can select the switch that aligns best with their typing style and preferences.
Travel distance
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch has a travel distance of 4.0mm, which is a more traditional travel distance. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.2mm. Gamers tend to prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. If you prioritize a more responsive typing experience, the WS Heavy Tactile would be the better choice. However, for those who prefer a deeper keystroke, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring would be the preferable option. Both switches offer different levels of travel distances, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences.
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 Heavy Tactile 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
When it comes to sound, both the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches share similar qualities. They both fall under the descriptor of "clacky," producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. The sound profile of these switches can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. However, the WS Heavy Tactile switches offer an additional characteristic with their nylon housings, contributing to a "thocky" resonance. This allows for a satisfying auditory feedback with each keystroke, creating a more immersive typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offers a sharp and accented tactile experience. The switch has a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be felt distinctly with each keypress. It also has a snappy and responsive feel, thanks to its long, two-staged spring. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switch provides an accented tactile experience that is not overwhelming nor subtle. It offers a prominent amount of tactility with a bouncy sensation, giving the keys a spring-like and elastic feedback. These switches are known for their invigorating and sharp tactile bump, providing a satisfying and reactive typing sensation.
In conclusion, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches have their unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. They both produce a clacky sound, but the WS Heavy Tactile switch provides an additional resonant sound profile with its nylon housings. In terms of feel, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offers sharp, accented, snappy, and stepped characteristics. The WS Heavy Tactile switch, on the other hand, provides accented, bouncy, invigorating, sharp, and snappy qualities. Based on the available information, these switches offer similar levels of tactility, but with slightly different sound and feel characteristics. Choosing between them would depend on personal preferences for sound and response.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are seeking a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility and a bottom out force of 63 grams, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is the perfect choice. These switches provide deep and resonating thocks, making typing a satisfying and immersive experience. In terms of sound, both switches are described as clacky and high-pitched, so there is not a significant difference. However, the WS Heavy Tactile does offer a resonant sound profile, providing a slightly different auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, both switches are described as accented, bouncy, sharp, and snappy. However, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is also described as sharp and stepped, offering a distinct tactile feedback. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile is described as invigorating, offering a moderate to firm actuation force and creating an immersive typing sensation.
Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on your personal preferences. If you prefer a medium-high level of tactility and a distinct tactile feedback, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is the way to go. However, if you are looking for a slightly different auditory experience and an invigorating typing sensation, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch would be a great option. Consider your preferences in terms of tactility, sound, and feel to make an informed decision. In the end, both switches offer their own unique features that can enhance your typing experience.
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