Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring vs. Wuque Studio WS Morandi
An in-depth look at the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a new mechanical keyboard switch, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi are excellent options to consider. The Shadow switch variant is a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility, perfect for those seeking a tactile typing experience. Its long, two-staged spring provides a satisfying feel, accompanied by deep, resonating thocks when typing. On the other hand, the WS Morandi switches offer a unique combination of innovation and visual aesthetics. These ultra-smooth linear switches feature a diffusing light column, enhancing RGB visuals with a mesmerizing effect. The UPE stem adds a distinct dry and airy smoothness, different from the creamy feel of factory-lubed switches. With a medium weight and slightly shortened total travel, the WS Morandi switches strike the perfect balance between form and function. Although these general pointers can assist in your decision-making process, let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities to help you choose the best switch for your specific preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
UPE
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Spring
18mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi differ in their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring boasts a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is particularly advantageous for those planning to use RGB lighting. In contrast, the WS Morandi utilizes a POM top housing that produces an incredibly pleasing and unique sound characterized by a deeper tone and relative mutedness.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring maintains its polycarbonate composition, resulting in the same qualities found in the top housing. The relatively stiffer plastic of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile, with a sharper and crisper tone. A clear bottom housing is also often associated with polycarbonate, offering an aesthetically pleasing look. Conversely, the Wuque Studio WS Morandi adopts a POM bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper sound profile that is relatively more muted. This housing material imparts a distinctive tonality to the switch, providing a pleasing auditory experience.
In terms of user experience, when both top and bottom housings differ in a switch, the qualities delivered by each housing material will be split between the top and bottom of the key. As a result, pressing down on the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch will primarily showcase the qualities of its polycarbonate bottom housing, impacting the sound and feel upon bottoming out the key. Conversely, the top housing will have a greater influence on the sound emitted when releasing the key. Similarly, Wuque Studio WS Morandi users will experience the impact of the POM bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will affect the key release sound.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to note. The actuation force of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is 55 grams, while the actuation force of the WS Morandi is not available. Both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring measuring at 63 grams and the WS Morandi at 60 grams. It is worth mentioning that while the actuation force for the WS Morandi is unknown, it is likely to be within the medium range based on its similar bottom out force.
The weight of a switch is an important factor to consider, as it can greatly affect the typing experience. Some individuals prefer lighter switches as it allows them to type for longer periods without experiencing fatigue. This is particularly beneficial for those who use their keyboards for work or engage in long gaming sessions. On the other hand, there are users who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. These individuals may opt for switches with heavier forces, as it provides a satisfying tactile feedback.
In terms of weight, it can be inferred that the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is lighter than the Wuque Studio WS Morandi, as it has a lower actuation force. However, since the actuation force of the WS Morandi is unknown, it is difficult to make a definitive comparison in terms of weight. Nonetheless, both switches provide a medium bottom out force, which implies a similar level of feedback when pressing the keys fully. Overall, the choice between these two switches would come down to personal preference for either a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch, it is clear that the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has a longer travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the WS Morandi has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The difference may seem minimal, but it can have a significant impact on the typing or gaming experience. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, with its longer travel distance, provides a deeper and more substantial feeling when pressing down on the keys. This can be appealing to users who prefer a satisfying tactile feedback and a sense of stability. On the other hand, the WS Morandi's shorter travel distance offers a quicker and more responsive key press, which is often preferred by gamers who require swift reaction times. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference and the specific requirements 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 Wuque Studio WS Morandi comes in at $3.90 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
The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is best known for its medium-high level of tactility and deep, resonating thock sound. When typing on these switches, you can expect a clacky and high-pitched sound profile. The tactile bump is sharp and noticeable, providing a strong and crisp feedback intensity. The keystrokes are snappy and bouncy, with a spring-like feedback sensation. On the other hand, the WS Morandi switch offers a more muted sound profile. It has a low-pitched and subdued sound when pressed, creating a bass-heavy and mellow tone. The feel of the WS Morandi is described as buttery, creamy, and silky, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Overall, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offers a tactile experience with a clacky and high-pitched sound, while the WS Morandi switch provides a smoother and more muted sound with a buttery and silky feel. If you prefer a smoother sound and feel, the WS Morandi will be a suitable choice, while if you enjoy a more tactile and clicky experience, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch will deliver similar results.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you are seeking a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility and a clacky, high-pitched sound profile, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch would be a great choice for you. These switches offer deep, resonating thocks when typing, providing a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a more subdued, low-pitched sound profile and a smooth, buttery typing experience, the Wuque Studio WS Morandi switch is the way to go. With its unique UPE stem and long pole design, these switches strike a perfect balance between form and function. You can expect a slightly muted sound profile and an ultra-smooth typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your personal preferences for tactility, sound, and overall typing experience.
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