Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a mechanical keyboard switch, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear are two excellent options to consider. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is highly regarded for its tactile nature, providing a satisfying keypress with a medium-high level of tactility. Typing on these switches produces deep, resonating thocks that add a unique auditory element to your typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switch by Wuque offers a different approach. These linear switches are specifically designed to minimize switch noise, making them ideal for office and work environments where quietness is paramount. They offer unparalleled responsiveness and a satisfying bottom-out, without the usual cushioned sensation found in traditional silent switches. Both switches have their merits, providing distinct typing experiences depending on your preferences and requirements. 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
63.5g
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
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
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear both utilize different housing materials for their top and bottom housing, resulting in contrasting sound profiles. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's polycarbonate top and bottom housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiff plastic, enhancing clarity and resonance. Additionally, its translucency makes it ideal for RGB lighting enthusiasts. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear's nylon top and bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
While the top and bottom housings of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the WS Silent Linear differ, they both possess unique qualities that impact the overall sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing, influenced by the qualities of the polycarbonate in the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, contributes to the bottom-out sound and feel. Its relatively stiffer nature enhances impact and lends a more crisp sound. Conversely, the nylon bottom housing of the WS Silent Linear absorbs more sound, resulting in a softer and more rounded bottom-out feel. On the other hand, the top housing plays a significant role in the sound when releasing a key. The polycarbonate top housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring contributes to a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile, while the nylon top housing of the WS Silent Linear enhances the depth and fullness of the sound.
Overall, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear utilize different housing materials, they each offer distinct sound profiles. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's polycarbonate housing creates a clearer and resonant sound, particularly suited for those desiring RGB lighting. In contrast, the WS Silent Linear's nylon housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a smoother and fuller sound experience. Depending on personal preferences, these differences in sound profile can greatly impact the typing and gaming 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 Silent Linear linear switch, it is evident that they have some similarities and differences. The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has an actuation force of 55 grams, which is unknown for the WS Silent Linear. However, both switches have a bottom out force of 63 grams, indicating a medium-heavy feel. In terms of weight, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is lighter, making it suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear is heavier, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Overall, while the actuation forces may differ, both switches offer a medium-heavy bottom out force, ensuring similar results in terms of typing experience.
Travel distance
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch have contrasting travel distances. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a more traditional distance. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Gamers, who prioritize faster response times, may prefer the shorter travel distance of the WS Silent Linear switch. The shorter distance allows for quicker key presses and can enhance gaming performance. However, for those who prefer a more substantial and deeper key feel, the longer travel distance of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch may be the better choice. The longer travel distance provides a more pronounced tactile feedback and may be preferred by individuals who appreciate a more tactile typing experience. Overall, the choice between these switches ultimately depends on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
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 Silent Linear comes in at $4.20 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, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches are best described as clacky and high-pitched. These switches produce a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, giving a crisp, bright, and percussive sound profile. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches have a more neutral, muted, and subdued sound. They offer a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches, minimizing the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards. The WS Silent Linear switches provide a more tranquil and precise typing experience, devoid of the usual cushioned sensation found in traditional silent switches. However, it's important to note that the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's board and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches offer a range of tactile sensations. These switches are known for their sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped characteristics. The strong and crisp tactile bump of these switches provides a distinct feedback intensity with each keypress, giving a lively and responsive feel. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches provide a more mild and gentle typing experience. These switches offer a safe middle-ground zone, with qualities that are approachable to most users. While the exact feel of the WS Silent Linear switches is not explicitly described, their design suggests a smooth and linear actuation.
In conclusion, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches are characterized by their clacky, high-pitched sound profile and a range of tactile feedback intensities. These switches excel in providing a medium-high level of tactility and deep, resonating thocks when typing. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches are known for their neutral, muted, and subdued sound, coupled with a mild and gentle typing experience. These switches prioritize reduced switch noise and exceptional responsiveness, ensuring a seamless blend of tranquility and precision. While the sound and feel of both switches are distinct, each offering unique qualities, it's worth noting that individual preferences and the choice of keyboard board and keycaps can also influence the overall experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are seeking a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility and enjoy the deep, resonating thocks when typing, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a silent and precise typing experience for your office or work environment, the WS Silent Linear switch by Wuque Studio is the perfect option. These switches excel at reducing switch noise while maintaining exceptional responsiveness.
In terms of sound, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring produces a clacky and high-pitched sound, which can be desirable if you prefer a sharp and crisp sound profile. However, if you prefer a quieter and more muted typing experience, the WS Silent Linear switch is ideal. It offers a neutral and subdued sound that minimizes the noise associated with mechanical keyboards.
Regarding the feel, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring provides a sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped tactile feedback. These switches have a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be felt distinctly with each keystroke. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switch offers a mild typing experience. It provides a gentle and approachable feel that stands in a safe middle-ground zone.
In conclusion, the choice between the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches ultimately depends on your preferences and needs. If you prioritize tactility and enjoy a clacky sound with a sharp feedback, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is the switch for you. However, if you value a silent and precise typing experience with a muted sound, the WS Silent Linear switch is the perfect choice. Consider your desired level of tactility, sound, and feel before making your decision.
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