Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile
An in-depth look at the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile are both excellent options for those in search of tactile mechanical keyboard switches. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is ideal for individuals who desire a medium-high level of tactility, thanks to its long, two-staged spring. Typing on these switches provides a deep, resonating thock sound, adding an extra layer of satisfaction to your typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile switches by Wuque offer a different but equally enticing experience. These switches strike a delicate balance, providing a medium level of tactility without compromising on noise reduction. Crafted with precision, the WS Silent Tactile switches feature ingenious stem railings with small cutouts, minimizing switch sound while delivering a crisp bottom-out and responsive return. Unlike conventional silent switches, these tactile switches forgo silicone dampeners, resulting in a typing experience devoid of the usual padded feel found in most silent switches. Both switches have their unique features and characteristics, making them suitable for different preferences and environments. 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 housing materials of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which enhances the resonant and clear sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the effective utilization of RGB lighting, making it aesthetically appealing. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound experience.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the WS Silent Tactile feature different materials and, therefore, distinct sound characteristics. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring contributes to the sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile observed in this switch. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the WS Silent Tactile enhances the sound experience by eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. While the polycarbonate bottom housing imparts clarity and resonance, the nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, leading to a rounded and duller sound output.
When considering the overall effect on the switch's sound and feel, the top and bottom housings play distinct roles. The bottom housing has a more prominent impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed. The qualities of the bottom housing, such as the stiffness of polycarbonate or the sound absorption of nylon, contribute to the tactile feedback experienced during key press. On the other hand, the top housing influences the sound produced when releasing a key. Factors such as the stiffness of polycarbonate or the absorbency of nylon are more pronounced in this aspect of the switch's sound profile. Therefore, the variations in material composition between the top and bottom housing result in different sensory experiences throughout the typing process.
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 Tactile switch, we find some similarities and differences. The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has an actuation force of 55 grams, whereas the actuation force of the WS Silent Tactile switch is unavailable, meaning we do not have this information. Both switches have a bottom out force of 63 grams, which falls into the medium range. In terms of weight, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is lighter compared to the WS Silent Tactile switch, as it has a lower actuation force. This lighter actuation force may be preferred by individuals who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile switch offers a slightly heavier push feel since its bottom out force is 63.5 grams, making it medium-heavy. This heavier force may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push. Overall, while we have data on the actuation force of only one switch, we can see that the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is lighter, and the WS Silent Tactile is slightly heavier with a medium-heavy force.
Travel distance
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile 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 Tactile has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The shorter travel distance of the WS Silent Tactile makes it a preferred choice among gamers who value faster response times. It provides a more responsive typing experience. However, for those who prefer a deeper keypress, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring with its longer travel distance would be the better option. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the desired level of keypress depth.
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 Tactile 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
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is best known for its deep, resonating thocks when typing, creating a clacky and high-pitched sound profile. This switch offers a medium-high level of tactility with its two-staged spring, providing a sharp and snappy tactile bump that can be felt distinctly with each keypress. The WS Silent Tactile switch, on the other hand, strikes a delicate balance between tactility and noise reduction. It is described as having a neutral sound profile, with a quieter and softer sound compared to regular switches. The WS Silent Tactile switch is also an accented switch, providing a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Its invigorating and reactive feel, along with a snappy bottom-out and responsive return, create an immersive typing sensation.
In summary, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, providing a medium-high level of tactility with its sharp and snappy tactile bump. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile, with a quieter and softer sound, while still providing a medium level of tactility. Both switches are accented, meaning they offer a prominent amount of tactility that is not overwhelming nor subtle. While the Shadow switch focuses on creating a lively and bouncy feel, the WS Silent Tactile switch aims for a more invigorating and reactive typing experience. Depending on your preferences, either switch can provide a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are seeking a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility and a crisp typing experience, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is the perfect choice for you. These switches offer deep, resonating thocks when typing and have a bottom out force of 63 grams, which is considered medium.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a quiet and tranquil working environment without compromising on tactility, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches are the way to go. These switches strike a delicate balance between a medium level of tactility and noise reduction, creating an impressive silent profile. They have a slightly higher bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which is considered medium-heavy.
In terms of sound, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches produce a clacky and high-pitched sound, giving a distinct and sharp audio feedback. On the contrary, the WS Silent Tactile switches provide a neutral and muted sound, minimizing the noise associated with mechanical keyboards.
When it comes to feel, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches are described as sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped. They offer a high feedback intensity with a prominent tactile bump, making each keypress feel alive. The WS Silent Tactile switches, on the other hand, are described as accented, invigorating, and mild. They offer a more gentle typing experience with a moderate to firm actuation force and a reactive feel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches depends on your preferences. If you desire a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility and a crisp typing experience, go for the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring. However, if you prioritize a quiet and tranquil working environment without sacrificing tactility, opt for the WS Silent Tactile.
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