Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring vs. Wuque Studio WS Yellow
An in-depth look at the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you are in the market for a mechanical keyboard switch, look no further than the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow. The Shadow switch, a tactile option, boasts a medium-high level of tactility with its long, two-staged spring. Typing on these switches produces deep, resonating thocks, which can enhance your typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Yellow is a linear switch that offers a timeless fusion of classic materials and cutting-edge engineering. With a 22mm double-stage spring, these switches deliver a delightful typing experience with a satisfying bounce. Additionally, the material blend of the WS Yellow provides a familiar sound signature that many enthusiasts adore. Crafted to be lightweight, these switches ensure effortless keystrokes for a smooth and fluid typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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 double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow have contrasting housing materials. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring features a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. On the other hand, the WS Yellow utilizes a nylon top housing, known for generating a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the WS Yellow take different approaches. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to its sharp, higher-pitched, and crisp sound profile. Similar to the top housing, the stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the switch sound. On the contrary, the WS Yellow utilizes a nylon bottom housing, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound experience. Nylon's softer nature allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
It's worth noting that the impact of each housing material differs depending on where it is utilized in the switch. When pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the bottom housing will be more prominent, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. While the two switches have contrasting housing materials, both offer unique sound profiles and their respective materials play a significant role in shaping those profiles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, we can observe some similarities and differences. In terms of weight, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is on the heavier side, with an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams. This makes it a suitable choice for those who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Yellow is lighter, with an actuation force of an unknown value and a bottom out force of 53 grams, which falls into the medium-light category.
For individuals who prefer a lighter switch, the WS Yellow would be a good option, as it allows for longer typing periods without causing fatigue. However, if someone desires a more tactile and weighted typing experience, they may find the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring more suitable. Overall, while both switches fall within the medium range in terms of force required, there is a slight distinction with the WS Yellow leaning towards the lighter end and the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring being the heavier option. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches have relatively traditional travel distances, with the Shadow (Ink) being the longer of the two. However, the difference of 0.2 mm may not be significant for most users. Gamers, who often prioritize faster response times, tend to lean towards switches with shorter travel distances. The WS Yellow switch would be a suitable choice in this scenario. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial and deeper feeling when typing, the Shadow (Ink) with its slightly longer travel distance may be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches should be based 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 Yellow 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
In terms of sound, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched characteristics. When pressed, these switches produce a sharp and snappy sound, reminiscent of a crisp and percussive thock. On the other hand, the sound profile of the WS Yellow switch is unknown. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch has several descriptors that indicate its tactile nature. It is described as sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped. These switches offer a high level of feedback intensity with a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be distinctly felt with each keypress. Furthermore, the use of longer or dual-staged springs enhances the typing experience, making it feel more alive. On the other hand, the WS Yellow switch is described as creamy, mild, and polished. These switches provide a smooth and buttery typing experience, with a gentle feel that falls within the safe middle-ground zone. They offer reduced friction and smooth key travel, resulting in a sleek typing experience.
In conclusion, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offers a tactile typing experience with a medium-high level of tactility and deep, resonating thocks when typing. It has a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, as well as sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped feel characteristics. On the other hand, the WS Yellow switch provides a creamy and polished typing experience that is mild and approachable. Although its sound profile is unknown, it offers lightweight and effortless keystrokes. Both switches offer unique subjective qualities based on the available information, allowing users to choose the one that aligns with their preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are seeking a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility and enjoy deep, resonating thocks when typing, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring would be an excellent choice. With its long, two-staged spring, this switch provides a satisfying and lively typing experience. Additionally, if you prefer clacky and high-pitched sound profiles, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring will deliver the crisp and percussive sound you desire.
On the other hand, if you value a smooth and buttery typing experience with a more gentle feel, the WS Yellow linear switch would be a great option. The 22mm double-stage spring at its core offers a delightful bounce, ensuring effortless keystrokes and a smooth and fluid typing experience. Furthermore, the WS Yellow provides a creamy and polished typing sensation, thanks to the applied lubricant and refined finish. While the sound profile of the WS Yellow is not explicitly mentioned, it can be assumed to be relatively quiet compared to the clackiness of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring.
Ultimately, the decision between the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow will come down to personal preference. Consider whether you prioritize tactility and a pronounced sound profile or a smooth and gentle feel when making your choice. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so it is important to assess your own preferences and typing style before making a decision.
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