Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, personal preference plays an essential role in determining the optimal choice for individual typists and gamers alike. The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is a tactile switch that offers a medium-high level of tactility, making it ideal for users who appreciate a pronounced feedback when typing. This switch features a long, two-staged spring that results in deep, resonating thocks, which can create an engaging typing experience. It’s classified as clacky, high-pitched, sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped, lending itself well to those who enjoy a more dynamic sound profile while typing. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) is a linear switch that offers a smoother keystroke experience due to its heavier actuation force. Constructed with a unique PA12 top housing, it delivers a softer acoustic profile, while its POM stem provides a crisp, higher-pitched resonance. The Xinhai Heavy appeals to users who prefer a more subtle and refined feel under their fingers, balancing performance with acoustics. While the benefits of each switch are distinct—one leaning towards tactile feedback and sound, the other towards smoothness and subtlety—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
55g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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 comparison between the housing materials of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) reveals distinct auditory experiences shaped by their different compositions. The Shadow's polycarbonate top housing is designed to provide a sharper, crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffer nature. This rigidity contributes to clarity and resonance, producing a more pronounced audio feedback that many typists may find preferable for a tactile experience. Moreover, polycarbonate’s translucency enhances aesthetic appeal, particularly in equiping users who favor RGB lighting. Thus, switches using this material excel in delivering vibrant sound while enhancing the visual elements of a keyboard.
In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings, imparting a deeper, fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon has a sound-absorbing quality that leads to a rounder, more muted auditory experience. This characteristic can be particularly appealing for those who prefer a quieter, less piercing typing sound. Since the nylon is used for both the top and bottom housings, the impact of its softer material is felt throughout the typing experience, providing a consistent auditory signature that might not resonate well with individuals who favor a more electric sound profile.
Despite their differing materials, both the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Xinhai (Heavy) can provide enjoyable typing experiences, albeit through different sensory pathways. Each switch's performance is influenced by the materials in both their top and bottom housings. In the case of the Shadow, the polycarbonate's clarity is emphasized during key release, while nylon's absorptive qualities dominate the bottom-out sound of the Xinhai. For users in search of versatility and personalization, experimenting with key switches from both series could yield interesting outcomes, as they reflect a broad range of auditory profiles. Thus, finding the right balance between sharper tones and softer, deeper tones might hinge on individual preference, confirming that both switches can satisfy varied user tastes in sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, we find that both switches exhibit similar actuation forces, with the Shadow (Ink) requiring 55 grams to trigger a keystroke and the Xinhai (Heavy) also requiring 55 grams. This means that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of the force needed to actuate each key. However, when examining the bottom out forces, the Shadow (Ink) has a slightly higher bottom out force of 63 grams compared to the Xinhai's 62.5 grams. While these differences are minimal, it indicates that the Shadow (Ink) may provide a marginally firmer feel at the maximum depth, which some users may appreciate for a more substantial typing experience. Overall, both switches are considered medium in weight, targeting users who enjoy a balance between lighter and heavier switches. If you're looking for a switch that allows for long typing sessions without fatigue, either might suit your needs, but the Shadow (Ink) may offer a bit more tactile feedback upon bottoming out.
Travel distance
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, whereas the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch features a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This difference in travel distance impacts user experience significantly; the Shadow (Ink) switch, with its longer 4 mm travel, provides a more substantial and tactile feedback, ideal for those who enjoy a deeper feel while typing or gaming. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) switch’s shorter 3.4 mm travel is geared towards users who prefer faster response times, which is particularly beneficial for gaming scenarios where speed is crucial. Ultimately, if you favor a hearty depth, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch might be the better choice, while those seeking a more responsive feel may want to opt for the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch due to its shorter travel distance.
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 HMX Xinhai (Heavy) has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Xinhai (Heavy) for $2.99.
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 comparing the sound profiles of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, the Shadow switch stands out with its rich acoustic characteristics, often described as deep, resonating thocks that deliver a clacky sound. This sharp and snappy audio creates an engaging typing experience that can be particularly satisfying for those who appreciate auditory feedback in their keystrokes. The Xinhai (Heavy), on the other hand, is crafted to embody a softer acoustic profile, utilizing a material choice of PA12 for its top housing, which typically results in a more subdued and refined sound. While it has a distinct crisp, higher-pitched resonance due to its POM stem, the lack of specific descriptors for the Xinhai's sound suggests it may not offer the same pronounced auditory feedback as the Shadow switch.
In terms of feel, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring excels with its combination of strong tactile feedback and responsiveness. Descriptors like "sharp" and "snappy" highlight the high intensity of the tactile bump, delivering a precise and lively typing experience. The dual-staged spring contributes to a bouncy and engaging feel with an elevated level of tactility, while the stepped nature of the switch introduces a pleasant dynamic as it provides both pre-travel and post-travel nuances. Unfortunately, the tactile feel of the Xinhai (Heavy) is not detailed, leaving a gap in understanding compared to the rich feedback provided by the Shadow switch.
In conclusion, if you're looking for an engaging typing experience with lively sound and tactile feedback, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch is an excellent choice, offering pronounced auditory and tactile satisfaction. Conversely, while the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch promises a soft and sophisticated sound profile, further details about its feel are needed for a complete comparison. Overall, both switches cater to different preferences; thus, your choice will hinge on whether you prioritize a dynamic tactile experience or a more subdued auditory feedback while typing.
Conclusion
To sum up, your choice between the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal typing preferences and the kind of feedback you seek from your mechanical keyboard. If you desire a lively and engaging typing experience with notable tactility, the Shadow switch is the way to go. Its sharper tactile feedback and clacky sound profile can enhance your typing rhythm, making it ideal for both gaming and active typing tasks. The deep resonating thocks it produces add a satisfying auditory element that many users find enjoyable. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, linear feel with a subtler acoustic signature, the Xinhai (Heavy) is likely more suited to your needs. With its heavier touch and higher-pitched resonance, this switch offers a refined and sophisticated typing experience, especially if you value precision and a softer sound. Both switches offer a medium bottom-out force, but the Xinhai’s blend of materials makes for a more understated interaction. Ultimately, your preference for tactile feedback versus a linear, quieter typing experience will guide your decision.
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