Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you are in search of a mechanical keyboard switch that offers a satisfying tactile experience, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is an excellent option. With its long, two-staged spring, this variant of the Shadow switch provides a medium-high level of tactility, making it ideal for those who prefer a more pronounced feedback while typing. Additionally, the Shadow switches are known for their deep and resonating thocks, adding an extra level of satisfaction to your typing experience. On the other hand, if you prioritize a delicate typing experience or often find yourself typing for extended periods, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch may be more suited to your needs. The Yanyu switches boast a material blend that offers a crisp sound profile, creating a satisfying auditory experience with each keystroke. Categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', 'Feathery', 'Subtle', and 'Polished', the Yanyu switch provides a smooth and subtle typing feel. However, let's delve deeper into the nuanced differences between these switches so you can make an informed decision about which one will be the best fit for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the SP-Star Yanyu differ significantly in composition. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring features a polycarbonate top housing, while the Yanyu utilizes a blend of polymer nylon and UHMWPE for its top housing. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, which translates into a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the Yanyu's polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing produces a sound profile that is pleasant, not particularly sharp, but leans towards being brighter. Therefore, those seeking a switch with a clearer and resonant sound would find the polycarbonate top housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring more suitable, while those desiring a more pleasant and brighter sound may prefer the Yanyu's blend.
The distinction between the housing materials is also observed in the bottom housings of these switches. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring incorporates a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the Yanyu employs a blend of polymer nylon and UHMWPE for its bottom housing. As with the top housing, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend bottom housing of the Yanyu creates a unique sound profile that is pleasant and lacks sharpness, but leans towards being brighter. When pressing down on the switch and experiencing the bottom-out sound and feel, the qualities of the bottom housing will be more prominent. Meanwhile, when releasing a key and focusing on the sound, the impact of the top housing, whether polycarbonate or the blend, will be more noticeable.
Despite the differences in housing materials, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the SP-Star Yanyu provide similar benefits. Both switches prioritize sound quality, with the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's polycarbonate contributing to a sharp and resonant sound, while the Yanyu's polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend offering a pleasant and bright sound profile. Additionally, the clarity and brightness of the switches' respective housing materials are advantageous for those who plan to use RGB lighting. Therefore, individuals seeking switches with high-quality sound and compatibility with RGB lighting can achieve comparable results with either the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring or the Yanyu, depending on their preference for a sharper or brighter sound.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, there is a clear difference in their force requirements. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has an actuation force of 55 grams, which means that a moderate amount of pressure is needed to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the actuation force of the Yanyu switch is unknown, making it difficult to pinpoint its exact force requirement.
For the bottom out force, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring requires 63 grams of force to fully depress the switch, indicating a medium level of resistance. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch has a bottom out force of 43 grams, which is relatively lighter compared to the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring.
Considering the weight aspect, some individuals prefer lighter switches as it allows them to type for longer periods without experiencing fatigue. This is especially beneficial for those who bring their keyboards to work or engage in long gaming sessions. However, there are also users who prefer a heavier push feel for a more substantial typing experience. For these users, opting for switches with heavier forces would be more suitable.
In summary, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch requires a moderate actuation force and a medium bottom out force, while the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch has an unknown actuation force and a lighter bottom out force. The choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance of travel between the top and bottom positions. Both switches offer a consistent tactile experience with their 4 mm 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 SP-Star Yanyu has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yanyu for $5.40.
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 switch is known for producing deep, resonating thocks. This switch has a clacky sound profile, which means it produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. It also has a high-pitched sound, giving it a crisp and bright tone. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu switch has a more neutral sound profile, providing a moderate sound that is suitable for most purposes. However, it is also described as thocky, meaning it produces a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. Overall, if you prefer a sharper, higher-pitched sound, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch would be a better choice. If you prefer a more neutral, thocky sound, the Yanyu switch would be more suitable. Keep in mind that the sound of the switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offers a range of tactile sensations. It has a sharp tactile bump that provides high feedback intensity, allowing you to feel each keypress distinctly. This switch is also described as accented, meaning it has a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. It is also snappy, thanks to its longer and double-staged spring, making the typing experience feel more alive. Additionally, it has a bouncy feel, giving the keys a spring-like feedback sensation. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu switch offers a more mild typing experience. It has a gentle tactile feel that stands in a safe middle-ground zone. It can be described as feathery, indicating that it is exceptionally light to press and requires little exertion from your fingers. This reduces finger fatigue and makes it comfortable for extended typing sessions. Furthermore, the Yanyu switch has a subtle resistance, providing a light typing feel. It is also polished, resulting in a smooth and refined finish that allows for smooth key travel with reduced friction. Overall, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offers a more pronounced and lively tactile experience, while the Yanyu switch provides a gentler and more approachable typing feel.
In conclusion, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offers a medium-high level of tactility with a sharp and snappy sound profile. It provides a distinctive and lively typing experience with its sharp tactile bump and snappy feedback. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu switch offers a more delicate and mild typing experience, accompanied by a neutral sound profile with a deep and satisfying thocky sound. Both switches have their unique qualities and cater to different preferences. If you are seeking a tactile switch with a higher level of tactility and a sharper sound, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch would be a better choice. If you prefer a gentler typing experience and a more neutral sound with a deep thocky tone, the Yanyu switch would be more suitable. Keep in mind that the overall typing experience can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Conclusion
To sum up, 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 switch is the perfect choice for you. This switch offers a sharp and snappy sound profile, making it clacky and high-pitched. Its sharp tactile bump, accented feel, snappy response, and bouncy feedback provide a lively and distinct typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a more delicate typing experience or need to type for long periods of time, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch will suit your needs. With a bottom out force of 43 grams, it offers a light and feathery feel, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The Yanyu switch has a neutral sound profile, providing a moderate and thocky sound when pressed. Its mild feel, subtle resistance, and polished finish contribute to a comfortable and smooth typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your preferences and typing requirements.
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