Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the PH Studio Yoel offer unique typing experiences worth considering. The Shadow switch is a tactile option with a medium-high level of tactility, providing a satisfying feedback while typing with its long, two-staged spring. Users can expect deep, resonating thocks when using these Shadow switches, contributing to a clacky and sharp typing experience. On the other hand, the Yoel linear switch by PH Studio boasts a chewy typing sensation that envelops fingertips with every press. Known for its bright and clacky sound profile, the Yoel delivers a satisfying and pronounced resonance when keys are bottomed-out. Both switches offer different characteristics that cater to individual preferences, making the decision between them a matter of personal taste. 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
53g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the PH Studio Yoel both feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is known for its stiffness, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate is ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Yoel stands out with its POM bottom housing, which produces a unique and pleasing sound that is deeper and more muted compared to polycarbonate.
While both switches share the use of polycarbonate in their top housing, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring features a polycarbonate bottom housing, mirroring the effects of the top housing on the bottom-out sound and feel. In contrast, the PH Studio Yoel's POM bottom housing provides a different sound profile, emphasizing a deeper and more subdued tone. This showcases how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of a switch, affecting both keystrokes and release.
Overall, the housing materials of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the PH Studio Yoel play a crucial role in defining their sound profiles. While both switches offer a sharp and crisp sound due to their polycarbonate top housing, the difference in bottom housing material sets them apart. The Aflion switch provides a consistent sound throughout the keystroke, influenced by its polycarbonate bottom housing, while the Yoel offers a more distinctive and deeper sound with its POM bottom housing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, both switches fall into the medium range of force required. The Shadow (Ink) has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Yoel's 53 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Shadow (Ink) requires 63 grams while the Yoel requires 60 grams. This means that the Shadow (Ink) provides a slightly heavier typing experience overall. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Yoel might be the better option, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, those looking for a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Shadow (Ink) for its slightly heavier forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option compared to the PH Studio Yoel linear switch with a travel distance of 3.2 mm. The longer travel distance of the Shadow (Ink) switch may provide a more substantial tactile feel for those who prefer a deeper key press, while the Yoel switch with the shorter travel distance could appeal to gamers looking for a faster response time. Both switches offer unique benefits based on their travel distances, so it ultimately depends on individual preferences in terms of key feel and responsiveness.
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 PH Studio Yoel has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yoel for $4.10.
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, both the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the PH Studio Yoel switches offer a clacky profile, producing sharp and crisp sounds when pressed. However, the Shadow switch leans towards a high-pitched sound, creating a more resonant and deep thock while typing. On the other hand, the Yoel switch adds a marbly texture to the mix, offering a bright and clacky sound with a pronounced resonance at the bottom-out point. Ultimately, both switches provide satisfying auditory experiences, but the Shadow switch may cater more to those who prefer a deeper and more resonant sound profile.
In terms of feel, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offers a sharp and accented tactile experience, with a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be distinctly felt with each keypress. The switch's dual-staged spring design adds snappiness and bounce to the overall typing feel, providing a lively and responsive experience. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel switch offers a creamy and silky typing sensation, thanks to its polished and lubricated design. This results in a smooth and refined key travel with reduced friction, allowing fingertips to effortlessly glide across the keys. Both switches excel in delivering tactile feedback, but the Shadow switch may appeal more to users who prefer a sharper and more pronounced tactile bump.
In conclusion, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch showcase distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Shadow switch offers a deep and resonant sound profile with a sharp and accented tactile feel, perfect for those seeking a medium-high level of tactility. On the other hand, the Yoel switch provides a bright and clacky sound with a creamy and silky typing experience, ideal for users looking for a smooth and refined key travel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles and preferences, ensuring a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you are seeking a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility and a deep, resonating thock sound profile, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a delectably chewy typing experience, a bright and clacky sound profile, and a silky smooth feel, then the PH Studio Yoel linear switch would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preference for tactility, sound, and feel while typing. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences to enhance your overall typing experience.
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