Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the TTC Silent Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the TTC Silent Brown. If you prefer a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is an excellent choice. With its lower actuation and bottom-out force, it offers a very approachable tactility while delivering a deep and thocky sound profile. On the other hand, the Silent Brown switches from TTC provide a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump. Additionally, these switches have a muted sound profile that many users appreciate. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
48g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the TTC Silent Brown switches share the use of polycarbonate in their top housing. This material choice results in a similar sound profile for both switches, characterized by a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisp sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for RGB lighting, providing an aesthetically pleasing option for those who want to add lighting effects to their keyboard. So, in terms of sound and lighting effects, users can expect similar results from both switches.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring differs from the Silent Brown. The Shadow (Ink) features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound profile. Conversely, the Silent Brown utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, giving the Silent Brown a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, users looking for a switch with a more pronounced bottom-out sound may find the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring more suitable, while those seeking a switch with a deeper and fuller sound might prefer the Silent Brown.
In terms of tactile feedback, the top housing material plays a significant role in the feel and sound when pressing and releasing a key. The Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the Silent Brown both benefit from the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, providing a more tactile experience compared to switches with softer top housing materials. However, since the Silent Brown utilizes a nylon bottom housing, it may have a slightly different feel on bottom-out compared to the Shadow (Ink). The bottom housing's impact on the sound and feel of a switch primarily affects the bottom-out sound, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, users can expect similar tactile feedback but may notice subtle differences in the sound and feel when using these switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, we can see some similarities and differences. In terms of actuation force, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring requires 48 grams, while the Silent Brown requires 45 grams. Both switches fall within the medium range, meaning they provide a balanced amount of force to trigger a keystroke.
However, when it comes to bottom out force, there is a notable disparity. The Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has a bottom out force of 55 grams, while the Silent Brown has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams. This makes the Silent Brown slightly heavier in terms of the force required to fully press a key.
Considering weight, some individuals prefer lighter switches as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue, making it ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for heavier switches, as it provides a stronger push feel.
Overall, while the actuation forces are relatively similar for the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the TTC Silent Brown, their bottom out forces differ. The Silent Brown is slightly heavier in this aspect. Whether one prefers a lighter or heavier option will depend on their personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, we find that the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Silent Brown has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. These variations may seem insignificant, but they can have a noticeable impact on the typing experience. The 4.0mm travel distance of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring falls within the range of the most traditional travel distances, providing a balanced and familiar feeling when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the 3.8mm travel distance of the Silent Brown is slightly shallower, which makes it more suitable for those seeking faster response times. Gamers, in particular, often prefer shorter travel distances to enhance their performance. However, it's important to note that some individuals may find shorter travel distances too abrupt, lacking the depth they desire in their keystrokes. In such cases, opting for a switch with a longer travel distance, like the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, would offer a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the intended use case.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single 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) Single Spring for $3.57.
The TTC Silent Brown has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Brown for $5.00.
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) Single Spring switch offers a deep and thocky sound profile, although specific details about its sound are not mentioned. On the other hand, the Silent Brown switch is known for its muted sound profile, producing softer and quieter sounds compared to regular or clacky switches. 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. Overall, both switches provide a pleasant and more subdued sound experience.
Moving on to feel, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is described as bouncy, offering a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation. This means that the keys have a lively feel and provide a rebound when pressed. In comparison, the Silent Brown switch is characterized as buttery, implying a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. These switches offer a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. Additionally, the Silent Brown switch is also described as mild, indicating a more gentle typing experience that would be approachable to most users. It is further mentioned that the switch has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. This polished surface enhances the overall typing experience.
Taking into account all the available information, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is recommended for individuals seeking a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility. It provides an approachable tactility with lower actuation and bottom-out forces. The switch is also known for its bouncy feel, offering a lively and rebounding typing experience. In terms of sound, it offers a deep and thocky profile, although specific details are not provided. On the other hand, the Silent Brown switch is recommended for those looking for a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump. It provides a muted sound profile, producing softer and quieter sounds. The switch is characterized as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, and has a polished finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel. Overall, both switches offer their own unique qualities and choosing between them would depend on individual preferences and desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility and a lower actuation and bottom-out force, we highly recommend the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch. These switches provide a very approachable tactility and have a deep and thocky sound profile. Additionally, if you prefer a bouncy feel, these switches provide a lively feedback sensation. On the other hand, if you prioritize a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump, the TTC Silent Brown switch is an excellent choice. These switches offer a muted sound profile, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. They provide a buttery, mild, and polished typing experience, with smooth key travel and effortless keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your preferences for actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel.
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