Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring vs. TTC Silent Frozen (V2)
An in-depth look at the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you are in the market for a mechanical keyboard switch, two options that stand out are the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the TTC Silent Frozen. The Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is a tactile switch, offering a medium level of tactility that is highly recommended for those seeking a responsive typing experience. With a lower actuation and bottom-out force, it provides a comfortable and approachable tactility. Additionally, it boasts a deep and thocky sound profile, which can enhance the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Frozen is a linear switch known for its extremely quiet sound profile. If noise reduction is a top priority for you, these switches are an excellent choice. Not only are they silent, but they also offer a super smooth and pillowy typing feel. Characterized as thocky, low-pitched, creamy, buttery, muted, feathery, subtle, and polished, the Silent Frozen switches provide a unique and pleasant typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your specific preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
48g
Actuation force
39g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Silver white spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the TTC Silent Frozen both feature polycarbonate top and bottom housings. This means that they will provide similar results when it comes to the sound profile and aesthetics of the switches. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer plastic composition. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting, as it allows the light to pass through, creating a visually appealing effect.
However, it is important to note that the top and bottom housings of a switch can have different impacts on the overall sound and feel. When pressing down on either the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring or the Silent Frozen, you will feel the qualities of the bottom housing. This means that the bottom housing material will play a significant role in determining the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. On the other hand, the top housing material will have a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while both switches may have similar polycarbonate housings, the overall experience may differ slightly depending on the specific qualities of the top and bottom housings.
In conclusion, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the TTC Silent Frozen share the same polycarbonate housing materials for both the top and bottom housings. This means that they will provide similar results in terms of sound profile and aesthetics, with a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate. The translucency of the polycarbonate also allows for the incorporation of RGB lighting effects. However, it's important to consider that the top and bottom housings can have different impacts on the overall sound and feel of the switches. The bottom housing material influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material affects the sound when releasing a key.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch and the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch, it is evident that they have different force requirements. The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has a slightly heavier actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, which can be considered medium-light. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Frozen switch has a lighter actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, which can be classified as light.
Considering the weight of these switches, it becomes clear that the TTC Silent Frozen provides a lighter typing experience compared to the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring. This lighter actuation force can be beneficial for individuals who prefer a more effortless keystroke, enabling them to type for longer periods without experiencing fatigue. This makes the TTC Silent Frozen switch a suitable choice for those seeking a keyboard for work or extended gaming sessions.
In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch offers a slightly heavier actuation force, providing a more substantial typing experience. This can be desirable for individuals who prefer a stronger push feel and enjoy a tactile feedback when pressing down on the keys. The higher bottom out force of 55 grams also ensures that the keys are pressed all the way down, providing a satisfying sensation for those who appreciate a more pronounced keystroke.
In summary, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch has a slightly heavier actuation force and bottom out force, the TTC Silent Frozen switch offers a lighter typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences. Those who favor lighter switches for extended typing sessions may opt for the TTC Silent Frozen, while individuals who desire a more substantial keystroke experience may prefer the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch and the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Silent Frozen has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Silent Frozen.
In terms of preference and use cases, the shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm in the Silent Frozen switch may be favored by gamers looking for faster response times. The shorter distance allows for quicker key presses, resulting in improved reaction times during gameplay. On the other hand, some individuals may find the shorter travel distance to feel too abrupt, preferring more depth in the typing experience. For those who appreciate a hearty keystroke, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring with its 4 mm travel distance may be the preferable option.
Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience. Both switches offer their own advantages, and it's crucial to consider factors such as responsiveness and key feel when making a decision. Whether opting for the shorter travel distance of the Silent Frozen or the longer travel distance of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, users can expect a satisfactory typing experience that caters to their specific needs.
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 Frozen (V2) has an MSRP of $8.61 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Frozen (V2) for $5.55.
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 Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is best known for its deep and thocky sound profile. This means that when the key is pressed and released, it produces a satisfying "thud" or "knock" sound, creating a rich and deep tone. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Frozen switch is characterized by its extremely quiet sound profile. It falls under the category of muted switches, which means it produces softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches. The Silent Frozen switch also has a low-pitched sound, meaning it features a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Overall, if you're looking for a switch with a deep and thocky sound, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring would be a great choice, while the Silent Frozen switch offers a quiet and low-pitched sound.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch provides a bouncy feedback sensation. It gives a spring-like or elastic feel to the keys, offering a lively and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Frozen switch is known for its creamy and buttery typing experience. This means it is exceptionally smooth and offers a silky sensation when typing. The Silent Frozen switch also falls under the feathery category, which implies that it is exceptionally light to press and requires little exertion from the fingers. This reduces finger fatigue and makes it comfortable for extended typing sessions. Additionally, the Silent Frozen switch has a subtle typing feel, providing a gentle resistance without being too heavy. It is also polished, meaning it has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Overall, if you prefer a bouncy and lively typing experience, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch would be an excellent choice. However, if you prioritize a smooth and effortless typing sensation, the Silent Frozen switch would be more suitable.
Taking all the available information into consideration, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch and the TTC Silent Frozen switch have distinct subjective qualities. The Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch offers a deep and thocky sound profile, along with a bouncy feedback sensation. It provides a medium level of tactility and is approachable for users who prefer a tactile switch. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen switch is renowned for its extremely quiet sound profile, along with a creamy and buttery typing experience. It is exceptionally smooth and light to press, making it suitable for extended typing sessions. While they differ in sound and feel, both switches offer unique experiences depending on individual preferences. Whether you prioritize a deep and thocky sound with a bouncy feel or a quiet and smooth typing experience, these switches cater to different user preferences. However, it's important to note that the sound and feel of switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Nonetheless, with the information provided, you can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel based on these subjective qualities.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility, we highly recommend the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch. With its lower actuation and bottom-out force, it provides a very approachable tactility, making it suitable for everyday use. Additionally, it features a deep and thocky sound profile, creating a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, if you prioritize a quiet typing experience, the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch is the ideal choice. Not only does it produce an extremely quiet sound with its thocky and low-pitched characteristics, but it also offers a super smooth and pillowy feel when typing. Whether you prefer a bouncy and lively feedback or a creamy and buttery typing experience, both switches deliver unique sensations. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your specific preferences regarding tactility, sound, and overall typing experience.
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