Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, a tactile switch, and the Gateron Smoothie, a linear switch, stand out as popular options for different reasons. The Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is revered for its medium level of tactility, making it a great choice for those who prefer a tactile typing experience with a lower actuation and bottom-out force. Additionally, it offers a deep and thocky sound profile, adding to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie boasts a unique construction made entirely of POM material, providing a smooth typing experience with a thocky sound signature. It is also known for its lightweight touch, making it a comfortable option for extended typing sessions. 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
48g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the Gateron Smoothie play a crucial role in determining the sound profile of the switches. Both switches use different materials for their top and bottom housings, with the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring utilizing polycarbonate for both, while the Smoothie uses POM for both. The polycarbonate top and bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, while the POM housing of the Smoothie produces a deeper and more muted sound. In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate material used in the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switch.
In terms of sound profile, the choice of housing material in the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the Gateron Smoothie results in distinct differences. The polycarbonate housing in the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring produces a more clear and resonant sound due to its stiffness, while the POM housing in the Smoothie creates a unique and pleasing sound that is deeper and relatively more muted. This difference in sound profile can greatly impact the overall typing experience for users who prefer a crisp and sharp sound versus a deeper and more subdued one. Additionally, the use of translucent polycarbonate in the top housing of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring allows for the incorporation of RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal of the switch.
While the housing materials of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the Gateron Smoothie offer distinctive sound profiles, they both contribute to creating a satisfying typing experience. The impact of the housing material on the overall sound and feel of the switches is notable, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Whether one prefers the sharper, higher-pitched sound of polycarbonate or the deeper, more muted sound of POM, both switches offer a unique tactile experience that appeals to different preferences in mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, it is evident that the Shadow (Ink) has a slightly higher actuation force of 48 grams compared to the Smoothie's 40 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Shadow (Ink) requires 55 grams, while the Smoothie's bottom out force is unknown. The Shadow (Ink) provides a medium-light typing experience with a bit more resistance, suitable for those who prefer a slightly heavier push feel. In contrast, the Smoothie offers a lighter actuation force for a smoother and more effortless keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements, with lighter switches being better for extended typing sessions and heavier switches providing a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Gateron Smoothie the shorter option compared to the Aflion Shadow (Ink). The 0.4 mm may not seem like a significant difference, but it can impact the typing or gaming experience for some users. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Gateron Smoothie, while those who enjoy a more pronounced key press may lean towards the Aflion Shadow (Ink) with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing habits.
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 Gateron Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie for $2.60.
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) Single Spring switch is known for its deep and thocky sound profile, creating a satisfying auditory experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch offers a thocky sound signature as well, providing a rich and pleasing sound when pressed and released. Both switches share a similar sound profile, aiming to deliver a deep and low-pitched tone that enhances the overall typing experience.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is described as bouncy, offering a spring-like feedback sensation that adds a lively feel to each key press. In comparison, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch is known for its buttery, creamy, and silky feel, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is effortless and uniform. While the Shadow switch focuses on a bouncy feedback, the Smoothie switch prioritizes a buttery and silky typing sensation.
In conclusion, both the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Shadow switch emphasizes a deep and thocky sound with a bouncy feel, the Smoothie switch provides a thocky sound signature along with a buttery, creamy, and silky typing experience. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, users can choose between the two switches to achieve their desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, consider your preferences and priorities. If you value a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility, a lower actuation and bottom-out force, and a deep and thocky sound profile, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth, thocky sound signature, remarkable smoothness, and a lightweight touch, the Gateron Smoothie could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and what features matter most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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