Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring vs. Dareu Snow
An in-depth look at the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the Dareu Snow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the Aflion Shadow Ink Single Spring, a tactile switch, and the Dareu Snow, a linear switch. The Shadow Ink Single Spring is preferred for its medium level of tactility and lower actuation and bottom-out force, making it approachable to use. Known for its deep and thocky sound profile, it is categorized as bouncy. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow is admired for its innovative use of POK material in both the top housing and stem, resulting in a smoother typing experience with a deeper sound signature. Categorized as thocky, neutral, low-pitched, and bouncy, the Dareu Snow offers a unique typing feel. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
POK
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the Dareu Snow both incorporate unique housing materials in their switches. The Shadow (Ink) Single Spring features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Snow utilizes a POK top housing, which is praised for its smoothness and durability. While the polycarbonate material provides a clear and resonant sound, the POK material contributes to a smooth and clacky typing experience. Despite their differences, both materials offer distinct advantages in terms of sound quality and durability.
In terms of the bottom housing material, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring uses polycarbonate, which again emphasizes a sharp and crisp sound profile. In contrast, the Snow utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon allows for more sound absorption, leading to a rounder and duller sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate material. These differences in bottom housing materials demonstrate how the choice of material can affect the overall sound and feel of a switch.
While the housing materials of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the Dareu Snow differ in terms of polycarbonate and POK, as well as polycarbonate and nylon, respectively, they both aim to enhance the typing experience in their own ways. The top housing material plays a significant role in the sound when pressing and releasing a key, while the bottom housing material influences the bottom-out sound and feel. Ultimately, whether you prefer the sharper, more resonant sound of polycarbonate or the smoother, clackier sound of POK, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch both have relatively similar actuation forces, with the Shadow requiring 48 grams and the Snow needing 50 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Shadow is lighter at 55 grams compared to the Snow's 60 grams. This means that the Shadow provides a slightly lighter typing experience overall. Both switches fall into the medium-light to medium category, making them suitable for users who prefer a balance between ease of typing and tactile feedback. Those who are looking for a slightly lighter touch may lean towards the Shadow, while individuals who prefer a bit more resistance may opt for the Snow. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is 4 mm, while the Dareu Snow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that the Shadow switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Snow switch. The Shadow switch's 4 mm distance provides a more traditional keypress feel, while the Snow switch's 3.3 mm distance offers a slightly shallower keypress experience. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Snow switch, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Shadow switch. In general, the difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be significant for most users, so both switches would likely provide similar results in terms of typing or gaming experience.
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 Dareu Snow has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Snow for $5.76.
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 tactile switch is known for its deep and thocky sound profile, providing a satisfying auditory experience while typing. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow linear switch offers a unique sound signature with a deeper tone due to the use of POK material in both the top housing and stem, creating a distinct typing experience. Both switches aim to provide a pleasant sound profile, but the Shadow (Ink) leans towards a thocky sound, while the Snow offers a neutral sound with low-pitched characteristics.
Moving on to feel, both the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch are described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation that gives the keys a lively feel with rebound when pressed. This tactile feedback enhances the typing experience for users who prefer a more responsive and tactile feel when typing. The bouncy nature of both switches adds an element of dynamism to each keystroke, contributing to an overall satisfying typing experience.
In conclusion, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Shadow (Ink) provides a deep and thocky sound profile with an approachable tactility, the Snow stands out with its innovative use of POK material for a deeper sound signature and smooth linear feel. Both switches offer a bouncy tactile feedback that enhances the typing experience, making them suitable choices for users seeking a responsive and dynamic typing experience. Ultimately, both switches provide a high-quality typing experience, ensuring that users will get similar results in terms of performance and satisfaction.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility and a deep sound profile, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is a great choice. Its lower actuation and bottom-out force make it approachable and enjoyable to use. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth linear switch with a deep sound signature and neutral feel, the Dareu Snow switch, with its innovative use of POK material, might be the perfect fit for you. Both switches offer unique features and it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. Ultimately, whether you choose the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring or the Snow switch, you can expect a satisfying typing experience tailored to your preferences. Choose wisely based on what suits your needs best.
Mentioned in this article
