Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in search of a mechanical keyboard switch that offers a satisfying tactile experience, two options come to mind - the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the SP-Star Duck switches. The Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is renowned for its medium level of tactility, making it a popular choice for those who want a switch with a noticeable tactile feedback. With a lower actuation and bottom-out force, these switches provide a comfortable typing experience while emitting a deep and thocky sound profile. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck switches offer a more subtle tactile typing experience. The tactility on these switches is gentle, allowing for a smoother and quieter typing experience. The sound profile is clean and crispy, contributing to an overall pleasant typing sensation. However, let's delve further beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision about the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
48g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the SP-Star Duck both utilize polycarbonate material for their top and bottom housings. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced when typing, offering a satisfying auditory experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the integration of RGB lighting, making it ideal for users who wish to customize the visual aesthetic of their keyboards.
Although both switches share similar housing materials, it is important to note that the specific design and structure of the top and bottom housings can influence the overall typing experience. For instance, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's top housing may have a different shape or configuration than that of the SP-Star Duck, resulting in slight variations in sound and feel. When pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the bottom housing become apparent, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing plays a significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, while the housing materials are the same, the design nuances of each switch may lead to subtle differences in the typing experience.
Despite these potential variances, both the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the SP-Star Duck can provide similar results due to their shared use of polycarbonate housing material. Both switches offer a crisp and resonant sound profile, enhanced by the stiffness of polycarbonate. Furthermore, users can enjoy the benefits of RGB lighting integration thanks to the translucency of the polycarbonate top housing. Whether it is the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring or the SP-Star Duck, typists can expect a satisfying auditory experience and the opportunity to personalize their keyboards visually.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, it is clear that both switches offer a medium-level typing experience. The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch has an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, providing a medium-light feel. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch has an unknown actuation force, but a bottom out force of 58 grams, placing it within the medium range.
In terms of weight, some users may prefer a lighter switch to enable longer typing sessions, making it ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. For those seeking a more pronounced and substantial typing experience, a heavier actuation force would be preferred. However, both the Aflion Shadow (Ink) and the SP-Star Duck switches offer similar results in terms of actuation force, as they both fall within the medium range.
While the actuation force of the SP-Star Duck switch is unknown, the bottom out force of 58 grams suggests a slightly heavier typing experience compared to the Aflion Shadow (Ink) switch, which has a bottom out force of 55 grams. Therefore, in terms of weight, the SP-Star Duck switch can be considered slightly heavier than the Aflion Shadow (Ink) switch. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience, whether it be a lighter or more substantial feel.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a tactile switch is an important factor to consider when selecting a keyboard switch. In the case of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the SP-Star Duck tactile switches, both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key, you will experience the same amount of travel distance for both switches. This similarity ensures that you will get consistent results in terms of the distance you feel when typing or gaming. Whether you choose the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring or the Duck, you can expect to have a comfortable typing experience with a 4 mm travel distance.
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 SP-Star Duck has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Duck for $5.40.
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 known for its deep and thocky sound profile, while the SP-Star Duck switch has a clean and crispy sound profile. The Shadow switch provides a more distinct and satisfying sound, while the Duck switch offers a more neutral and versatile sound suitable for various purposes. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation. This gives the keys a lively feel and allows for rebound when pressed. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck switch offers a mild typing experience with a safe and approachable middle-ground feel. It is described as buttery, implying a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, as well as polished, indicating a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Duck switch aims to provide a gentle and comfortable typing experience suitable for most users.
Overall, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility and a deep thocky sound profile, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch would be recommended. It offers a bouncy feel with a lively rebound sensation. However, if you prefer a more subtle tactile typing experience with a clean and crispy sound profile, the SP-Star Duck switch would be the better choice. It provides a mild and approachable feel, with a smooth and effortless keystroke experience. Both switches have their own unique qualities and cater to different preferences, so it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. Regardless of which switch you choose, you can expect a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, 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 a lower actuation and bottom-out force, it offers a very approachable tactility when typing. Additionally, it features a deep and thocky sound profile, which adds to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle tactile typing experience, the SP-Star Duck switches would be a great choice. They provide a gentle tactility and have a clean and crispy sound profile. Overall, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch offers a bouncy feel, providing a spring-like feedback sensation, while the Duck switches offer a mild, buttery, and polished feel, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on your preference for tactility and sound, but both options are suitable for various needs and typing styles.
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