Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring vs. Jwick Splash Brothers
An in-depth look at the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the Jwick Splash Brothers switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two options that stand out are the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the Jwick Splash Brothers. The Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility, making it a popular choice for those seeking a satisfying typing experience. With its lower actuation and bottom-out force, this variant of Aflion's Shadow switch offers an approachable tactility, coupled with a deep and thocky sound profile. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers are linear switches known for their speed and performance. Similar to the renowned basketball duo Steph and Klay, these switches offer a shorter activation and a long pole stem, resulting in a fantastic typing experience. Additionally, the Splash Brothers switches emit a creamy sound signature that adds to the overall satisfaction of using them. Both switches offer their own unique qualities, providing users with a range of choices based on their preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
48g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Extended long spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the Jwick Splash Brothers both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Whether you prefer the Shadow (Ink) or the Splash Brothers, you can expect similar auditory experiences due to the shared use of polycarbonate in the top housing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that feature RGB lighting, allowing for vibrant and visually appealing effects.
While the top housings of these switches share similarities, their bottom housings differ. The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to its overall sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate results in a clear and resonant sound, enhancing the typing experience. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers utilize a nylon bottom housing. This classic switch housing material offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, if you prioritize a switch with a more pronounced bottom-out sound, the Shadow (Ink) would be a good choice. However, if you prefer a switch with a deeper and fuller sound when typing, the Splash Brothers would be more suitable.
It's important to note that the top and bottom housings of a switch have distinctive effects. When pressing down on a switch, you will feel the impact and experience the sound qualities of the bottom housing. Therefore, the bottom-out sound and typing feel will be more influenced by the characteristics of the bottom housing. On the other hand, the sound when releasing a key is primarily influenced by the top housing. Understanding this distinction allows users to select a switch that aligns with their preferences and desired sound experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, there are distinct differences to consider. The Shadow (Ink) Single Spring requires an actuation force of 48 grams, while the actuation force of the Splash Brothers is unknown. This indicates that the Shadow switch requires a slightly lighter touch to trigger a keystroke. However, both switches have a bottom out force of 48 grams, meaning they offer a similar experience when pressing the keys all the way down. Despite this similarity, it is important to note that the Shadow switch has a higher bottom out force of 55 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. In terms of weight, the Shadow switch is slightly heavier due to its higher bottom out force. Overall, individuals looking for a lighter typing experience over longer periods may prefer the Splash Brothers, while those seeking a more substantial feel may opt for the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, we can see that the Shadow (Ink) has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Splash Brothers has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The 4.0mm distance of the Shadow (Ink) switch falls into the more traditional range for travel distances, while the 3.5 mm distance of the Splash Brothers is considered shallow in comparison. Gamers, who prioritize faster response times, often prefer shorter travel distances like the Splash Brothers. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial feel may lean towards the Shadow (Ink) switch with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences and the desired level of responsiveness.
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 Jwick Splash Brothers comes in at $2.49 per 10 switches.
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
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is best known for its deep and thocky sound profile. When typing with these switches, users will experience a satisfying and resonant sound, which adds to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch is described as having a creamy sound signature. While the exact details of this sound profile are unknown, it suggests a smoother and slightly mellow sound compared to the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is described as bouncy. This means that the keys have a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, providing a lively feel and rebound when pressed. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers has multiple descriptors for its feel. It is described as mild, snappy, bouncy, subtle, and polished. The combination of these qualities suggests that the Splash Brothers switch can offer a gentle and responsive typing experience. It has a moderate resistance, providing a comfortable feel for most users, while also being snappy and responsive due to its longer or dual-staged springs. The bouncy and subtle qualities further contribute to a lively and smooth keypress.
Overall, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch stands out for its deep and thocky sound profile, as well as its bouncy feel. It offers a medium level of tactility, making it approachable for users seeking a tactile switch. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch provides a creamy sound signature and a versatile range of qualities for its feel - mild, snappy, bouncy, subtle, and polished. This switch is suitable for most intents and purposes, offering a comfortable and responsive typing experience. While the exact sound and feel of the Jwick Splash Brothers may differ from the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, both switches provide enjoyable and quality options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In concluding, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility and a deep, thocky sound profile, we highly recommend the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring. With its lower actuation and bottom-out force, it offers an approachable tactility that is suitable for both beginners and advanced users. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch with a creamy sound signature and a more gentle typing experience, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch is a great choice. Its shorter activation combined with its long pole stem provides a satisfying typing feel, and its mild and snappy characteristics make it suitable for a wide range of applications. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences and the specific typing experience you are looking for.
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