Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring vs. Everglide Sunset Yellow

Overview

If you're in the market for a mechanical keyboard switch, you may have come across two intriguing options: the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, a tactile switch, and the Everglide Sunset Yellow, a linear switch. The Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is highly recommended for those seeking a medium level of tactility. With a lower actuation and bottom-out force, it offers a comfortable and approachable tactile experience. Additionally, it produces a deep and thocky sound profile, adding to the overall typing satisfaction. On the other hand, the Sunset Yellow switches are best known for their captivating sound profile, reminiscent of the sound of mahjong tiles colliding. These cream-colored switches provide a rich, bassy, and decadent typing experience. They are suitable for a wide range of users due to their medium weight. The POM stem and proprietary factory lube method contribute to a distinct gliding feel, while the combination of short travel and long-pole stem ensures a highly responsive typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.

By the numbers

Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring Tactile

Everglide Sunset Yellow Linear

$4.50

$3.57 per 10

$3.09 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the Everglide Sunset Yellow switches differ in terms of their sound profiles and aesthetics. The Shadow (Ink) features a polycarbonate top housing which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, resulting in a clearer and more resonant sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. In contrast, the Sunset Yellow switch utilizes a POM top housing, providing a deeper and relatively more muted sound. The unique sound profile offered by POM housing creates an incredibly pleasing auditory experience.

Moving on to the bottom housings, the Shadow (Ink) boasts a polycarbonate bottom housing, similar to its top housing. This material choice also enhances the sound profile, producing a sharper and crisper sound when pressing down on the switch. The translucency of polycarbonate in the bottom housing also contributes to its aesthetic appeal, especially when paired with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Everglide Sunset Yellow adopts a POM bottom housing. This material imparts a deeper sound profile, resulting in a more muted auditory experience when bottoming out the keys. The POM bottom housing adds to the switch's uniqueness and provides a different feel compared to the Shadow (Ink) switch.

In terms of functionality, the qualities of the housing materials are split between the top and bottom of the switch. When depressing a key, the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, influencing the overall tactile feedback. Conversely, the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound generated when releasing the key. Despite these different housing materials, both switches offer unique sound profiles and bring their own aesthetic appeal. Whether you prefer the sharper and crisper sound of the polycarbonate housing or the deeper and more pleasing sound of the POM housing, both switches deliver satisfying typing experiences.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch and the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. In terms of weight, both switches can be considered medium-light. The Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, while the Sunset Yellow has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 51 grams.

If you prefer a lighter typing experience, both switches offer similar results, with the Sunset Yellow being slightly lighter in terms of actuation force. This lighter weight can be beneficial for extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions, as it reduces the strain on your fingers.

However, if you prefer a more substantial and tactile typing experience, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring may be the better option for you. With its slightly heavier actuation force and bottom out force, it provides a stronger push feel that some users find more satisfying. This can be particularly appealing for those who prefer a more pronounced feedback when typing.

Overall, the choice between these switches ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. Both offer a medium-light weight, but the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring provides a slightly heavier and more tactile experience compared to the Sunset Yellow.

Travel distance

The travel distance of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is 4.0mm, while the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2mm. This means that the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has a slightly longer travel distance than the Sunset Yellow.

The 4.0mm travel distance of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring falls into the more traditional range, providing a satisfying depth when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the 3.2mm travel distance of the Sunset Yellow is slightly shallower, which some people might find more appealing for faster response times, especially in gaming scenarios.

Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for quicker key presses and improved reaction times. If you prioritize responsiveness and swift actions, the Sunset Yellow with its shorter travel distance would be a suitable choice. However, some individuals find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt and prefer a deeper keystroke. In such cases, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring with its longer travel distance would provide a more satisfying tactile experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is known for its deep and thocky sound profile, which provides a satisfying and resonant sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Sunset Yellow switch is described as bassy, offering a rich and decadent sound reminiscent of mahjong tiles colliding. Both switches provide unique and enjoyable sound experiences during typing, although the specific sound produced can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.

When it comes to feel, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation that adds a lively feel to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Sunset Yellow switch is described as creamy, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience. This sensation is achieved through factory lubrication or specific materials used in the switch, resulting in a silky and effortless gliding sensation as you type. Additionally, the Sunset Yellow switch is also described as frictionless and polished, further enhancing the smoothness and refined feel during use. Both switches provide distinct and enjoyable tactile experiences.

In conclusion, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch and the Sunset Yellow switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Shadow switch is known for its deep and thocky sound profile, as well as its bouncy feel, providing a satisfying and spring-like feedback sensation. On the other hand, the Sunset Yellow switch offers a rich and bassy sound, along with a creamy, frictionless, and polished feel, resulting in a smooth and effortless typing experience. Depending on personal preferences, either switch can provide a delightful typing experience. Keep in mind that the final sound and feel can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.

Conclusion

To wrap up, 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, you will find a very approachable tactility when using them. Additionally, the deep and thocky sound profile adds to the typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a captivating sound profile reminiscent of mahjong tiles colliding, the Everglide Sunset Yellow switch is a great choice. Its rich, bassy, and decadent sound makes typing an indulgent experience. The unique POM stem and proprietary factory lube method contribute to a distinct gliding feel, while the combination of very short travel and a long-pole stem ensures a sharper and highly responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches boils down to whether you prioritize the tactile feedback and deep thocky sound of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring or the captivating sound profile and distinct gliding feel of the Sunset Yellow.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring Tactile

$4.50

$3.57 per 10

Learn more

Everglide Sunset Yellow Linear

$3.09 per 10

Learn more