Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, a tactile switch, to the HMX Swift, a linear switch, it's important to note the key differences to help you make an informed decision. The Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offers a medium level of tactility with a lower actuation and bottom-out force, providing a satisfying tactile experience without being too overwhelming. On the other hand, the HMX Swift stands out for its deep sound profile and silky smoothness, thanks to its full nylon housings and delicate 42g actuation force. While both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the HMX Swift, it is evident that the Shadow (Ink) features polycarbonate top and bottom housings, while the Swift utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings. The use of polycarbonate in the Shadow (Ink) creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, while the nylon in the Swift produces a deeper and fuller sound profile with a duller and rounder tone. This contrast highlights how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of a switch.
Furthermore, the difference in housing materials between the two switches also affects the aesthetic appeal and functionality of the switches. The translucent nature of polycarbonate in the Shadow (Ink) allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visual element to the typing experience. On the other hand, the classic nylon housing of the Swift provides a more traditional look and feel, emphasizing the fullness and depth of the sound profile. These differences in housing materials cater to different preferences and priorities for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
However, despite the differences in housing materials, both the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the HMX Swift aim to provide a high-quality typing experience. While the polycarbonate top and bottom housings of the Shadow (Ink) offer a clear and resonant sound profile, the nylon housing of the Swift absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper tone. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetics, showcasing the diverse range of options available in the mechanical keyboard market.
Weight
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch and the HMX Swift linear switch have notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces. The Shadow (Ink) requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 48 grams compared to the Swift's 42 grams, making the Swift a lighter option. However, both switches have relatively similar bottom out forces, with the Shadow (Ink) at 55 grams and the Swift at 50 grams. This means that while the actuation force differs between the two, they provide a similar level of resistance when fully pressed. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Swift could be a more suitable choice, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) provides a slightly heavier actuation force for those seeking a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is slightly longer than the 3.9 mm travel distance of the HMX Swift linear switch. While both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the Shadow (Ink) being the longer option, the Swift offers a slightly shorter travel distance. Gamers may prefer the Swift for its faster response time due to its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Shadow (Ink). Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and whether you prioritize a shorter or longer travel distance in your typing 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 HMX Swift has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Swift for $2.99.
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, providing a satisfying auditory feedback when typing. On the other hand, the HMX Swift switch is characterized as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that can enhance the overall typing experience, depending on personal preference and the acoustics of the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to feel, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch offers a bouncy sensation, providing a spring-like feedback that enhances the typing experience with a lively feel and rebound when pressed. In contrast, the HMX Swift switch is described as easy-to-press, featuring a feathery touch that requires minimal force to activate. This light actuation force reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions, making it comfortable for various uses such as gaming, school, or work. Additionally, the Swift switch offers a creamy typing experience, characterized by a smooth and buttery sensation that allows for effortless keystrokes.
In conclusion, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch offers a tactile typing experience with a medium level of tactility and a deep sound profile, while the HMX Swift switch provides a linear feel with a lighter actuation force and a bright clacky sound. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles, ultimately enhancing the overall typing experience for users. Depending on whether you prefer a bouncy and tactile feel with a deep sound or an easy-to-press linear feel with a bright clacky sound, you can choose between these two switches to achieve a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, consider your preference for tactility and actuation force. If you prioritize a medium level of tactility with a light bottom out force, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring may be the better choice for you. Its deep and thocky sound profile adds to the typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a light actuation force and a silky smooth typing feel, the HMX Swift linear switch with its full nylon housings and feathery touch could be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for your typing style.
Mentioned in this article
