Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring vs. TKC Tangerine
An in-depth look at the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the TKC Tangerine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two standout options are the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the TKC Tangerine. The Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is a tactile switch that offers a medium level of tactility, making it a great choice for those who prefer a responsive typing experience. With a lower actuation and bottom-out force, this switch provides a satisfying and approachable tactility and also produces a deep and thocky sound profile. On the other hand, the Tangerine is a linear switch that takes typing to the next level with its incredibly smooth feel. The UHWMPE housings contribute to this smoothness, setting it apart from other switches. Typing on the Tangerine switch offers a pleasurable experience, although it does produce a fairly high-pitched clack. While these general pointers can help guide your decision, let's dive in a bit deeper to find the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
48g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the TKC Tangerine switches differ in their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Shadow (Ink) features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound when pressing down on the switch. In contrast, the Tangerine utilizes a UHWMPE top housing, a newer material known for its bright sound signature. When typing on Tangerine switches, the UHWMPE top housing produces resonant clacks, adding to the tactile experience.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Shadow (Ink) incorporates polycarbonate to provide similar sound characteristics to its top housing. The stiffness of polycarbonate in the bottom housing contributes to a clear and resonant sound during the bottom-out action. On the other hand, the Tangerine utilizes a UHWMPE bottom housing, which may offer different sound qualities compared to its top housing. The impact on the bottom-out sound and feel may exhibit unique characteristics due to the properties of UHWMPE as opposed to polycarbonate.
Although both switches have different housing materials for their top and bottom, their similarities lie in the fact that polycarbonate offers a clear and resonant sound profile, while UHWMPE provides a bright sound signature. Both switches aim to enhance the typing experience by delivering engaging and distinct sounds when pressing and releasing keys. Whether it be the sharper, higher-pitched sound of the polycarbonate in the Shadow (Ink) or the resonant clacks produced by the UHWMPE in the Tangerine, both housing materials contribute to the unique sound profiles of these switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, there are a few notable differences. The Shadow (Ink) Single Spring requires a lighter actuation force of 48 grams, while the actuation force of the Tangerine switch is unknown. However, it is worth mentioning that the actuation force for both switches will result in similar results, as they are both within the medium-light range.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch requires 55 grams of force to fully depress the key, offering a medium-light resistance. On the other hand, the Tangerine switch requires a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams, which falls into the medium range.
When considering weight, the preference may vary depending on the user's typing style and preferences. For those who prefer lighter switches, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring would be a suitable choice, allowing for longer typing sessions without too much fatigue. On the contrary, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may opt for the TKC Tangerine switch with its heavier bottom out force.
Overall, while the actuation force of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is known and falls within the medium-light range, the actuation force of the TKC Tangerine switch remains unknown. However, both switches offer a similar resistance level when it comes to actuation. In terms of the bottom out force, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is lighter, whereas the TKC Tangerine switch is slightly heavier. Thus, the choice between the two switches ultimately depends on the individual's preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will feel the same distance of travel. In terms of travel distance, there is no difference between the two switches, providing similar results for users.
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 TKC Tangerine comes in at $6.30 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
In terms of sound, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is best known for its deep and thocky sound profile. This means that when typing on these switches, you can expect a satisfying and solid sound with each keystroke. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine switch is described as having a high-pitched clack when typing on them. This means that the sound produced by these switches will be sharp and crisp. Both switches offer unique sound profiles, so the choice between them would depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is described as being bouncy. This means that the keys have a lively feel and provide a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation. With these switches, you can expect a rebound when pressing the keys. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine switch is described as being frictionless, buttery, and polished. This indicates that these switches offer an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance or friction. The switch travel is fluid, providing a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. The Tangerine switch achieves this smoothness through the use of UHWMPE housings, which is a rarity in the world of bespoke mechanical switches.
In conclusion, both the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch and the TKC Tangerine switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch provides a deep and thocky sound profile with a bouncy feel, while the Tangerine switch produces a high-pitched clack sound with a frictionless, buttery, and polished feel. Depending on your preference for sound and typing experience, either switch can provide a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience. It is important to note that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, both switches offer subjective qualities that can enhance the typing experience, and selecting between them would depend on personal preference.
Conclusion
In summary, 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, it provides a very approachable level of tactility. Additionally, it features a deep and thocky sound profile, which can enhance the overall typing experience. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and effortless typing experience, the TKC Tangerine linear switch is the way to go. These switches offer an incredibly smooth feel due to the UHWMPE housings, which is not commonly found in bespoke mechanical switches. The Tangerine switch also provides a fairly high-pitched clack when typing, which can add a unique element to your keyboard's sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your preference for tactility and typing feel. Consider whether you prioritize a bouncy and tactile typing experience or a frictionless and buttery-smooth feel when deciding between the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and TKC Tangerine switches.
Mentioned in this article
