Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the Jwick Taro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you are in the market for a tactile mechanical keyboard switch, you may want to consider the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the Jwick Taro. The Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is known for its medium level of tactility and approachable feel, with a lower actuation and bottom-out force. It also boasts a deep and thocky sound profile, adding to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Taro offers a cozy typing experience with its snappy, medium-level tactility. It produces acute and crisp clacks while delivering a comfortable and subdued color scheme. Both switches have their own unique characteristics and benefits. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
No
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and Jwick Taro switches have some similarities and differences. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The clear and translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it suitable for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. However, the Taro switch also features a polycarbonate top housing, so users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch also utilizes polycarbonate. This choice of material contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile, similar to the characteristics found in the top housing. On the other hand, the Taro switch incorporates a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This difference in material creates a contrast between the switches, with the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offering a more consistent sound experience throughout the keystroke, while the Taro provides a duller and rounder sound during bottom-out.
When comparing the two switches, it is important to note that the qualities of the top and bottom housings are split between the two. Pressing down on either switch will reveal the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will have a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key. This distinction suggests that the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch, with polycarbonate used in both top and bottom housings, might provide a more consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel. Meanwhile, the Taro switch's combination of polycarbonate and nylon creates a balance between sharpness and roundness in its sound profile.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, it is evident that they have distinct characteristics. The Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch has an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, placing it in the medium-light category. On the other hand, the Taro switch's actuation force remains unknown, but its bottom out force is 67 grams, making it medium-heavy.
Considering weight, it is worth mentioning that individuals may have different preferences. Some may appreciate a lighter actuation and bottom out force, as it allows for longer typing sessions without causing excessive strain. This lighter option could be ideal for those who bring their keyboards to work or engage in extended gaming sessions. However, others may desire a more substantial typing experience, with a stronger push feel. For them, switches with heavier forces would be a better choice.
While the actuation force of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is lighter compared to the Jwick Taro's bottom out force, it is important to note that the actuation force of the Taro switch is not provided. Therefore, it is difficult to make a direct comparison. However, based on the available information, it can be concluded that the bottom out force of the Taro switch is heavier than that of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch.
In summary, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch provides a medium-light actuation and bottom out force, whereas the Jwick Taro switch offers a medium-heavy bottom out force. When it comes to weight preference, the lighter force of the Shadow (Ink) switch provides a longer typing endurance, while the heavier force of the Taro switch caters to those seeking a more robust typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is 4 mm, while the Jwick Taro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the Shadow (Ink) being slightly longer. Many people prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times, particularly gamers. In this case, the Taro switch would be the preferred choice. However, for those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key, the longer travel distance of the Shadow (Ink) switch may be more appealing. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and whether one values responsiveness or depth in their 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 Jwick Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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 Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is best known for its deep and thocky sound profile. It provides a satisfying auditory experience while typing. On the other hand, the Taro switch is described as having a neutral sound profile with moderate acuation and sound. The Taro switch offers a crisp and acute clacking sound when pressed. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also affected by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is known for its bouncy feel. The keys have a lively and spring-like feedback sensation, providing a sense of rebound when pressed. On the contrary, the Taro switch is described as having a buttery feel. This indicates a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, with a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Additionally, the Taro switch is considered to be a stepped switch, meaning that it has two stages of tactility. While the tactility is more mild compared to a hypertactile switch, you can still feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel.
In conclusion, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch offers a medium level of tactility with approachable tactility and a deep thocky sound profile. It has a bouncy feel, providing a spring-like feedback sensation. On the other hand, the Taro switch offers a comfortable typing experience with medium-level tactility and acute, crisp clacks. It has a buttery feel and falls under the category of a stepped switch. If you are looking for a tactile switch with similar qualities, both options provide satisfying results, with the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch offering a slightly deeper sound profile and more pronounced tactility compared to the Taro switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility and a lower actuation and bottom-out force, we highly recommend the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches. These switches offer a very approachable tactility and have a deep, thocky sound profile. They also provide a bouncy feel, giving you a lively sensation when typing.
On the other hand, if you prefer a snappy, medium-level of tactility and enjoy acute and crisp clacks, the Taro switches would be a great choice. With a slightly higher bottom-out force, these switches offer a cozy typing experience and have a buttery smooth and fluid keystroke. Additionally, they have a stepped feel, providing a mild sensation with some pre-travel and/or post-travel.
Ultimately, the decision between the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and Taro switches depends on your personal preferences regarding tactility, sound, and feel. If you prefer a softer and more approachable tactile experience with a lively feel and deep sound, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches would be ideal. On the other hand, if you prefer a snappier and crisper tactile experience with a smooth and fluid keystroke and crisp clacks, the Taro switches would be a better fit. Both switches offer unique features and can enhance your typing experience based on your individual preferences.
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