Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring vs. Gateron Type L
An in-depth look at the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the Gateron Type L switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch to the Gateron Type L linear switch, it is clear that both offer unique benefits to the user. The Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is perfect for those seeking a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility, providing a satisfying typing experience with a lower actuation and bottom-out force. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L is known for its light touch and smooth linear action, combined with a sound profile that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum. While the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offers a bouncy feel and deep thocky sound, the Type L provides a neutral, subdued, and feathery typing experience. 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
38g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
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
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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the Gateron Type L, it is evident that both switches have different top and bottom housing materials. The Shadow (Ink) Single Spring features a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharp, high-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Type L utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound. While the polycarbonate top housing offers a more resonant sound, the nylon top housing provides a more absorbent and round sound quality. Despite these differences, both housing materials are designed to enhance the overall sound profile of the switches.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and Gateron Type L also differ in this aspect. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring contributes to the switch's sharp and clear sound profile. In contrast, the nylon bottom housing of the Type L adds to the switch's deeper and fuller sound quality. Just like with the top housing materials, the bottom housing materials serve to influence the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches. The softer nylon material absorbs more sound, creating a duller sound profile compared to the stiffer polycarbonate material.
Overall, the choice between the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the Gateron Type L comes down to personal preference in sound profile. The polycarbonate housing of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offers a sharper and more resonant sound, while the nylon housing of the Type L provides a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches are meticulously designed to enhance the typing experience, with the top and bottom housing materials playing a significant role in shaping the sound profile. Whether you prefer a crisp and clear sound or a deeper and fuller sound, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, it is evident that the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has a slightly heavier actuation force of 48 grams compared to the Type L's 38 grams, making it a bit more substantial to press. In terms of bottom out force, the Shadow (Ink) requires 55 grams compared to the Type L's 45 grams, indicating that the Shadow (Ink) provides a slightly firmer typing experience overall. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Gateron Type L due to its lighter actuation and bottom out forces, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, those looking for a more robust feel may lean towards the Aflion Shadow (Ink) for a more substantial typing experience. Overall, the choice between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of key travel when using either of these switches. The 4 mm travel distance provides a satisfying tactile feedback for the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch while also offering smooth keypresses for the Type L switch. Both switches are well-suited for typing enthusiasts who prefer a moderate amount of key travel.
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 Gateron Type L comes in at $4.70 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
When it comes to sound, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is known for its deep and thocky sound profile, providing a satisfying auditory experience during use. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L switch offers a more subdued sound, producing a dampened sound when pressed for a more subtle acoustic experience. Depending on your preference, the Shadow switch may offer a more pronounced and distinctive sound compared to the more neutral and subdued sound of the Type L switch.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch has been described as bouncy, providing a spring-like and lively sensation when pressed for a tactile typing experience. Conversely, the Gateron Type L switch offers a feathery and easy-to-press feel, requiring minimal exertion from your fingers for a comfortable typing experience. The light actuation force of the Type L switch reduces finger fatigue, making it suitable for extended typing sessions for various purposes.
Overall, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch and the Gateron Type L switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Shadow switch provides a tactile typing experience with a deep sound profile, while the Type L switch focuses on offering a light and easy-to-press feel with a more subdued sound. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, but each caters to different preferences in terms of auditory and tactile feedback. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on the individual's preference for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility and a slightly bouncy feel, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch would be a great choice for you. It offers a lower actuation and bottom-out force, making it approachable and comfortable for typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch with a feathery feel and easy-to-press keys, the Gateron Type L linear switch would be more suitable for you. It requires minimal force to activate, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to your preference for tactility and actuation force. Consider your typing style and comfort level when making your decision.
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