Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring vs. Gateron Type S
An in-depth look at the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the Gateron Type S switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for a mechanical keyboard switch, you may come across the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, a tactile switch, and the Gateron Type S, a linear switch. The Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is praised for its medium level of tactility and lower actuation and bottom-out force, making it a great choice for those seeking a comfortable typing experience with a deep and thocky sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S stands out for its 65g bottom-out force, providing a weightier keystroke preferred by some users, along with a pleasingly neutral yet deeper sound signature. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
18mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the Gateron Type S both utilize different housing materials for their switches, with the Shadow (Ink) using polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing, while the Type S uses nylon for both. The polycarbonate housing in the Shadow (Ink) creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, while the nylon housing in the Type S elicits a deeper and fuller sound. This difference in housing material leads to a distinct typing experience for users of each switch.
While the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and Type S both offer unique sound profiles due to their housing materials, they share similarities in how their housing materials impact the overall typing experience. The stiffness of polycarbonate in the Shadow (Ink) leads to clear and resonant sound profiles, while the softer nylon of the Type S absorbs more sound, creating a rounder and duller sound. Both switches offer a balance between sound aesthetics and feel, catering to different preferences in typing sound and feedback.
Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the Gateron Type S comes down to personal preference in typing sound and feel. The different housing materials of polycarbonate and nylon each bring their own unique characteristics to the switches, influencing the overall sound profile and typing experience. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound with the Shadow (Ink) or a deeper, fuller sound with the Type S, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience with their distinct housing materials.
Weight
In comparing the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, it is evident that the Shadow (Ink) has a lighter actuation force of 48 grams compared to the Type S's 55 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Shadow (Ink) requires 55 grams while the Type S demands 65 grams, making the Type S the heavier option in this aspect. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their actuation and bottom out forces. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Shadow (Ink) for extended typing or gaming sessions, while those seeking a more robust and substantial typing experience may lean towards the Type S. Ultimately, the choice between these switches lies in individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch is identical, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This makes both switches equally suitable for users who prefer a consistent travel distance in their typing experience. The similarity in travel distance between the two switches ensures that regardless of which one you choose, you can expect similar results in terms of keypress feel and feedback.
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 S 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 Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is known for its deep and thocky sound profile, providing a satisfying acoustic experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S offers a neutral sound signature that strikes a pleasing balance, leaning towards a deeper yet subdued acoustic experience. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring leaning towards a more pronounced and tactile sound, while the Type S provides a more subtle and subdued auditory feedback.
In terms of feel, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is characterized as bouncy, providing a spring-like and lively feel with a medium level of tactility that is approachable and enjoyable to use. Unfortunately, information on the tactile feel of the Gateron Type S is not available at this time. However, based on its 65g bottom-out weight and the contemporary factory lubing techniques used in its production, it can be inferred that the Type S offers a smooth and responsive keystroke experience that enhances overall typing feel.
In conclusion, both the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. While the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring provides a deep and tactile sound profile with a bouncy and lively feel, the Gateron Type S offers a neutral and subdued sound signature with a potentially smooth and responsive typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience, ensuring that you will get similar results in terms of sound and feel with both switches.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when deciding between the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a medium level of tactility with a lower actuation and bottom-out force, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is a great choice for a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a weightier keystroke with a sound signature that leans towards a neutral yet deeper acoustic experience, the Gateron Type S is the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences in terms of tactility, sound profile, and typing feel. Choose the switch that best suits your typing style and preferences for a truly enjoyable typing experience.
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