Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring vs. Gazzew U4T
An in-depth look at the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the Gazzew U4T switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you are in search of a mechanical keyboard switch that offers a satisfying tactile experience, both the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the Gazzew U4T are great options to consider. The Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is renowned for its medium level of tactility, making it ideal for those who prefer a comfortable typing experience. With a lower actuation and bottom-out force, this switch offers a gentle tactile feedback without being too overwhelming. It also boasts a deep and thocky sound profile, adding an auditory component to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T showcases a unique fusion of thockiness and sharp tactility. Its bassy 'thock' sound profile, combined with an assertive tactile feedback, creates a keyboard experience that is both satisfying to the ears and the fingers. The U4T switch is categorized as bassy, thocky, and sharp. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
48g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel 17.5mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the Gazzew U4T differ in their housing materials. The Shadow (Ink) Single Spring features a polycarbonate top housing, while the U4T utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Shadow (Ink) creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Its relatively stiffer plastic also leads to a more clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the Gazzew blend top housing of the U4T, also known as "boba plastic," delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. This means that the Shadow (Ink) will provide a more vibrant and precise sound, while the U4T will offer a deeper and more mellow tone.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Shadow (Ink) features a polycarbonate material whereas the U4T has its own proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing. As with the top housing, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile overall. This stiff plastic enhances the clarity and resonance of the switch's sound. On the other hand, the Gazzew blend bottom housing of the U4T, also referred to as "boba plastic," offers a softer sound due to its unique blend. This creates a more subdued and smooth bottom-out sound and feel. Therefore, if you prefer a switch with a more defined and crisp bottom-out sound, the Shadow (Ink) would be the better choice. However, if you prefer a softer and more gentle sound upon bottoming out, the U4T's Gazzew blend bottom housing would be ideal.
Despite the differences in their housing materials, both switches share certain qualities. The use of polycarbonate, whether in the top or bottom housing, contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, both switches offer a unique and distinct sound experience due to the proprietary blends used in their top and bottom housings. However, the Shadow (Ink) with its polycarbonate housing will provide a more resonant and vibrant sound, while the U4T with its proprietary Gazzew blend housing will offer a rich and deep tonality. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired sound profile for your keyboard.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, there are a few notable differences. The Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has an actuation force of 48 grams, while the U4T's actuation force is unknown. In terms of bottom out force, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring requires 55 grams, whereas the U4T has a bottom out force of 62 grams. This makes the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring a lighter option in terms of both actuation and bottom out force.
Considering weight, some users prefer a lighter switch to allow for longer typing sessions without fatigue, making it suitable for work or extended gaming. In this regard, the lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring might be a more desirable choice for those individuals. On the other hand, some users prefer a heavier actuation and bottom out force to provide a more substantial typing experience. Unfortunately, the exact actuation force of the U4T is unknown, so a direct comparison cannot be made. However, the bottom out force of the U4T is higher than that of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, indicating a slightly heavier typing experience.
In summary, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring stands as a lighter option with its known actuation and bottom out forces. The Gazzew U4T, though lacking the known actuation force, features a slightly heavier bottom out force. Depending on the preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience, individuals can choose either switch accordingly to achieve their desired results.
Travel distance
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches provide a consistent and satisfying keypress experience with a noticeable travel distance that is comfortable for typing. The 4 mm travel distance ensures that users will feel a substantial tactile feedback when pressing down on the keys, enhancing their typing experience and reducing the chance of accidental presses. Whether using the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring or the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, users can expect to achieve similar results in terms of the distance they feel when pressing down on a key, making both switches great options for those seeking a tactile and precise 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 Gazzew U4T comes in at $6.50 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 switch is known for its deep and thocky sound profile. This means that each keypress produces a satisfying and resonant sound, similar to a deep "thud" or a soft "knock." On the other hand, the U4T switch offers a bassy 'thock' sound profile paired with assertive tactile feedback. This means that not only will you get a deep and rich sound when pressing the keys, but you'll also feel a satisfying tactile response with each keystroke. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is described as bouncy. This means that when you press the keys, you'll experience a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation. The keys have a lively feel, providing a sense of rebound when pressed. On the other hand, the U4T switch is known for its sharp tactility. This means that it offers a high feedback intensity, with a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be felt distinctly with each keypress. This sharp feedback adds to the overall tactile satisfaction when using the switch.
In conclusion, both the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the Gazzew U4T switches offer unique subjective qualities. The Shadow (Ink) Single Spring provides a medium level of tactility, approachable tactility, and a deep and thocky sound profile. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T offers sharp tactility, a bassy 'thock' sound profile, and assertive tactile feedback. While they have different qualities, both switches aim to provide an enjoyable typing experience. Choosing between them would depend on personal preference in terms of sound and feel. However, it's important to note that individual preferences may vary and the sound and feel can also be influenced by other factors. Overall, if you enjoy a deeper and richer sound profile with a medium level of tactility, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch would be a great choice. If you prefer a sharper tactile bump and a bassy 'thock' sound profile, then the Gazzew U4T switch would suit your preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility, we highly recommend the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring variant. With its lower actuation and bottom-out force, it offers a very approachable and satisfying tactility. Additionally, it features a deep and thocky sound profile, providing an enjoyable auditory experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that combines a bassy thock sound profile with sharp tactile feedback, the Gazzew U4T is the way to go. Its assertive tactile bump and bassy thock sound make every keystroke both satisfying and enjoyable. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of tactility and sound. Whether you prefer a medium-light switch with approachable tactility or a sharper tactile bump with a bassy thock sound, both the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and Gazzew U4T have their unique qualities to offer.
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