Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring vs. TTC Venus
An in-depth look at the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the TTC Venus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
In the world of mechanical keyboard switches, there are many options to choose from, each offering their own unique features and characteristics. Two switches that stand out are the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, a tactile switch, and the TTC Venus, a linear switch. The Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is ideal for those seeking a tactile switch with a moderate level of tactility, featuring a lower actuation and bottom-out force for a pleasant typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Venus boasts a smooth and frictionless glide, paired with a distinct "Q-texture" that adds a springy resistance to each keystroke. While the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring provides a deep and thocky sound profile, the TTC Venus offers a muted sound signature for a more subdued auditory experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and typing style, but let's delve deeper into their specific characteristics to help you make an informed decision.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
48g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Lengthened 20.5mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the TTC Venus, a key difference lies in the top housing material. While the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring features a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, the Venus utilizes a POM top housing that produces a deeper and more muted sound. This contrast in sound profiles can significantly impact the user experience and overall feel of the switch, catering to different preferences in typing or gaming.
On the other hand, both the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the TTC Venus share a polycarbonate bottom housing. This material choice in the bottom housing results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, enhancing the overall typing or gaming experience. Despite any differences in the top housings of these switches, the shared polycarbonate bottom housing ensures a similar sound quality and feel when pressing down on the keys.
Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the TTC Venus may come down to personal preference in sound profile. The Shadow (Ink) with its sharp and clear polycarbonate top and bottom housings may appeal to those seeking a more distinct typing experience, while the Venus with its deeper and more muted POM top housing offers a unique sound profile for a softer touch. Understanding how different housing materials contribute to sound profiles can help users make an informed decision based on their preferences and typing style.
Weight
The comparison between the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch and the TTC Venus linear switch reveals that both switches fall into the medium-light category in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Shadow (Ink) Single Spring requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 48 grams compared to the Venus's 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Shadow requires 55 grams while the Venus requires 52 grams. This difference in force may provide a slightly more substantial typing experience with the Shadow compared to the Venus but both switches still offer a relatively light typing experience overall. Ultimately, whether one prefers a lighter or heavier switch will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Venus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. The Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Venus switch. A 0.2 mm may not seem like much of a difference, but it can be noticeable to some users. The Shadow (Ink) Single Spring may provide a slightly deeper keypress feel compared to the Venus switch. However, both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with 4 mm being a common choice for those who prefer a bit more depth in their keypresses. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for keypress depth and the desired level of responsiveness in typing or gaming experiences.
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 TTC Venus has an MSRP of $7.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Venus for $5.09.
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, providing a satisfying auditory experience with each key press. In comparison, the TTC Venus switch is described as having a muted and subdued sound signature, offering a softer and quieter typing experience. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences - the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring for those who enjoy a deeper sound, and the TTC Venus for users seeking a more understated and gentle auditory feedback.
In terms of feel, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is noted for its bouncy feedback, providing a lively and elastic sensation when pressing the keys. On the other hand, the TTC Venus switch is described as offering a buttery and frictionless typing experience, ensuring a smooth and effortless keystroke with minimal resistance. These contrasting feel qualities cater to different preferences - the bouncy feedback of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring for users who enjoy a more dynamic typing experience, and the buttery smoothness of the TTC Venus for those who prefer a seamless and polished feel.
In conclusion, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch and TTC Venus linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch provides a thocky sound profile and bouncy feedback, the TTC Venus switch offers a muted sound signature and buttery smooth typing experience. Both switches excel in different aspects, catering to users with varying preferences in terms of typing sound and feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on individual preferences for sound and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility and a deep thocky sound profile, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a delightful balance of a seamless glide and unique "matte" sensation, the TTC Venus linear switch is the way to go. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to your personal preference for tactility and sound profile. Whether you prefer a bouncy feel with a thocky sound or a buttery smooth typing experience with a muted sound, both switches offer a distinct typing experience for you to enjoy.
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