Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring vs. Jerrzi Violet
An in-depth look at the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the Jerrzi Violet switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the Jerrzi Violet mechanical keyboard switches, we can see that they both fall under the tactile category but offer different characteristics to suit varying preferences. The Shadow (Ink) Single Spring boasts a medium level of tactility with a lower actuation and bottom-out force, providing a comfortable typing experience with a deep and thocky sound profile. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet switches are known for their gentle tactile feedback, smooth actuation, and poppy tactility, giving users a balanced and enjoyable typing sensation with a neutral sound signature. Both switches have their unique qualities that appeal to different users, but it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Yes
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
Both the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the Jerrzi Violet feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiff plastic that resonates well, providing a clear sound experience. Additionally, its translucency makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal of the keyboard. On the other hand, the Violet's nylon bottom housing offers a different typing experience, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. The combination of polycarbonate and nylon housings in the Violet allows for a unique blend of sound qualities when typing on the switch.
In terms of aesthetics, both the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the Violet feature clear housing materials, making them visually appealing choices for keyboards with RGB lighting. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches ensures a consistent and vibrant lighting effect that complements the overall design of the keyboard. However, the Violet stands out with its nylon bottom housing, adding a touch of uniqueness to the typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. This contrast in housing materials between the two switches highlights the different sound characteristics they offer, catering to individual preferences for typing feel and sound.
While the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the Jerrzi Violet share similarities in their polycarbonate top housing, their differences in bottom housing materials result in distinct typing experiences. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing of the Violet offers a deeper and fuller sound when typing on the switch. This split in housing materials affects the sound and feel of the switches, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing influencing the sound when releasing a key. Overall, the choice between these switches depends on personal preferences for sound profiles, typing feel, and aesthetic considerations when customizing a keyboard setup.
Weight
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch both offer a different typing experience when it comes to actuation and bottom out forces. The Shadow (Ink) has a slightly heavier actuation force of 48 grams compared to the Violet's 45 grams. However, the bottom out force for the Shadow (Ink) is 55 grams, while this information is unknown for the Violet. This means that the Shadow (Ink) provides a medium-light typing experience, while the Violet's bottom out force remains a mystery. When it comes to weight, some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Violet for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may enjoy the more substantial typing experience offered by the slightly heavier Shadow (Ink). Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces in their typing experience.
Travel distance
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. This makes the Shadow (Ink) slightly longer in travel distance compared to the Violet. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the Violet being on the shallower end. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Violet with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Shadow (Ink) with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Jerrzi Violet has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet for $2.30.
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 while typing. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet switch offers a neutral sound signature, which is suitable for various typing environments due to its moderate actuation force requirement and sound profile. Both switches offer pleasant sound profiles, with the Shadow (Ink) leaning towards a deeper tone and the Violet providing a more balanced and versatile sound.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like and lively feedback sensation that enhances the typing experience. On the contrary, the Jerrzi Violet switch is characterized as stepped, offering a more subtle tactile response with distinct pre-travel and post-travel stages. While the Shadow (Ink) switch offers a more pronounced and energetic feel, the Violet switch provides a gentler and more gradual tactile experience. Depending on personal preference, users may prefer the bounciness of the Shadow (Ink) or the stepped feel of the Violet.
In conclusion, both the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and Jerrzi Violet switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Shadow (Ink) switch presents a deeper and more tactile sound profile with a bouncy feedback sensation, while the Violet switch provides a neutral sound signature and a stepped tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, tactility, and typing experience. Whether opting for the bouncy and thocky characteristics of the Shadow (Ink) or the gentle and versatile feel of the Violet, users can expect a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience with either switch.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch, consider your preference for tactility and sound. If you are seeking a medium level of tactility with a deep and thocky sound profile, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer smooth actuation with a poppy tactility and a neutral sound signature, the Violet switch could be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and what type of typing experience you are looking for.
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