Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring vs. Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile
An in-depth look at the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to tactile mechanical keyboard switches, two options that stand out are the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile. The Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offers a medium level of tactility, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a tangible typing experience. With its lower actuation and bottom-out force, this switch provides a satisfying feedback without being too overwhelming. Additionally, its deep and thocky sound profile adds a pleasant auditory element to your typing sessions. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile from Wuque Studio presents a remarkable addition to their esteemed WS series. These switches have a pronounced tactile bump with a tactile force of 70g, delivering a satisfying resistance with each keystroke. Moreover, Wuque Studios' nylon housings contribute to a "thocky" resonance, enhancing the overall typing experience. Both switches have their unique characteristics and benefits; 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
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
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
The housing materials of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile have distinct differences that contribute to their sound profiles. The Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and higher-pitched sound. Additionally, due to its translucency, it is ideal for incorporating RGB lighting. In contrast, the WS Heavy Tactile utilizes a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. While both materials enhance the overall sound experience, the polycarbonate housing of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring emphasizes clarity and resonance, while the nylon housing of the WS Heavy Tactile focuses on depth and richness.
Similarly, the bottom housing materials of these switches also differ in their impact on the sound and feel. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring contributes to a sharper and more resonant sound when the key is bottomed out. This stiffer plastic enhances the clarity and precision of the switch's sound profile. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the WS Heavy Tactile creates a softer and more absorbed sound upon bottoming out. The relative softness of nylon allows for a rounder and less pronounced sound profile. Therefore, the bottom housing of each switch influences the bottom-out sound and feel, providing unique tactile experiences to users.
It is worth noting that while the housing materials for both the top and bottom of these switches differ, they share similar characteristics within their respective materials. The use of polycarbonate in both the top and bottom housings of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring results in a consistent, sharp, and resonant sound profile. Similarly, the utilization of nylon in both housing components of the WS Heavy Tactile creates a cohesive, deep, and full sound experience. Despite the differences in housing materials, these switches aim to deliver an enhanced typing or gaming experience, utilizing the unique qualities of their respective housing materials to achieve their intended sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, we can observe several differences. The Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has a slightly lighter actuation force of 48 grams compared to the WS Heavy Tactile's unknown value, which means that the Aflion switch requires a slightly lighter touch to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Aflion switch has a slightly heavier force of 55 grams in comparison to the WS Heavy Tactile's 45 grams, resulting in a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Both switches fall within the range of being considered light to medium-light, but the Aflion switch leans towards the heavier side in terms of bottom out force. Therefore, if weight is a significant factor, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring may be a more suitable option for those seeking a slightly heavier typing experience, while the WS Heavy Tactile would cater to those who prefer a lighter touch for extended periods of typing or gaming.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, we find that the Shadow (Ink) has a longer travel distance of 4.0 mm while the WS Heavy Tactile has a shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. The Shadow (Ink) falls under the category of a more traditional travel distance, offering a depth that some may find satisfying. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile provides a shallower travel distance that is commonly preferred by gamers for its faster response times. So, if you prioritize quick responsiveness, opting for the shorter 3.2 mm travel distance of the WS Heavy Tactile would be a suitable choice. However, if you prefer a more substantial key press, the longer 4.0 mm travel distance of the Shadow (Ink) would be preferable. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on individual preferences regarding the depth and speed of key presses.
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 Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile comes in at $3.50 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
In terms of sound, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is best described as a deep and thocky sound profile. This means that when typing on these switches, you can expect a lower-pitched and more bassy sound, which can provide a satisfying auditory feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch is described as having a clacky, high-pitched, and resonant sound profile. This means that when pressing these switches, you will experience a sharp and snappy sound, with a higher-pitched and clean sound profile. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is known for its bouncy feel. This means that when you press the keys, you will experience a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, with a lively feel and rebound. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch offers a variety of descriptors for its feel, including accented, bouncy, invigorating, sharp, and snappy. This indicates that these switches provide a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle, giving a pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. Overall, both switches offer a satisfying tactile experience, but the WS Heavy Tactile provides a more diverse range of tactile sensations.
Taking all the available information into account, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is recommended for those looking for a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility and an approachable tactility. It offers a deep and thocky sound profile and a bouncy feel. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch is suitable for those seeking a more immersive and engaging typing experience. It offers a pronounced tactile bump, satisfying resistance, and a range of sensations including accented, bouncy, invigorating, sharp, and snappy. Both switches provide a satisfying auditory feedback, with the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring having a lower-pitched sound profile and the WS Heavy Tactile having a clacky, higher-pitched, and resonant sound profile. Depending on personal preferences and typing style, either switch can provide similar results in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To conclude, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility and a deep, thocky sound profile, we highly recommend the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring. With its lower actuation and bottom-out force, it offers a very approachable tactility. However, if you prefer a more pronounced and engaging tactile experience with a satisfying resistance, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch is the way to go. Its tactile bump is profound, and with a tactile force of 70g, each keystroke is imbued with a satisfying resistance. Additionally, if you enjoy a clacky, high-pitched, and resonant sound profile, the WS Heavy Tactile switch delivers. On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy feel, both switches provide that feedback sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to your preference for tactility and sound, with the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offering a more medium level of tactility and a deep sound profile, while the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile delivers a pronounced tactile experience and a clacky, high-pitched sound profile.
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