Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring vs. Wuque Studio WS Jade
An in-depth look at the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the Wuque Studio WS Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the Wuque Studio WS Jade offer distinct features for different preferences. The Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is a tactile switch known for its medium level of tactility, making it ideal for those seeking a tactile typing experience with a lower actuation and bottom-out force. Its deep and thocky sound profile adds to the satisfying typing feel. On the other hand, the WS Jade from Wuque Studio is a linear switch that stands out for its metallic insert in the stem base, creating a bright and resonant sound profile. The switch also features a light diffuser for an enchanting RGB display and offers a creamy and smooth typing experience with a rock-solid bottom-out. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences, but 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
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
UPE
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
18mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the Wuque Studio WS Jade, it is evident that both switches utilize unique materials to create distinct sound profiles. The polycarbonate top housing of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is known for producing a sharper and crisper sound, while the POM top housing of the WS Jade creates a deeper and more muted sound. This contrast in sound profiles can be attributed to the stiffness of polycarbonate versus the characteristics of POM, highlighting the impact of housing material on the overall typing experience.
Moving on to the bottom housings of these switches, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring mirrors the characteristics of its top housing, contributing to a sharp and resonant sound profile. In contrast, the POM bottom housing of the WS Jade continues to produce a deeper and more muted sound, maintaining consistency in sound profile throughout the switch. This demonstrates the level of attention to detail in housing materials used by manufacturers to achieve specific sound qualities in mechanical switches.
Overall, while the housing materials of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the Wuque Studio WS Jade differ in terms of polycarbonate and POM, respectively, both switches are designed to provide unique and pleasing sound profiles. Whether it be the sharp and crisp sound of polycarbonate or the deep and muted sound of POM, users can expect a distinct typing experience based on the housing material chosen for each switch. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel, as both options offer high-quality performance.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch, there are some noticeable differences. The Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has a lighter actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Jade has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a bit more resistance. Both switches fall within the medium range in terms of force, with the WS Jade being slightly heavier overall. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer of the two switches mentioned. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their travel distance, with the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring providing a deeper press compared to the WS Jade. Depending on personal preference, some users may find the shorter travel distance of the WS Jade to be more responsive, while others may prefer the extra depth offered by the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual typing habits and preferences for travel distance.
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 Jade comes in at $4.30 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 known for its deep and thocky sound profile, while the Wuque Studio WS Jade switch is described as clacky, marbly, and resonant. Both switches offer distinct sound experiences, with the Shadow switch providing a more muffled and tactile noise, and the Jade switch delivering a sharp and bright sound. The choice between the two would depend on personal preference for sound characteristics, with the Shadow switch offering a deeper tone and the Jade switch producing a crisper sound.
Moving on to feel, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is praised for its bouncy feel, providing a spring-like feedback sensation. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Jade switch is known for its silky and creamy typing experience, offering exceptionally smooth key presses and releases. While the Shadow switch offers a lively and rebounding feel, the Jade switch delivers a buttery and effortless typing sensation. When it comes to feel, the decision between the two switches would depend on whether one prefers a bouncy and responsive feel or a silky smooth typing experience.
Considering all the available information, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is recommended for those seeking a medium level of tactility and a deep sound profile, along with a bouncy and lively typing feel. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Jade switch is preferred for its metallic insert for a bright sound profile, as well as its silky and creamy typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. Whether you opt for the Aflion Shadow switch or the Wuque Studio Jade switch, you can expect a high-quality mechanical keyboard switch that provides a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are in search of a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility and a deep, thocky sound profile, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is a great choice due to its lower actuation and bottom-out force. However, if you prefer a switch with a bright metallic sound and a creamy, smooth typing experience, the Wuque Studio WS Jade with its unique metallic insert and light diffuser might be more suited to your preferences. Consider the sound and feel descriptions provided for each switch to determine which one aligns better with your typing style and preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct characteristics that can enhance your overall typing experience based on your individual preferences.
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