Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring vs. Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is ideal for those seeking a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility, providing a bouncy feel with lower actuation and bottom-out force. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile is known for its smoothness, snappy tactile bump, and neutral sound signature, making it easy to press. Each switch has its own strengths and qualities that make them suitable for different typing experiences. 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
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
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
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
15.4mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The key difference between the housing materials of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile lies in their bottom housings. While the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring uses a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile, the WS Light Tactile utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate in the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's bottom housing leads to a more resonant sound, whereas the softer nylon material in the WS Light Tactile absorbs more sound, creating a rounder tone.
In contrast, both the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the WS Light Tactile feature polycarbonate top housings. This material choice enhances the sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in both switches. The translucency of polycarbonate is particularly advantageous for switches with RGB lighting, as it allows light to shine through, adding to the aesthetic appeal of the switches. Therefore, users can expect similar sound characteristics and visual effects from the top housings of both switches.
Overall, the housing materials of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile offer distinct sound profiles due to the differences in their bottom housings. While the polycarbonate bottom housing in the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring creates a clear and resonant sound, the nylon bottom housing in the WS Light Tactile produces a deeper and fuller tone. However, both switches share similar characteristics in their polycarbonate top housings, resulting in a sharp and crisp sound profile. It is important to consider these material differences when selecting a switch based on sound preferences and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch, one notable difference is in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has a slightly heavier actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, providing a medium-light typing experience. In contrast, the WS Light Tactile offers a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option overall. This means that the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring will require a bit more pressure to initiate a keystroke compared to the WS Light Tactile. Depending on personal preference, some users may prefer the lighter feel of the WS Light Tactile for extended typing sessions, while others may opt for the slightly heavier actuation of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and the desired feel during use.
Travel distance
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will feel the key travel a distance of 4 mm from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent tactile feedback experience with the same travel distance, allowing for similar results in terms of key press feel. There is no difference in the travel distance between the two switches.
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 Light Tactile comes in at $4.20 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 Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is known for its deep and thocky sound profile, providing a satisfying auditory experience during typing sessions. In comparison, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch is described as having a neutral sound signature, making it suitable for various environments and preferences. While the Shadow switch offers a more pronounced sound, the WS Light Tactile switch provides a quieter and more subtle typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is characterized as bouncy, offering a spring-like feedback sensation that enhances the typing experience with a lively feel and rebound effect. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch is described as having a stepped feel, with a mild tactile bump that provides some pre-travel and post-travel feedback. Additionally, it is easy-to-press, requiring minimal force to activate and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. While the Shadow switch offers a more dynamic tactile experience, the WS Light Tactile switch provides a smoother and gentler keystroke feel.
Overall, both the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. If you enjoy a deep and thocky sound profile with a bouncy and lively tactile feel, the Shadow switch may be the ideal choice for you. Conversely, if you prefer a neutral sound signature with a more stepped and easy-to-press tactile feel, the WS Light Tactile switch may be better suited to your preferences. Ultimately, choosing between these switches comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking to achieve.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility and a deep sound profile, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force and a smooth, snappy tactile bump with a neutral sound profile, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch is the way to go. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preference for tactility, actuation force, and sound profile. Regardless of your choice, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience.
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