Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring vs. Wuque Studio WS Morandi
An in-depth look at the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing two impressive mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi. Each switch offers a distinct experience, leaving you with an important decision to make. If you desire a tactile switch with a moderate level of tactility, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring from Aflion is a fantastic choice. Its lower actuation and bottom-out force provide an approachable tactility, accompanied by a satisfyingly deep and thocky sound profile. On the other hand, the WS Morandi switches from Wuque Studio combine innovation and visual aesthetics. These ultra-smooth linear switches feature a mesmerizing light-diffusing effect through their unique UPE stem and light column. With a medium weight and slightly shortened total travel, they strike the perfect balance between form and function. While producing a slightly more muted sound profile, the Morandis offer a creamy, buttery smoothness distinct from factory-lubed switches. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal 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
3.50 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
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This characteristic is especially beneficial for those who prefer a more distinct and resonant sound when typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the integration of RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the switch. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Morandi features a POM top housing that produces a deeper and relatively more muted sound. This unique sound profile offers a more soothing and subtle typing experience. However, the absence of translucency in the POM top housing limits the switch's compatibility with RGB lighting.
Another significant aspect to consider is the material used for the bottom housing of each switch. The Shadow (Ink) Single Spring incorporates a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to the overall sound profile of the switch. The relatively stiffer plastic enhances clarity and resonance, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound when pressing down on the keys. Conversely, the WS Morandi utilizes a POM bottom housing, creating an incredibly pleasing and unique sound that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum. This adds a sense of depth and subtle sophistication to the typing experience.
When examining switches with different top and bottom housings, it is important to note that the qualities of each housing material influence different aspects of the typing experience. While the bottom housing mainly affects the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, the top housing has more impact on the sound produced when a key is released. Therefore, in the case of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the WS Morandi, the variations in their top and bottom housing materials will result in differences in both the sound and tactile feedback provided by each switch. However, in terms of their respective top and bottom housing materials, both switches offer distinct advantages, such as the clear and resonant sound profile contributed by polycarbonate and the deeper, more muted sound provided by POM.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch, it is evident that weight is a factor to consider. The Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has a lighter actuation force of 48 grams compared to the WS Morandi, which has an unknown actuation force. However, both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring being 55 grams and the WS Morandi being 60 grams. Therefore, if a lighter typing experience is preferred, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring would be the better option. In contrast, for those who desire a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience, the WS Morandi with its slightly heavier bottom out force would be a suitable choice.
Travel distance
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch have different travel distances, with the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring having a travel distance of 4.0 mm and the WS Morandi having a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Shadow (Ink) Single Spring falls under the more traditional travel distance range of 4.0 mm, while the WS Morandi is slightly shorter at 3.5 mm. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the WS Morandi with its shorter travel distance, as it allows for quicker keystrokes. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more solid and deeper feel when pressing down on keys may find the 4.0 mm travel distance of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring more to their liking. It is worth noting that both switches offer tactile feedback, so the overall typing experience would still be similar, regardless of the difference in 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 Morandi has an MSRP of $4.30 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Morandi for $3.90.
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. This means that when the key is pressed and released, it produces a satisfying, low-pitched sound similar to a deep "thud" or a soft "knock". On the other hand, the WS Morandi switch is described as having a slightly more muted sound profile. It is characterized as a subdued switch, which produces a dampened sound when pressed. While not completely silent, it offers a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the choice of board and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is described as bouncy. This means that it provides a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation when pressed. The keys have a lively feel, giving the user a sense of rebound. On the other hand, the WS Morandi switch is described as buttery and creamy. It offers a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. The switch's silky nature enhances the overall smoothness of the typing feel and minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. It is worth noting that creamy switches are typically factory-lubed, which contributes to their smooth and buttery typing experience.
Taking all the available information into consideration, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is recommended for those looking for a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility. Its deep and thocky sound profile, paired with its bouncy feel, offers an approachable and lively typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Morandi switch stands out for its innovative design and visual aesthetics. With its UPE stem and unique dry and airy smoothness, it provides a slightly more muted sound profile and a buttery, creamy, and silky typing experience. Both switches have their own unique qualities and can cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the user's personal preferences in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility and a lower actuation and bottom-out force, we highly recommend the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring. These switches offer a very approachable tactility and a deep and thocky sound profile. On the other hand, if innovation and visual aesthetics are important to you, the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch is the way to go. These switches feature a unique dry and airy smoothness, enhanced by the UPE stem. With a slightly more muted sound profile and a mesmerizing light diffusion effect, the WS Morandi strikes the perfect balance between form and function. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your preference for tactility, sound, and aesthetic appeal.
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