Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring vs. Wuque Studio WS Red
An in-depth look at the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the Wuque Studio WS Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a mechanical keyboard switch that offers a satisfying tactile experience, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring may be the perfect choice for you. With its medium level of tactility and lower actuation and bottom-out force, this switch provides a comfortable and approachable typing feel. Additionally, the deep and thocky sound profile adds to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a bit more weight behind each keystroke, the Wuque Studio WS Red is worth considering. With its 22mm double-stage spring, these switches offer a bouncy and responsive typing experience, while also providing a familiar sound signature thanks to their classic material blend. The WS Red switches have a heavier actuation force, adding a satisfying and substantial feel to each keystroke. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision on which switch is the perfect fit for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
48g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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 double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the Wuque Studio WS Red differ in their housing materials. The Shadow (Ink) features a polycarbonate top housing, while the WS Red utilizes a nylon top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Shadow (Ink) produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for those who prefer a more distinct typing sound. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the WS Red creates a deeper and fuller sound due to its relatively softer plastic, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, users can expect a noticeable difference in sound between these two switches when typing on them.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the Wuque Studio WS Red also have different materials in this aspect. The Shadow (Ink) incorporates a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the WS Red utilizes a nylon bottom housing. Similar to the top housing, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This stiffer plastic enhances the clear and resonant sound produced by the switch. In contrast, the nylon bottom housing of the WS Red creates a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. Therefore, the bottom-out sound and feel will vary between these two switches, with the Shadow (Ink) offering a crisper experience compared to the WS Red.
When considering the overall sound profile and feel of the switches, it is important to note that the top and bottom housing materials play a role in different aspects. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, users can expect distinct differences between the Shadow (Ink) and the WS Red in both the sound produced when pressing down on the keys and when releasing them. These variations provide users with options depending on their preferences for a sharper, higher-pitched sound or a deeper, fuller tone.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, it is clear that there are differences in both the actuation force and bottom out force. The Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has an actuation force of 48 grams, which is considered medium-light, while the actuation force of the WS Red is not available. In terms of bottom out force, the Shadow (Ink) requires 55 grams to fully press down, which again falls into the medium-light range. On the other hand, the WS Red has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy.
Considering weight is important for different individuals based on their preferences and use cases. For those seeking a lighter typing experience, the Shadow (Ink) with its medium-light actuation and bottom out forces can provide a comfortable typing experience for extended periods, making it suitable for professional use or long gaming sessions. However, individuals who prefer a stronger pushing sensation for a more substantial typing experience may opt for the WS Red, which has a medium-heavy bottom out force.
While the actuation force for the WS Red is not mentioned, it is worth noting that a switch with a similar actuation force to the Shadow (Ink) could potentially result in similar typing experiences. Overall, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces, while the Wuque Studio WS Red provides a heavier push feel for those seeking a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, it is clear that the Shadow (Ink) has a slightly longer travel distance at 4.0mm, compared to the WS Red's 3.8mm. The difference may seem small, but it can make a noticeable impact on the typing experience. The 4.0mm distance of the Shadow (Ink) is more in line with the traditional travel distance, providing a deeper key press. On the other hand, the WS Red offers a slightly shallower travel distance, making it preferred by gamers who value faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference and whether you prioritize a more responsive typing experience or a deeper key press.
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 Red 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 is best known for its deep and thocky sound profile. This creates a satisfying and pleasant typing experience, especially for those who enjoy a deeper sound when pressing the keys. On the other hand, the sound signature of the Wuque Studio WS Red switch is not specified, so it is unknown how it compares to the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
Speaking of feel, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is described as having a medium level of tactility. This means that it provides a noticeable but not overwhelming feedback sensation when pressed. These switches have a lower actuation and bottom-out force, making them accessible and enjoyable for users who prefer a tactile typing experience without too much resistance. The Wuque Studio WS Red switch does not have a specific feel description provided, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison in terms of feel between the two switches.
Taking all the available information into account, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch seems to be a great choice for those who desire a tactile typing experience with a medium level of tactility and a deep, thocky sound. It offers a comfortable and approachable feel, making it suitable for both typing and gaming tasks. However, since the description of the Wuque Studio WS Red switch does not provide detailed information on sound or feel, it is unclear how it specifically compares to the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch in these aspects.
If you are looking for a switch with similar qualities as the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring or WS Red, it would be best to consider other switches that are known for medium tactility and a smooth, linear feel. In this case, options such as the Cherry MX Brown switch or the Gateron Yellow switch could be worth exploring. These switches offer tactile feedback but with a lighter actuation force compared to the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, providing a comfortable typing experience. However, it's always recommended to try out different switches firsthand, as individual preferences may vary.
Conclusion
To wrap 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 you prefer a heavier actuation force and a bouncy and responsive typing experience, the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch is an excellent choice. With its 22mm double-stage spring, it delivers a satisfying and substantial typing feel while retaining a familiar sound signature. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal preference for actuation force and typing experience.
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