Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile
An in-depth look at the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options stand out: the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile. The Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is perfect for those seeking a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility. With a lower actuation and bottom-out force, this variant of Aflion's Shadow switch offers an approachable tactility. Additionally, it boasts a deep and thocky sound profile. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile switches by Wuque are the ideal choice for individuals working in office environments. These switches strike a balance between tactility and noise reduction, providing a satisfyingly crisp bottom-out and responsive return. What sets them apart is the absence of silicone dampeners, ensuring a typing experience free from the usual padded feel of most silent switches. Both switches have their unique qualities. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
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
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile differ in their housing materials. The Shadow (Ink) Single Spring features a polycarbonate top housing, while the WS Silent Tactile utilizes a nylon top housing. Polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. On the other hand, nylon, being a softer plastic, creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. This contrast in sound profiles can significantly impact the typing experience, with the polycarbonate housing producing a more distinct and resonant sound, while the nylon housing elicits a duller and rounder sound.
In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring comes with the added advantage of translucency, making it suitable for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. The clear housing allows the vibrant colors to shine through, enhancing the overall visual appeal. In contrast, the WS Silent Tactile's nylon top housing does not offer this translucency, but it does provide a classic switch housing material that is known for its reliability and durability.
Notably, when using switches with different top and bottom housings, the qualities of each housing material will be split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing plays a crucial role in the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the choice of housing materials can greatly influence the overall tactile and auditory experience when typing. Whether it's the sharp and resonant sound of polycarbonate or the deeper and fuller sound of nylon, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch, some notable differences arise. The Shadow (Ink) Single Spring requires an actuation force of 48 grams, offering a medium-light touch to activate a keystroke. In contrast, the actuation force of the WS Silent Tactile switch is unknown, making it difficult to determine the level of force required for triggering a keystroke with this switch. Moving on to the bottom out force, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has a bottom out force of 55 grams, providing a slightly heavier feel when pressing the keys down completely. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile switch has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which falls into the medium-heavy range. Therefore, the WS Silent Tactile switch offers a heavier typing experience compared to the medium-light feel of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring. These differences in weight can be crucial depending on individual preferences and usage scenarios. Some individuals may prefer a lighter switch, allowing for more extended typing sessions or prolonged gaming sessions. This lighter touch is particularly useful for keyboards used in work environments or during long gaming sessions. Conversely, those seeking a more substantial typing experience may prefer switches with heavier forces to provide a stronger push feel. Although the actuation force for the WS Silent Tactile switch was unavailable, it is clear that the bottom out force for this switch is heavier than that of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring. In conclusion, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offers a medium-light actuation force and bottom out force, while the WS Silent Tactile provides a medium-heavy typing experience.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch, it is clear that the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the WS Silent Tactile has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The difference may seem small, but it can make a notable impact on the overall typing or gaming experience. 4.0 mm is the more traditional and standard travel distance, providing a deeper keystroke that some users may prefer for a more satisfying feel. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile's shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm appeals to gamers and those who prioritize faster response times. The shorter travel distance allows for quicker keystrokes, enhancing the speed and agility required in gaming scenarios. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
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 Silent 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 is best described as having a deep and thocky sound profile. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches are known for their muted sound. These switches have been crafted with precision to minimize switch sound while still delivering a satisfyingly crisp bottom-out and responsive return. By forgoing the use of silicone dampeners, the WS Silent Tactile switches provide a typing experience that is devoid of the usual padded feel found in most silent switches, creating a unique blend of tranquility and tactility. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches are described as having a bouncy feel. This translates to a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, giving keys a lively feel and rebound when pressed. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches are described as offering an accented feel. This means that they provide a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. They offer pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel, creating an invigorating typing sensation. Additionally, WS Silent Tactile switches are also characterized as mild, providing a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. These qualities make the WS Silent Tactile switches approachable to most users.
In conclusion, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches are recommended for those seeking a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility and a deep, thocky sound profile. They offer a bouncy feel, providing a lively and rebounding typing experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches are perfect for users who value a quieter typing experience while still enjoying a medium level of tactility. These switches have an accented feel, offering pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy typing sensation. Both switches provide a satisfying tactile experience, but the WS Silent Tactile switches excel in noise reduction. Depending on your preferences, you can achieve similar results in terms of sound and feel with either switch option.
Conclusion
In summary, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility, a lower actuation and bottom-out force, and a deep and thocky sound profile, we highly recommend the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch. This switch provides a very approachable tactility and is suitable for both beginners and advanced users. On the other hand, if you are seeking a switch that strikes a delicate balance between tactility and noise reduction, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch is the perfect choice. With its ingenious stem railings and small cutouts, it effectively minimizes switch sound while delivering a satisfyingly crisp bottom-out and responsive return. This switch also offers a moderate actuation force and a more gentle typing experience, creating an immersive and tranquil typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your specific preferences for tactility, sound, and feel, and whether you prioritize a deep thocky sound or a quieter typing experience.
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