Jwick Ginger Milk vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the Jwick Ginger Milk and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Jwick Ginger Milk and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring. The Ginger Milk is a linear switch, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is a tactile switch. The Ginger Milk is best known for its soft and pastel appearance, reflecting the typing experience it offers - silky smooth and approachable with a muted, snappy sound profile. On the other hand, if you are in search of a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is highly recommended. With a lower actuation and bottom-out force, it provides a very approachable tactility. Additionally, it boasts a deep and thocky sound profile. Both switches have their own unique qualities that make them appealing, 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
50g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Jwick Ginger Milk and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing materials. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal material for achieving a precise and defined typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for RGB lighting to be effectively showcased in both switches. Therefore, users can expect similar sound and aesthetics when using either the Ginger Milk or the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring due to their shared use of polycarbonate in the top housing.
While the Ginger Milk features a nylon bottom housing, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing. This distinction introduces variations in the sound and feel of the switches. Typing on the Ginger Milk, with its nylon bottom housing, provides a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the typing experience. Therefore, users can expect a different sound and feel when bottoming out the keys, depending on whether they choose the Ginger Milk or the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring.
In terms of the overall impact of the top and bottom housings on the switch, there are notable distinctions. When pressing down on either the Ginger Milk or the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, the qualities of the bottom housing will be more pronounced. The bottom housing has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, which users will feel upon actuation. Conversely, the top housing exerts more influence on the sound when a key is released. By understanding this division of qualities, users can have a clearer expectation of the typing experience they will have with either switch. Whether they prefer a fuller and deeper sound profile with the Ginger Milk or a crisper and more resonant sound with the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, the choice ultimately depends on their personal preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, there are some noticeable similarities and differences. In terms of weight, the Ginger Milk has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's 48 grams. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Ginger Milk is significantly heavier at 63.5 grams, whereas the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring measures 55 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring would be a better option as it has a slightly lower actuation and bottom out force. This lighter weight allows for extended typing sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, the Ginger Milk, with its heavier actuation and bottom out force, provides a more substantial typing experience. This would be preferred by individuals who enjoy a stronger push feel and desire a more tactile feedback while typing.
While the forces of both switches differ, it is worth noting that they both fall within the medium range. Therefore, if someone prefers a medium weight switch, they would find similar results with either the Ginger Milk or the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch is 3.7 mm, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of comparison, the Ginger Milk offers a slightly shorter travel distance than the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch.
Typically, a travel distance of 4.0 mm is considered the most traditional, while 3.0 mm is the most shallow. However, with the growing demand for faster response times, shorter travel distances have become more prevalent, especially among gamers. Those who prioritize quicker responsiveness may prefer the Ginger Milk with its shorter travel distance.
On the other hand, some individuals find short travel distances to be too abrupt and prefer switches with more depth in their keystrokes. For those who enjoy a hearty sensation when typing, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch may be the preferred option due to its longer travel distance.
Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jwick Ginger Milk has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ginger Milk for $4.25.
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.
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 Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch offers a muted, snappy sound profile. This means that when typing with these switches, you can expect a quieter and satisfying sound. On the other hand, information regarding the sound profile of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is not available. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used. Considering this, if both switches are mounted on similar boards with the same keycaps, you may achieve similar results in terms of sound.
Moving on to feel, the Ginger Milk switch is described as providing a silky smooth and approachable push feel. This means that when using these switches, you can expect a seamless and effortless typing sensation. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is described as having a medium level of tactility and a bouncy feel. This suggests that when typing with these switches, you will experience a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, giving you rebound when pressed. The keys will feel lively and offer a bouncy typing experience.
Considering all the available information, the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch is best known for its soft and pastel appearance and its silky smooth and approachable push feel. It offers a muted, snappy sound profile that is suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is recommended for those seeking a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility. It provides a lower actuation and bottom-out force, making it easy to engage the keys. While information on the sound profile is not available, the bouncy feel of these switches provides a lively typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference in terms of feel and sound.
Conclusion
In concluding, when it comes to choosing between the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, there are a few key factors to consider. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a soft and pastel aesthetic, the Ginger Milk is a great choice. These switches offer a silky smooth and approachable typing experience with a muted, snappy sound profile. On the other hand, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility and a lower actuation and bottom-out force, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is highly recommended. These switches provide a deep and thocky sound profile and a very approachable tactility. Ultimately, the choice boils down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, the Ginger Milk is suitable for most intents and purposes. However, if you enjoy a buttery smooth keystroke experience, the Ginger Milk is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy and lively feel with a spring-like feedback sensation, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is the switch for you. Consider these factors and choose the switch that aligns with your typing preferences for the most enjoyable mechanical keyboard experience.
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