Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare and contrast are the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro stands out for its higher-pitched sound profile and satisfying tactile bump, providing a delightful typing experience for enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offers a medium level of tactility with lower actuation and bottom-out force, resulting in an approachable tactile feel. While the V3 Lavender Purple Pro is described as ['Accented', 'Bouncy', 'Snappy', 'Polished'], the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is categorized as ['Bouncy']. Both switches have unique characteristics that appeal to different preferences, highlighting the importance of diving deeper into the specifics to choose the best switch for individual needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
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
20mm
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. However, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound.
Although both the V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring feature polycarbonate top housings, the bottom housings of the two switches differ significantly. The split between the bottom and top housings impacts the overall sound and feel of the switch. When pressing down on a key, the qualities of the bottom housing will be more pronounced, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the qualities of the top housing will be more noticeable when releasing a key. This difference in housing materials showcases how the composition of a switch can influence the overall typing experience.
In terms of housing materials, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offer distinct typing experiences. While both switches share the benefits of a polycarbonate top housing, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's polycarbonate bottom housing. The combination of different housing materials in each switch demonstrates how the top and bottom housings contribute to the overall sound and feel of typing on a mechanical keyboard. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in sound and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, it is evident that both switches have a similar bottom out force of 55 grams. However, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's 48 grams. This means that the V3 Lavender Purple Pro will require less force to trigger a keystroke, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offers a slightly heavier actuation force, which may provide a more substantial typing experience for users who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the V3 Lavender Purple Pro. This means that the V3 Lavender Purple Pro will provide a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for speed. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring will offer a bit more depth to the keypress, which may be preferred by those who appreciate a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches offer benefits depending on individual preferences, but if you are looking for a shorter travel distance for quicker responses, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro would be the better option.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro has an MSRP of $3.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Lavender Purple Pro for $2.20.
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 V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch is known for its higher-pitched sound profile, which contributes to a delightful typing experience. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is noted for its deep and thocky sound profile. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that can enhance the overall typing experience, with the V3 Lavender Purple Pro having a higher pitch and the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offering a deeper sound.
In terms of feel, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch is described as having an accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished feel. This means that it provides a medium level of tactility that is not overwhelming, a lively feedback sensation, super responsiveness, and a smooth key travel experience. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is described as having a bouncy feel, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation with lively rebound when pressed. Both switches offer a tactile typing experience, with the V3 Lavender Purple Pro having a bit more complexity in its feel due to the multiple descriptors.
Overall, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch has a higher-pitched sound and a combination of accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished feel, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch has a deep and thocky sound and a bouncy feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound and tactility, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience. Considering these factors, users can expect similar results in both switches in terms of overall quality and performance.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you enjoy a higher-pitched sound profile with a satisfying tactile bump, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a deep and thocky sound profile with a medium level of tactility, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring could be the better option. Both switches have a bottom out force of 55 grams, providing a medium-light typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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