Cherry MX Speed Silver vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring stand out as excellent options, each offering unique features to cater to different preferences. The MX Speed Silver is a linear switch with low spring resistance, providing instant triggering that is ideal for gamers seeking maximum speed and performance. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is a tactile switch offering a medium level of tactility and a deep, thocky sound profile, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a more bouncy typing experience. While these general pointers can help guide your decision, it is crucial to delve deeper into the specific characteristics of each switch to determine which one best suits your needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
30g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
pom
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, it is evident that they both focus on providing a unique sound profile for typing. The MX Speed Silver's nylon housing creates a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's polycarbonate housing leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, attributed to its stiffer plastic composition. This difference in sound profiles showcases how housing materials can significantly impact the typing experience.
Furthermore, both switches feature a similar approach in utilizing different materials for their top and bottom housings. The MX Speed Silver and the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring both employ a combination of nylon and polycarbonate for their top and bottom housings, respectively. This split in housing materials allows for a division in the impact on sound and feel when typing on these switches. The qualities of the bottom housing, whether nylon or polycarbonate, are more pronounced in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing, whether nylon or polycarbonate, has a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, the choice of housing material between nylon and polycarbonate ultimately comes down to personal preference in typing experience and sound profile. The nylon housing of the MX Speed Silver offers a deeper and fuller sound, ideal for those who prefer a softer typing feel. In contrast, the polycarbonate housing of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring delivers a sharper and crisper sound, appealing to individuals seeking a more resonant typing experience. While the housing materials may differ, both switches aim to provide users with a unique and satisfying typing experience based on their sound preferences.
Weight
In comparing the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, it is evident that the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The MX Speed Silver is lighter in terms of actuation force, requiring 30 grams to trigger a keystroke, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has a heavier actuation force of 48 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the MX Speed Silver's force is unknown, whereas the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has a bottom out force of 55 grams, which is medium-light. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for prolonged use, the MX Speed Silver would be a suitable choice. In contrast, individuals seeking a more substantial and tactile typing feel may lean towards the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it shorter than the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The MX Speed Silver would be more preferred by gamers looking for a faster response time due to its shorter travel distance, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring may be favored by those who prefer a more substantial key press feel. Both switches offer unique characteristics based on their travel distance, catering to different preferences in typing or gaming experiences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the specific use case.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Speed Silver has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Speed Silver for $4.00.
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 MX Speed Silver switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, creating a deep and satisfying tone with each press. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is praised for its deep and thocky sound profile, offering a similar auditory experience to the MX Speed Silver switch. Both switches provide a pleasing sound feedback, especially when coupled with the right keyboard and keycap combination.
Moving on to the feel, the MX Speed Silver switch is often described as textured, offering a unique tactile experience with a noticeable friction when pressed. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is highlighted for its bouncy feedback, providing a spring-like sensation with a lively feel and rebound effect. While the two switches offer different tactile feedback, they both cater to users looking for a distinct feel during typing or gaming sessions.
In conclusion, the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch each excel in their own right. The MX Speed Silver switch is ideal for gamers seeking rapid response and low spring resistance, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch offers a medium level of tactility with a deep and thocky sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference and the specific requirements of the user, but both switches guarantee a premium typing experience with their unique qualities.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, consider your priorities. If you prioritize speed and instant response for gaming, the MX Speed Silver is the way to go with its lightning-fast linear action. However, if you prefer a more tactile typing experience with a medium level of tactility and a deep thocky sound profile, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is the better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you value speed or tactility in your keyboard switches. Each switch offers distinct advantages, so choose the one that best suits your typing or gaming style.
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