Outemu Cream Yellow vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cream Yellow and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Cream Yellow and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Cream Yellow is known for its smooth tactile feedback and is a great option for those who prefer a more subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is ideal for those who enjoy a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility, along with deep, resonating thocks when typing. While the Cream Yellow is more understated, the Shadow switch variant offers a more pronounced typing experience with characteristics like being clacky, high-pitched, sharp, and bouncy. 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
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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 dual-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Cream Yellow and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, one can see that they both utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Cream Yellow features a nylon top and bottom housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Shadow Double Spring utilizes a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile thanks to its stiffer plastic composition. While both materials offer distinct sound characteristics, the choice between the two ultimately boils down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Despite their differences, the housing materials of the Cream Yellow and Shadow Double Spring share some similarities in terms of their impact on switch performance. Both nylon and polycarbonate materials play a crucial role in shaping the sound profile of the switches, with nylon creating a duller and rounder sound while polycarbonate produces a more resonant and clear sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is noted to be especially beneficial for switches intended for RGB lighting, adding a visual appeal to the typing experience. Ultimately, the selection of housing material may influence the overall feel and sound of the switch, making it a significant factor to consider when customizing a mechanical keyboard.
When using switches with different housing materials for the top and bottom, it is essential to recognize the impact each component has on the typing experience. The bottom housing primarily influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed, while the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. By understanding the unique qualities that nylon and polycarbonate bring to the table, keyboard enthusiasts can make an informed decision based on their preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. Whether opting for the Cream Yellow's nylon housing for a deeper sound profile or the Shadow Double Spring's polycarbonate housing for a crisper sound, both options offer a distinct typing experience tailored to individual preferences.
Weight
The Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 55 grams. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Cream Yellow at 60 grams and the Shadow (Ink) at 63 grams. This means that while the Cream Yellow may feel lighter to type on initially, they will both require a similar amount of force when fully pressed. When considering weight, some may prefer the Cream Yellow for its lighter actuation force, ideal for longer typing sessions, while others may opt for the Shadow (Ink) for a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it shorter than the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Cream Yellow offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it ideal for gamers looking for speed and efficiency. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring provides a deeper keystroke experience with its longer travel distance, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you are looking for.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double 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) Double Spring for $3.57.
The Outemu Cream Yellow comes in at $3.10 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 Outemu Cream Yellow switch does not have a specific descriptor provided, so it is difficult to directly compare its sound to the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch, which is described as clacky and high-pitched. The Cream Yellow switch may have a more neutral or subdued sound profile compared to the sharp and bright sound of the Shadow switch. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that can enhance the overall typing experience, depending on personal preferences and setup.
When it comes to feel, the Cream Yellow switch does not have a specific descriptor provided, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is described as sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped. This suggests that the Shadow switch provides a more pronounced tactile feedback with distinct stages of actuation, offering a lively and responsive typing experience. In contrast, the feel of the Cream Yellow switch may be more subtle or smooth in comparison. Both switches cater to different preferences in terms of tactility and feedback, allowing users to choose based on their typing style and preferences.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Cream Yellow and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches offer different sound and feel profiles, each switch has its own strengths and appeal. The Cream Yellow switch may provide a more understated and consistent typing experience, while the Shadow switch offers a more tactile and responsive feel with distinct sound characteristics. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing performance. Experimenting with different switches on various boards and keycaps can help users determine which switch aligns best with their typing needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Cream Yellow and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches, consider your preferences for tactility, sound, and typing feel. If you prefer a switch with a medium bottom-out force and a smoother typing experience, the Cream Yellow may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a higher level of tactility, deeper sound profile, and a more pronounced tactile bump, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch would be a great option. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style to enhance your overall keyboarding experience.
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