Gateron Silent Ink Black vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the Gateron Silent Ink Black and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Silent Ink Black and Aflion Thunder Shadow mechanical keyboard switches, two distinct options emerge for different preferences. The Silent Ink Black stands out for its linear design, providing a smooth and quiet typing experience perfect for environments where noise is a concern. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow from Aflion offers a tactile typing experience with a pronounced bump and medium weight feel, ideal for those who prefer a more tactile feedback while typing. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to specific preferences and needs. 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
60g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
In terms of housing materials, the Gateron Silent Ink Black features a proprietary INK blend for both the top and bottom housings, providing a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is often described as clacky. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow utilizes polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. The polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound.
One key difference between the two is that the Silent Ink Black uses the same proprietary INK blend material for both the top and bottom housings, resulting in a consistent sound profile throughout the keystroke. In contrast, the Thunder Shadow combines polycarbonate and nylon for its housing materials, creating a split in sound qualities between the top and bottom of the switch. This means that the bottom housing will have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will affect the sound when releasing a key.
Despite their differences, both the Gateron Silent Ink Black and the Aflion Thunder Shadow offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials. The Silent Ink Black's INK blend provides a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound while the Thunder Shadow's combination of polycarbonate and nylon creates a sharp and resonant sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference regarding the type of sound and feel desired during typing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, we see a noticeable difference in weight. The Silent Ink Black has both a higher actuation force of 60 grams and a higher bottom out force of 70 grams, making it the heavier option. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow has an unknown actuation force but a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, placing it slightly lighter than the Silent Ink Black. The Silent Ink Black provides a more substantial typing experience due to its higher force requirements, while the Thunder Shadow offers a lighter touch, ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming. Both switches offer different advantages depending on the user's preference for actuation and bottom out forces. If the forces are the same, users can expect similar results in terms of typing feel and experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is longer than the 3.5 mm travel distance of the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch. The Silent Ink Black offers a bit more depth when pressing down on a key compared to the Thunder Shadow. This difference in travel distance can affect the typing experience and feel of the switches. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Thunder Shadow, while those who enjoy a more hearty keystroke may lean towards the Silent Ink Black. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Silent Ink Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Ink Black for $8.35.
The Aflion Thunder Shadow has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Thunder Shadow for $3.91.
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 Gateron Silent Ink Black switch offers a muted experience, perfect for environments where quieter typing is preferred. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow switch provides a neutral sound profile, suitable for various purposes without being too loud or too soft. Both switches can provide a pleasant typing experience, with the Silent Ink Black being more subdued and the Thunder Shadow being more balanced in sound.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch is described as silky and polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with minimal resistance. In contrast, the Aflion Thunder Shadow switch provides an invigorating feel, with a pronounced tactile bump and a moderate weight that can enhance the typing sensation. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences, with the Silent Ink Black focusing on smoothness and the Thunder Shadow emphasizing feedback and responsiveness.
In conclusion, if you prefer a quieter typing experience with a smooth and refined feel, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch would be the top choice for you. However, if you are looking for a switch with a balanced sound profile and a tactile typing experience that provides immersive feedback, the Aflion Thunder Shadow switch would be the better option. Ultimately, both switches offer high-quality performance, so you can expect similar results in terms of durability and reliability regardless of your choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, consider your environment and preference for typing experience. If you require a quieter typing environment with a cushiony bottom-out feel, opt for the Silent Ink Black. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile bump with a harmonious balance and a neutral sound signature, the Thunder Shadow may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. Happy typing!
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