Bsun Akashi vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi 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 BSUN Akashi linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch stand out for their unique qualities. The Akashi boasts a UPE stem for smoothness and a distinctive housing combo, resulting in a novel, resonant typing experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offers a medium-high level of tactility, perfect for those who enjoy a tactile typing sensation with deep, resonating thocks. While the Akashi is categorized as 'Creamy' and 'Easy-to-press', the Shadow (Ink) switch is labeled as 'High-pitched' and 'Sharp'. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. 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
37g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
UPE
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage extended spring
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Akashi and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, it is clear that they have significant differences. The Akashi features a POM top housing which creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharper and crisper sound. Additionally, the Akashi's nylon bottom housing contributes to a fuller and rounder sound profile, in contrast to the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's polycarbonate bottom housing which enhances clarity and resonance. These differences in housing materials result in distinct audio experiences for users of the switches.
However, despite their differences, the housing materials of the Akashi and the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring also share similarities. Both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing, albeit in different combinations with other materials. Polycarbonate is known for creating a clear and resonant sound profile, making it a popular choice for switch housings. This shared material in the top housing of both switches ensures that users can expect similar characteristics in terms of sound when pressing down on a key or letting go.
Overall, the choice of housing materials between the Bsun Akashi and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring ultimately comes down to personal preference. While the Akashi offers a unique sound profile with its POM top housing and nylon bottom housing, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring provides a different audio experience with its polycarbonate top and bottom housings. Whether one prefers a deeper and fuller sound or a sharper and crisper sound, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences in keyboard switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, the difference in weight is noticeable. The Akashi has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, offering a smooth and easy typing experience. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, providing a more substantial and tactile typing feel. The Akashi is ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is suited for users who enjoy a more pronounced keystroke with a bit more resistance. Both switches offer unique experiences tailored to individual preferences, with the Akashi being lighter and the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offering a heavier feel.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, the Akashi has a travel distance of 3.7 mm while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Akashi. The Akashi's 3.7 mm travel distance falls on the shorter end of the spectrum, making it a preferred choice for gamers seeking faster response times. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's 4 mm travel distance offers a bit more depth, which may be preferred by those looking for a more substantial feeling when pressing down on a key. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preference for travel distance and the type of typing or gaming experience desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Akashi has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Akashi for $3.70.
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.
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, both the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch are described as clacky, offering a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This results in a crisp, bright, and percussive auditory experience with each keystroke. The Akashi provides a unique sound contrast due to its UPE stem and distinctive POM top and nylon bottom housing, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring delivers a deep, resonating thock thanks to its specifically designed two-staged spring. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Bsun Akashi is characterized by its creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, and easy-to-press attributes, resulting in a smooth, effortless, and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is known for its sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped tactile feedback, offering a high level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Both switches provide a distinct tactile sensation with each keypress, catering to different preferences of typing feel.
In conclusion, while the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch offer different sound profiles and tactile feedback, both switches excel in providing a unique typing experience. Whether you prefer the clacky sound of the Akashi or the deep thocks of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, both switches deliver on their promises of delivering a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the BSUN Akashi linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a light bottom out force and a smooth, resonant typing experience with a bright, crisp sound, then the Akashi switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a medium-high level of tactility with a medium bottom out force, accompanied by deep, resonating thocks and a sharp, snappy sound, then the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch is the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel, sound profile, and bottom out force to ensure a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
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