Bsun Akashi vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the BSUN Akashi linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch offer unique experiences worth considering. The Akashi stands out for its smooth UPE stem and distinctive POM top with a nylon bottom housing, creating a bright and crisp bottom-out sound. In comparison, the Thunder Shadow by Aflion boasts a pronounced tactile bump and a harmonious balance with a medium weight feel. While the Akashi is known for being 'clacky', 'creamy', and 'snappy', the Thunder Shadow is described as 'invigorating' and 'neutral'. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal, but which one suits you best ultimately depends on your 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
UPE
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage extended spring
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Akashi and the Aflion Thunder Shadow both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. While the Akashi uses a POM top housing and a nylon bottom housing, the Thunder Shadow opts for a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing. The POM top housing of the Akashi creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Thunder Shadow produces a sharper and crisper sound. Additionally, the nylon bottom housing of both switches elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition.
Despite their differences in housing materials, both the Bsun Akashi and the Aflion Thunder Shadow offer a satisfying typing experience. The POM top housing of the Akashi provides a unique sound profile that differs from the crisper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing of the Thunder Shadow. However, the nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a similar deep and full sound profile, thanks to its ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound that enhances the typing experience for users of both switches.
When considering the impact of the top and bottom housings on the overall sound and feel of a switch, it is important to note how each material contributes to the typing experience. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound upon key release. In the case of the Akashi and the Thunder Shadow, the combination of POM and nylon in the Akashi and polycarbonate and nylon in the Thunder Shadow results in a balanced typing experience that caters to different preferences in sound and feel. Overall, the housing materials of these switches work in tandem to create a satisfying typing experience for users seeking unique sound profiles.
Weight
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch while typing for extended periods or during gaming sessions. In contrast, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch has a higher bottom out force of 63.5 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Due to the unknown actuation force of the Thunder Shadow, it is difficult to directly compare the two in terms of actuation force. Overall, the Akashi is lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out force, while the Thunder Shadow leans towards the medium-heavy end of the scale, offering a different typing experience for users who prefer a heavier touch.
Travel distance
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for their quick response times. The Akashi offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more substantial feel when pressing down on the key compared to the Thunder Shadow. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of responsiveness and depth of key press.
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 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
In terms of sound, the Akashi linear switch offers a clacky experience with a sharp and snappy sound, while the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch provides a neutral sound profile that is suitable for various purposes. The Akashi's unique stem design and housing combo create a bright and crisp bottom-out sound, enhancing the overall typing experience with a resonant quality. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow's neutral sound signature complements its balanced tactile bump, showcasing Aflion's dedication to fine-tuned innovation. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Akashi leaning towards a more pronounced and resonant tone, while the Thunder Shadow provides a more versatile and neutral sound experience.
When it comes to feel, the Akashi linear switch is described as creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, and easy-to-press. These qualities combine to offer a smooth and buttery typing experience with minimal resistance and effortless key presses. In contrast, the Thunder Shadow tactile switch is characterized as invigorating, providing pronounced feedback and a reactive feel that creates an immersive typing sensation. While the Akashi focuses on providing a range of smooth and effortless typing experiences, the Thunder Shadow emphasizes a tactile and responsive feel that engages the user with each keystroke. Both switches offer unique tactile sensations, with the Akashi prioritizing a smooth and polished typing experience, while the Thunder Shadow delivers a more dynamic and invigorating feel.
Overall, the Bsun Akashi linear switch and Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch offer distinctive qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Akashi stands out with its resonant and clacky sound profile, accompanied by a range of smooth and creamy typing experiences. In comparison, the Thunder Shadow impresses with its neutral sound signature and invigorating tactile feedback, providing a balanced and engaging typing feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer a premium typing experience that caters to a variety of typing styles and preferences, ensuring that users will find satisfaction with either choice. Ultimately, whether opting for the resonant and clacky Akashi or the balanced and invigorating Thunder Shadow, users can expect a high-quality typing experience that meets their specific requirements.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the BSUN Akashi linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, consider the following factors. If you are looking for a light and smooth typing experience with a unique sound profile, the Akashi might be the ideal choice for you. The Akashi's creamy and frictionless feel, along with its clacky sound, offers a novel and resonant typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy tactile switch with a balanced feel and neutral sound profile, the Thunder Shadow could be more suited to your preferences. The Thunder Shadow's invigorating feedback and medium weight typing experience provide an immersive and satisfying typing sensation. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel, sound, and overall keyboard experience.
Mentioned in this article
