Bsun Avocado vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Bsun Avocado and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the BSUN Avocado and Aflion Windy Shadow offer distinct typing experiences. The BSUN Avocado is a tactile switch that boasts a snappy, responsive bump and a smooth downstroke, creating a satisfying tactile feedback without being overwhelming. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow is a linear switch known for its neutral sound profile and distinctive bounce from the extended spring, providing a comfortable medium-light feel with a 55g bottom-out force. Each switch has its unique characteristics that cater to different preferences - the Avocado for those who appreciate accented and sharp tactility, while the Windy Shadow for those who prefer a low-pitched and mild typing experience. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
19.7mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Avocado and the Aflion Windy Shadow are quite similar in terms of their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is known for being a relatively stiffer plastic, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially useful for switches with RGB lighting. Overall, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of these switches results in a similar sound and aesthetic experience.
However, the differences between the two switches can be found in their nylon bottom housing. The Avocado and the Windy Shadow both use nylon in their bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. Nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound that can be felt when typing on these switches. While the top housing may have a more significant impact on the sound when letting go of a key, the bottom housing plays a crucial role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
In essence, while the Bsun Avocado and the Aflion Windy Shadow share similar qualities in their polycarbonate top housing, their nylon bottom housing provides a distinct difference in sound profile and typing experience. The Avocado's nylon bottom housing gives it a deeper and fuller sound, while the Windy Shadow's nylon bottom housing creates a similar effect. Both switches offer a unique combination of materials that contribute to their overall sound and feel, catering to different preferences in mechanical keyboard users.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Avocado tactile switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, it is evident that there are differences in weight. The Avocado has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it medium-heavy. In contrast, the Windy Shadow has an actuation force of None grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it medium-light. This means that the Avocado requires a slightly heavier touch to activate a keystroke compared to the Windy Shadow. The Avocado also has a higher bottom out force, indicating that it may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow's lighter actuation force may be more suitable for prolonged typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference, with the Avocado being heavier and the Windy Shadow being lighter in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Bsun Avocado tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, with the Avocado being slightly shorter than the Windy Shadow. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Avocado due to its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the Windy Shadow with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, both switches offer a tactile experience but cater to different preferences in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Avocado has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Avocado for $4.00.
The Aflion Windy 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 Windy 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 Bsun Avocado switch offers a mild, neutral sound profile that complements its tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch presents a low-pitched and neutral sound, adding a unique characteristic to the typing sensation. Both switches aim to provide an unobtrusive sound backdrop, making them suitable for various settings and preferences. It's important to note that the overall sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Bsun Avocado offers an invigorating and sharp tactile feedback, creating a dynamic typing sensation. Its snappy and accented tactility enhances the overall typing experience, ensuring a satisfying engagement with each keypress. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow switch boasts a mild feel, offering a more gentle typing experience that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone. The extended spring in the Windy Shadow adds a distinctive bounce that contributes to its unique feel.
In conclusion, the Bsun Avocado tactile switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch each bring their own set of subjective qualities to the table. While the Avocado focuses on providing a sharp and invigorating tactile experience with a mild sound profile, the Windy Shadow offers a low-pitched sound with a mild and gentle feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel, ensuring that users can find a switch that best suits their typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the BSUN Avocado tactile switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, consider your preference for bottom-out force, tactility, sound profile, and typing experience. If you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom-out force and a tactile switch with a pronounced and snappy feedback, the Avocado is an excellent choice for a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom-out force and a linear switch with a more neutral sound profile and a gentle typing feel, the Windy Shadow would be the ideal option for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches boils down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for.
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