Bsun Pine vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the Bsun Pine and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, one may come across the Bsun Pine, a tactile switch known for its sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out. On the other hand, there is the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, another tactile switch with a medium level of tactility and a lower actuation and bottom-out force. While the Pine offers a direct and no-nonsense tactile feedback, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring provides a more approachable tactility and a deep, thocky sound profile. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Polycarbonate
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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
The main difference between the Bsun Pine and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring lies in their bottom housing material. The Pine uses nylon for its bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile because of polycarbonate's stiffer composition. This means that the typing experience on these switches would be noticeably different, with the Pine offering a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper and more resonant sound of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring.
On the other hand, both the Bsun Pine and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring feature polycarbonate top housings. This results in a similar sound profile for both switches, with a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, making it a practical choice for those looking to customize their keyboard with colorful lighting effects. Therefore, if RGB lighting is a key feature you are looking for in a switch, both the Pine and the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring would provide a visually appealing option with their polycarbonate top housing.
Overall, the choice between the Bsun Pine and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile. The Pine offers a deeper and fuller typing sound due to its nylon bottom housing, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring provides a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate bottom housing. Both switches will have a similar sound profile when it comes to the top housing material, so if RGB lighting is a priority, you can expect similar results from either switch in terms of visual aesthetics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Bsun Pine tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The Bsun Pine has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Aflion Shadow's 48 grams, making the Pine slightly easier to type with. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Pine requires a heavier 65 grams compared to the Shadow's 55 grams, resulting in a more substantial typing experience with the Pine. Both switches offer a medium-heavy actuation force, but the Pine is heavier at bottoming out. Therefore, users who prefer a lighter typing experience might favor the Aflion Shadow, while those looking for a more solid and weighted feel might opt for the Bsun Pine. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Bsun Pine tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Bsun Pine switch. The shorter travel distance of the Bsun Pine switch may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch may provide a more substantial feeling when pressed. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Pine has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $3.70.
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single 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) Single 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
In terms of sound, the BSUN Pine switches are known for providing a clear and crisp sound profile, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches offer a deep and thocky sound. The sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the BSUN Pine switches are described as having an invigorating and sharp tactile bump, providing a distinctive and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches are characterized as bouncy, offering a spring-like and lively keypress sensation. Both switches offer different levels of tactility, with the Pine switches being more accentuated and sharp, while the Shadow Single Spring switches provide a more approachable and bouncy feel.
In conclusion, the BSUN Pine tactile switches are favored for their direct and quick tactility, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switches are recommended for those seeking a medium level of tactility with a softer feel. Both switches offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Whether you choose the Pine or Shadow switches, you can expect a satisfying typing experience with distinct tactile feedback.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the BSUN Pine tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, consider your preference for tactility and bottom out force. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and sharp, invigorating tactility, the BSUN Pine switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force with a bouncy, approachable tactility, you may find the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal typing preferences and the type of typing experience you are looking for.
Mentioned in this article
