Bsun Pine vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Bsun Pine and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Pine and Aflion Windy Shadow offer unique qualities that appeal to different preferences. The Bsun Pine is a tactile switch known for its sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out, providing direct and no-nonsense tactility. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow is a linear switch that offers a neutral sound profile and a distinctive bounce from its extended spring, with a comfortable 55g bottom-out. Each switch is categorized differently, with the Pine being described as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', 'Snappy' and the Windy Shadow as 'Low-pitched', 'Mild', 'Neutral'. 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
2.00 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
19.7mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Pine and the Aflion Windy Shadow both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing materials, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that creates a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that feature RGB lighting. Despite both keyboards sharing this top housing material, the different designs and construction of the switches may lead to slight variations in sound and feel.
On the other hand, both the Pine and the Windy Shadow feature nylon bottom housings. Nylon is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softness and sound-absorbing properties. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics, providing a unique typing experience for users of both keyboards. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of these switches allows for a more tactile and satisfying feel when pressing down on the keys.
While the top and bottom housings of the Bsun Pine and Aflion Windy Shadow differ in material, the qualities brought by each material are divided between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing impacts the sound when a key is released. This split between the two housing materials allows for a dynamic typing experience that combines the best of both worlds in terms of sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Pine tactile switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, we can see some noticeable differences. The Pine has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it medium-heavy. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow has an actuation force of None grams (unknown) and a bottom out force of 55 grams, classifying it as medium-light. The Pine offers a stronger push feel overall compared to the Windy Shadow. For those who prefer a lighter switch, the Windy Shadow would be the better choice, as its bottom out force is lighter. However, for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a heavier force, the Pine would be the preferred option. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on personal preferences regarding typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Bsun Pine 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 Windy Shadow being slightly longer. Gamers may prefer the Pine switch for its slightly shorter travel distance, allowing for faster response times during gameplay. On the other hand, those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes may opt for the Windy Shadow switch. Ultimately, the difference in travel distance between the two switches is minimal, so users can expect similar results in terms of key feel 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 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 Pine tactile switch is known for its sharp, distinctive click that provides a satisfying auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, which is more mellow and less accentuated than the Pine switch. The sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors like the keyboard and keycaps used, so both switches can provide a pleasant typing experience in different ways.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Pine tactile switch is characterized by its invigorating, sharp, and snappy tactile feedback, making typing on it an immersive and responsive experience. In comparison, the Windy Shadow linear switch offers a mild feel that is gentle and approachable to most users. While the Pine switch provides a more pronounced tactility, the Windy Shadow switch offers a smoother and more uniform typing experience that is comfortable for extended use.
In conclusion, the BSUN Pine tactile switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Pine switch is renowned for its sharp tactile bump and direct feedback, while the Windy Shadow switch provides a neutral sound profile and a comfortable typing experience. Both switches have their unique strengths, and the choice between them ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style. Ultimately, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch, as each offers its own set of advantages for different types of typists.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the BSUN Pine tactile switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out with distinct feedback, the Pine switch may be ideal for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a neutral sound profile and a comfortable medium-light bottom-out with a gentle typing experience, the Windy Shadow switch could be a better fit. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to your personal preference for tactility and typing feel. Happy typing!
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