Bsun Chiikawa - 28g vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch present two distinct options that cater to different typing preferences and styles. The Chiikawa - 28g is celebrated for its exceptionally light actuation force and bright sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those who favor a quick and responsive keystroke with a crisp, high-pitched auditory feedback. This can enhance the typing experience, especially for gamers or fast typists who appreciate swift key presses. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offers a medium-high level of tactility, characterized by its unique two-staged spring design that delivers a satisfying thock sound with each key press. This switch is tailored for individuals who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feel while typing, providing a sense of engagement and feedback that can enhance accuracy and typing enjoyment. Both switches offer distinct advantages, depending on whether you prioritize responsiveness and sound or tactile feedback and depth of sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities, so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
28g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
34g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Y3X
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
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
When it comes to the housing materials of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches, both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which leads to a similar sound profile characterized by sharpness and clarity. The use of polycarbonate, a stiffer plastic, contributes to a higher-pitched and crisper auditory response, making it particularly suitable for users who appreciate a more defined sound when typing. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate enhances the aesthetic qualities of the switches, particularly in setups with RGB lighting. As a result, both switches are designed to produce a comparable sound when the key is released, ensuring that typists enjoy a pronounced auditory experience across both models.
The primary distinction between the Chiikawa - 28g and the Aflion Shadow lies in their bottom housing materials. The Chiikawa utilizes a nylon bottom housing, renowned for its ability to deliver a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon’s softer properties, which absorb more sound and create a rounder tone. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring features a polycarbonate bottom housing, thereby retaining the sharper and clearer sound profile associated with this material. Consequently, while the top housings of both switches provide similar auditory feedback during key release, the bottom housings will diverge in their impact on the keypress sounds and tactile feedback experienced during usage.
Ultimately, the combination of housing materials in both switches means that the Chiikawa - 28g and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring will deliver a distinctive typing experience, with each switch blending its respective sound qualities distinctly. Users can expect a crisp and resonant response from the Chiikawa when releasing keys due to its polycarbonate top, while the nylon bottom will add fullness during key impacts. Conversely, the Shadow’s polycarbonate bottom will enhance the sharpness consistently throughout the typing experience. Thus, while both switches share commonalities in their top housing, their bottom housings will shape the overall auditory profile, resulting in unique textures and sounds for each switch during use.
Weight
The Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch offer different experiences due to their distinct actuation and bottom out forces. The Chiikawa switch has a lighter actuation force of 28 grams and a bottom out force of 34 grams, making it suitable for prolonged typing sessions, as it requires less effort to press down, benefitting those who prefer a lighter touch. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) switch features a substantially heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, providing a more tactile and substantial typing experience for users who favor a stronger push feel. The significant difference in actuation force indicates that those who choose the Chiikawa switch are likely to find it more comfortable for extended use, while the heavier Shadow switch may satisfy users seeking a more resistant feel. Thus, the Chiikawa is the lighter option suited for comfort, while the Aflion Shadow is the heavier choice that delivers a more robust typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, it is evident that the Chiikawa has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Shadow (Ink) boasts a slightly longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This slight difference can impact the typing experience significantly; those who favor quicker response times, such as gamers, might prefer the Chiikawa for its shorter travel distance, which allows for faster actuation. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) offers a more traditional feel with its 4.0 mm travel distance, which can be more satisfying for users who appreciate a deeper key press. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on personal preference, with the Chiikawa catering more to those looking for speed and the Shadow (Ink) appealing to those who enjoy a more substantial tactile response.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Chiikawa - 28g has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Chiikawa - 28g for $3.29.
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, the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch presents a bright and sharp auditory experience. This switch produces a crisp, high-pitched sound that makes each keystroke feel lively and responsive. Typing on this switch can be quite satisfying for those who prefer a more pronounced and upbeat sound profile. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch offers a deeper, resonating thock that evokes a rich, bassy experience. While the Shadow switch produces a clacky sound—characterized by its sharp and snappy quality—it contrasts with the higher-pitched tones of the Chiikawa, providing a different auditory landscape for users, though both can differ based on the board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Chiikawa - 28g is defined by its very light actuation force, which allows for a smooth, almost effortless typing experience that is perfect for rapid key presses; however, specific tactile feedback details for this switch aren't provided. On the flip side, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch excels in delivering a pronounced tactile experience. This switch features a strong and crisp tactile bump that is distinct with each keystroke, making it feel snappy and responsive. Additionally, the dual-staged spring lends a bouncy quality that adds an engaging depth to the typing experience, enhancing feedback through its stepped design. The combination creates a feel that is both lively and attentive to the user's actions.
In conclusion, those seeking different auditory and tactile experiences will find both the Chiikawa - 28g linear and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switches appealing in their own right. With the bright, lightweight sound profile of the Chiikawa providing a more upbeat typing experience, compared to the deep, resonating thock of the Shadow switch, each serves distinct user preferences for sound. The Chiikawa's lightweight feel contrasts with the pronounced tactility and responsiveness of the Shadow switch. Choosing between the two will ultimately depend on whether one prioritizes auditory clarity and lightness or a richer tactile sensation with a deeper sound profile.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, consider your typing style and what experience you wish to achieve. If you prefer a lightweight and responsive feel, along with a bright, high-pitched sound profile that enhances your typing experience, the Chiikawa - 28g is an excellent choice. It's ideal for fast typists or gamers who enjoy a crisp feedback on their keystrokes without a lot of resistance. Conversely, if you're looking for a more substantial typing experience with tactile feedback and a medium-high level of tactility, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring would serve you well. This switch excels in providing a pronounced tactile bump along with deep, resonating sounds that can make typing feel more engaging and satisfying. Ultimately, your preference for sound, feedback, and actuation force will determine which switch aligns best with your needs, whether it's the lightness of the Chiikawa or the tactile engagement of the Shadow.
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