Bsun Cinnamon Pink vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Bsun Cinnamon Pink and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Cinnamon Pink linear switch to the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, there are distinct differences in their characteristics and feel. The Cinnamon Pink is praised for its clacky yet subtle sound, smooth action, and medium-light typing feel, making it a comfortable choice for those who enjoy a polished and frictionless typing experience. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offers a high level of tactility with deep, resonating thocks when typing, appealing to those who prefer a sharper and more pronounced tactile feedback. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
42g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.45 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage nickel-plated spring
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Cinnamon Pink and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, it is evident that both switches utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Cinnamon Pink features a POM top and bottom housing, which creates a deep and muted sound profile. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring utilizes a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound. The differences in material composition lead to distinct sound profiles, with POM offering a more subdued tone while polycarbonate provides a more vibrant and clear sound.
Aesthetically, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, giving the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring an advantage in terms of visual appeal. On the other hand, the opaque POM material of the Cinnamon Pink may appeal to those seeking a more classic and understated look. Despite their differences, both switches offer unique sound profiles thanks to their respective housing materials. The Cinnamon Pink's POM housings contribute to a deeper and more muted sound, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's polycarbonate housings produce a sharper and more resonant sound.
Ultimately, the choice between the Bsun Cinnamon Pink and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring comes down to personal preference in sound and aesthetics. While the Cinnamon Pink offers a softer and more muted sound due to its POM housings, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring provides a sharper and more crisp sound with its polycarbonate housings. Both switches showcase the impact that housing materials can have on the overall sound profile of a switch, as well as the importance of considering the visual appeal when incorporating RGB lighting. Whether seeking a classic sound or a more vibrant tone, there is a housing material and switch design to suit every preference.
Weight
The Bsun Cinnamon Pink linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch have noticeable differences in actuation and bottom out forces. The Cinnamon Pink has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 42 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a gentler typing experience. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offers a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel. This means that the Cinnamon Pink is lighter overall, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is heavier. Different users may prefer one over the other based on their typing preferences, with lighter switches being suitable for longer typing sessions and heavier switches offering a more tactile typing experience. If both switches had the same forces, users could expect similar results in terms of typing feel and performance.
Travel distance
The Bsun Cinnamon Pink linear switch has a travel distance of 3.45 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Cinnamon Pink offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring provides a more substantial keypress feel with its longer travel distance, appealing to those who prefer a deeper actuation. Both switches offer unique advantages based on their travel distances, catering to different preferences for typing or gaming experiences. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on the individual's preference for response time and keypress depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Cinnamon Pink has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cinnamon Pink for $3.83.
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, both the Bsun Cinnamon Pink and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches are described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. The Cinnamon Pink switches offer a distinctively clacky yet not overpowering sound, while the Shadow switches take it a step further with deep, resonating thocks. The choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference for the level of sharpness and resonance desired in the keyboard sound.
In terms of feel, the Cinnamon Pink switches are known for their creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, and easy-to-press qualities, offering a smooth and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches are characterized as sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped, providing a high level of tactility with a distinct tactile bump. The decision between the two would depend on whether the user prefers a smoother typing experience or a more pronounced tactile feedback.
Overall, both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Cinnamon Pink linear switches excel in delivering a clacky yet smooth typing experience, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switches offer a high level of tactility with sharp feedback. Whether one prefers a softer, more fluid typing experience or a more tactile and pronounced feel, both switches provide an engaging and enjoyable typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on individual preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Bsun Cinnamon Pink linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prioritize a smooth and comfortable typing feel with a distinctively clacky sound, opt for the Cinnamon Pink switch. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with medium-high tactility and deep resonating thocks when typing, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is the way to go. Each switch offers its unique qualities, so assess your typing preferences to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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