Bsun Cinnamon Pink vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the Bsun Cinnamon Pink and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Cinnamon Pink linear switch with the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, it becomes evident that both offer unique features to cater to different preferences. The Cinnamon Pink switches are praised for their distinctive clacky sound without being overpowering, thanks to their Ly-infused stems that provide a smooth typing experience. With a medium-light typing feel and categorized as 'easy-to-press', these switches offer a comfortable yet engaging typing experience. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow switches from Aflion boast a pronounced tactile bump and a medium weight feel, perfect for those who prefer a more invigorating typing experience. Categorized as 'neutral', these switches exhibit a harmonious balance and a neutral sound signature. Both switches have their own strengths and 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
37g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
42g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.45 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage nickel-plated spring
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Cinnamon Pink and Aflion Thunder Shadow switches offer contrasting sound profiles due to their POM and polycarbonate top housings, respectively. The POM top housing of the Cinnamon Pink produces a deeper and more muted sound, creating a unique auditory experience. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing of the Thunder Shadow generates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, attributed to its stiffer nature. This difference in sound quality highlights the impact of top housing material on the overall typing experience.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Cinnamon Pink's POM bottom housing mirrors the sound profile of its top housing, providing a deeper and more muted typing experience. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow's nylon bottom housing enhances the sound profile with a fuller and deeper sound, thanks to nylon's sound absorption properties. This difference in bottom housing material showcases how the material used can significantly affect the overall sound profile of a switch, offering users a variety of auditory experiences to choose from based on their preferences.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and typing experience. While the Cinnamon Pink and Thunder Shadow switches offer contrasting sound profiles due to their POM and polycarbonate housing materials, respectively, users can expect similar results in terms of the impact of top and bottom housing on sound quality. Whether users prefer a deeper, more muted sound or a sharper, crisper sound, the housing materials of these switches provide a range of options to cater to diverse preferences in mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Bsun Cinnamon Pink linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, whose actuation force is unknown. The Cinnamon Pink also has a lighter bottom out force of 42 grams, while the Thunder Shadow has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams. This means that the Cinnamon Pink switch provides a lighter typing experience overall, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Thunder Shadow switch offers a more substantial typing experience with a heavier actuation force and bottom out force. So, depending on personal preference, users can choose between the lighter Cinnamon Pink switch or the heavier Thunder Shadow switch for their specific typing needs.
Travel distance
The Bsun Cinnamon Pink linear switch has a travel distance of 3.45 mm, while the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them favorable for users seeking faster response times, such as gamers. However, the Thunder Shadow has a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more substantial feel when typing compared to the Cinnamon Pink. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing experience.
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 Thunder 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 Thunder 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
When it comes to sound, the Bsun Cinnamon Pink linear switch is known for its distinctively clacky sound, characterized by a sharp and snappy noise that is bright and percussive. In contrast, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch offers a more neutral sound profile, suitable for various purposes and environments. Both switches provide unique auditory experiences that cater to different preferences, with the Cinnamon Pink offering a more lively and engaging sound, while the Thunder Shadow provides a more balanced and versatile sound signature.
In terms of feel, the Bsun Cinnamon Pink linear switch is praised for its creamy, frictionless, and polished typing experience, offering a smooth and effortless tactile sensation with minimal resistance. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch is described as invigorating, providing pronounced feedback and a snappy, reactive feel that creates an immersive typing sensation. While both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, the Cinnamon Pink focuses on delivering a silky and easy-to-press feel, ideal for extended typing sessions, whereas the Thunder Shadow prioritizes a firm actuation force and tactile feedback for a more tactile typing experience.
Overall, the Bsun Cinnamon Pink linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Cinnamon Pink excels in providing a clacky and engaging sound paired with a smooth and comfortable typing experience, making it suitable for users who prefer a lively auditory experience and a gentle keystroke feel. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow stands out with its neutral sound signature and invigorating tactile feedback, catering to those who seek a more balanced sound profile and a tactile typing sensation. Whichever switch you choose, you can expect a high-quality typing experience tailored to your preferences and needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the BSUN Cinnamon Pink linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you prefer a light typing feel with a distinctive clacky sound, the Cinnamon Pink may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium weight tactile bump with a neutral sound profile, the Thunder Shadow could be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you value most. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and sound preferences.
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