Bsun Cliff vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Bsun Cliff and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Cliff and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring both offer unique tactile experiences that cater to different typing preferences. The Cliff is celebrated for its medium tactility and crisp sound signature, providing a satisfying yet unobtrusive feedback that many typists find appealing, especially in quieter environments. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring elevates the tactile experience with a medium-high tactility from its innovative long, two-staged spring design, yielding deep, resonating thocks that can enhance the auditory pleasure of typing. While the Cliff shines in its subtlety and precision, the Shadow offers a lively and pronounced feedback that some users may prefer for a more dynamic typing experience. Both switches have their distinct charm, making them suitable for various use cases, whether you're looking for a focused workspace or an engaging gaming setup. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
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 dual-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the Bsun Cliff and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches reveal both similarities and differences that affect their acoustic profiles and overall performance. Both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housings, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound experience. This similarity allows users to anticipate clear and resonant audio feedback when the keys are released, owing to polycarbonate’s stiffness and translucency, which also enhances RGB lighting aesthetics. Given this shared top housing material, users may expect a comparable auditory response when typing, though the unique characteristics of the bottom housing material are crucial in shaping the final sound profile.
In contrast to the polycarbonate top housing, the bottom housing materials differ significantly between the two switches. The Bsun Cliff features a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a deeper, fuller sound due to its softer nature. This contrasts with the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring’s polycarbonate bottom housing, which, like its top counterpart, leans towards a crisper and more resonant sound profile. Users typing on the Cliff can anticipate a rounded acoustic experience, while those using the Shadow will find a potentially sharper output. This difference emphasizes the role of materials: the nylon in the Cliff absorbs sound, contributing to a richer auditory experience, while the polycarbonate in the Shadow echoes with clarity.
Ultimately, the interplay between top and bottom housing materials in these switches informs their tactile and acoustic performance. For the Bsun Cliff, the softer nylon base ensures that the sound upon bottoming out is softer and resonant, promoting a more muted experience overall. Meanwhile, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring blends the properties of both polycarbonate housings, leading to a more pronounced acoustic feedback, especially noticeable upon key release. Users will find that while both switches utilize polycarbonate in the top, the tactile difference is primarily influenced by the nylon versus polycarbonate combination in the bottom housings, ultimately customizing the user experience in distinct ways.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, notable differences arise in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Cliff switch boasts a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming, as it requires less force to register keystrokes. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, offering a more substantial push that some users may prefer for a firmer typing experience. Consequently, those who value lighter switches will gravitate towards the Cliff, while those seeking a stronger feedback will favor the Shadow (Ink). Overall, users will achieve similar results in terms of tactile feedback but will experience different levels of physical strain depending on their choice of switch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Bsun Cliff has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring features a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Cliff offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers or users who prefer quicker response times due to the less distance the key travels before registering a press. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial depth during key presses might find the longer travel distance of the Shadow switch to be more satisfying. Overall, if you're looking for a snappier feel, the Bsun Cliff's travel distance would be more suitable, whereas those who favor a heartier keystroke would likely prefer the Aflion Shadow (Ink).
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Cliff has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cliff for $2.19.
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 Cliff tactile switch is characterized by a crisp sound signature that adds a satisfying auditory feedback while typing. It's notable for a clear, medium sound profile that doesn’t overwhelm, making it suitable for both quiet environments and bustling settings. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offers a more pronounced audio experience with its deep, resonating thocks, integrating a clacky and high-pitched quality to each keystroke. This stark difference promises a more dramatic auditory sensation with the Shadow variant, appealing to those who appreciate more vibrant sound characteristics in their typing experience.
Regarding the feel, the Cliff tactile switch presents a medium level of tactility, characterized by a crisp and defined feedback that allows typists to easily discern key presses. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offers a medium-high level of tactility that is sharper and snappier, providing an elevated tactile bump that is distinctly felt with every keystroke. The Shadow switch's unique dual-staged spring contributes to its bouncy and lively responsiveness, accompanied by a stepped feel that balances feedback intensity without feeling overwhelming. As such, typists may find that while both switches deliver enjoyable typing experiences, the Shadow offers a more pronounced tactile engagement.
In conclusion, the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Cliff provides a crisp and clear sound alongside a medium tactility for a refined typing experience, while the Shadow switch delivers deep, resonant audio paired with sharp tactile feedback that’s more pronounced. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on whether one prioritizes a more subdued yet precise typing feel or desires a lively, textured experience combined with engaging sound dynamics.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the choice between the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences regarding actuation force, sound profile, and tactile feedback. If you value a lighter keystroke with a crisp sound signature and a medium level of tactility, the Cliff would be an excellent fit, especially for extended typing sessions or casual gaming, where ease of actuation is paramount. On the other hand, if you prefer a more robust typing experience with a pronounced tactile bump and deeper auditory feedback, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, with its 63-gram actuation force and resonant thock, would provide the tactile richness and responsive feeling you seek, making it ideal for fast-paced gaming or typing where feedback is essential. Ultimately, consider how each switch aligns with your typing style and preferences; whether you lean towards a lighter, snappier feel or a more substantial, acoustically satisfying experience will guide your decision in selecting the right switch for your keyboard.
Mentioned in this article
