Bsun Dragon Fruit vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the Bsun Dragon Fruit and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Dragon Fruit and Aflion Thunder Shadow both offer unique features that cater to tactile switch enthusiasts. The Bsun Dragon Fruit stands out for its long pole stem, providing a sharp and definitive bottom-out that is sure to satisfy those seeking significant tactile feedback. Paired with a clacky sound signature, the Dragon Fruit offers a lively typing experience that engages both the sense of touch and hearing. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow by Aflion introduces a pronounced tactile bump while maintaining a harmonious balance, resulting in a medium weight feel with a 63.5g bottom-out. With a neutral sound signature, the Thunder Shadow showcases Aflion's commitment to fine-tuned innovation. Both switches bring their own unique characteristics to the table, making them appealing choices for 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Dragon Fruit and the Aflion Thunder Shadow, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to polycarbonate's stiffness and clarity. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. Despite both switches employing the same material for their top housing, the unique design and construction of each switch may still result in slight variations in sound and feel.
On the other hand, the Dragon Fruit and Thunder Shadow differ in their choice of material for the bottom housing, with the Dragon Fruit utilizing nylon while the Thunder Shadow also opting for nylon. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use nylon for the bottom housing. Despite both switches sharing the same material for the bottom housing, the feel and sound profile may still differ slightly based on the unique design and construction of each switch.
When considering the impact of using different housing materials for the top and bottom of a switch, it's important to note the split in qualities each material brings to the overall typing experience. The bottom housing has a more significant effect on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing plays a larger role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, even though the Dragon Fruit and Thunder Shadow share similarities in their housing materials, the slight variations in design and construction may result in differences in typing feel and sound profile between the two switches.
Weight
Both the Bsun Dragon Fruit and Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switches have a medium-heavy bottom out force, with the Dragon Fruit being slightly heavier at 65 grams compared to the Thunder Shadow's 63.5 grams. However, the actuation force differs between the two switches, as the Dragon Fruit requires 45 grams of force to actuate, while the Thunder Shadow's actuation force is unknown. The Dragon Fruit offers a slightly lighter actuation force, which may appeal to those who prefer a softer touch when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow's heavier bottom out force may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who like a stronger push feel. Overall, while the bottom out forces are fairly similar, the actuation force sets these two switches apart in terms of typing experience.
Travel distance
Regarding travel distance, the Bsun Dragon Fruit tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 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, with the Thunder Shadow being slightly longer. Gamers may lean towards the Dragon Fruit for a slightly quicker response time, while those who appreciate a bit more depth in their keystrokes may opt for the Thunder Shadow. Ultimately, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to traditional switches, providing a similar experience in terms of key press feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Dragon Fruit has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Dragon Fruit 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
In terms of sound, the Bsun Dragon Fruit switch offers a clacky sound signature, providing a lively and engaging typing experience. In contrast, the Aflion Thunder Shadow switch has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes without being too loud or distracting. Both switches offer different sound experiences, with the Dragon Fruit being more distinct and attention-grabbing, while the Thunder Shadow is more subdued and versatile.
When it comes to feel, the Bsun Dragon Fruit switch is described as accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy, offering a medium tactile experience with a definitive tactile bump. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow switch is also described as invigorating, providing pronounced feedback and a reactive feel. Both switches offer a satisfying typing sensation with their tactile feedback, making them ideal for users who enjoy a tactile typing experience.
Overall, the Bsun Dragon Fruit and Aflion Thunder Shadow switches offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel. While the Dragon Fruit switch excels in providing a distinctive clacky sound and a sharp tactile bump, the Thunder Shadow switch offers a more balanced and neutral sound profile with a responsive typing sensation. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, ensuring that users will get similar results in terms of tactile feedback and overall typing satisfaction.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the BSUN Dragon Fruit tactile switch or the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a sharper, more pronounced tactile bump with a clacky sound signature, then the Dragon Fruit may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a balanced tactile feel and a neutral sound profile, the Thunder Shadow could be the better choice. Both switches offer a medium-heavy bottom out force, so it's all about whether you prioritize the specific characteristics each switch brings to the table. Ultimately, the decision between the Dragon Fruit and Thunder Shadow switches will depend on what type of typing experience you are looking for.
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