Bsun Guyu vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the Bsun Guyu and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Bsun Guyu and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring are two distinct mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique experiences for different preferences. The Guyu is a linear switch known for its exceptional auditory experience, with all-POM housings and a long pole stem creating a bright and crisp sound upon bottoming out. Its medium weight and high-grade UPE stem provide smooth keystrokes, making typing sessions effortless with resonant feedback. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is a tactile switch ideal for those seeking a medium level of tactility. With a lower actuation and bottom-out force, it offers approachable tactility and a deep, thocky sound profile. While the Guyu is characterized as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'Frictionless', 'Polished', 'Silky', and 'Snappy', the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is categorized as 'Bouncy'. These switches cater to different preferences and typing styles, so choosing between them depends on individual preferences and requirements. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
N/A
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
UPE
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
21mm spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Guyu and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, one can see clear differences in terms of the sound profiles they produce. The Guyu's POM top and bottom housings create a deep and muted sound, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's polycarbonate housings produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This difference in sound can be attributed to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially suitable for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, adding a visual element to the auditory experience.
While the sound profiles of the two housing materials differ, they both offer unique qualities that contribute to the overall typing experience. The POM housing of the Bsun Guyu provides a pleasing and unique sound that is on the deeper side, creating a distinct feel when typing. On the other hand, the polycarbonate housing of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring delivers a sharper and crisper sound profile, adding a level of precision and clarity to each keystroke. Despite these differences, both housing materials offer a satisfying typing feel that can cater to different preferences and typing styles.
When considering the impact of the top and bottom housings on the overall typing experience, it becomes evident that the qualities of each material are distributed accordingly. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. This division of qualities allows for a more nuanced typing experience, with each aspect of the housing material contributing to the overall sound and feel of the switch. Ultimately, whether one prefers the deep and muted sound of POM or the sharp and crisp sound of polycarbonate, both housing materials offer unique characteristics that enhance the typing experience in their own way.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsnu Guyu linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, we can see that the Guyu is lighter in both aspects. The Guyu has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, whereas the Shadow (Ink) has an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. Both switches provide a relatively light typing experience, making them suitable for extended use. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Guyu more appealing, while the Shadow (Ink) offers a slightly more resistance for users who prefer a bit of a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Bsun Guyu linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. Despite this small difference, both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Guyu for faster response times, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press might lean towards the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch. 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 Guyu has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Guyu for $3.70.
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single 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) Single 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
In terms of sound, the Bsun Guyu linear switch stands out for its clacky characteristics, producing a sharp and snappy sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch offers a deep and thocky sound profile, enhancing the typing experience with a satisfying auditory feedback. While both switches have their own unique sound profiles, the ultimate sound experience can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel aspect, the Guyu switch is renowned for its creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience. These qualities translate into a smooth and effortless keystroke, with minimal resistance and maximum comfort. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch offers a bouncy sensation, providing a spring-like and elastic feedback that gives the keys a lively rebound when pressed. Whether you prefer a silky glide or a bouncy feel, both switches offer a tactile experience that caters to different typing preferences.
In conclusion, the Bsun Guyu linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch offer distinctive qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Guyu switch boasts a clacky sound profile and a creamy, frictionless typing experience, the Shadow (Ink) switch provides a deep thocky sound and a bouncy tactile feedback. Whether you prioritize auditory feedback or tactile feel, both switches cater to different preferences and can enhance your typing experience in unique ways. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking to achieve.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Bsun Guyu linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, you should consider your preference for sound and feel. If you value a unique auditory experience with a balance of depth and clarity, along with a smooth keystroke and resonant feedback, then the Guyu may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with approachable tactility and a deep, thocky sound profile, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch could be the better option. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and what type of typing experience you enjoy the most.
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