Bsun Kiki Red vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the Bsun Kiki Red and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch to the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, it's important to consider the differences in their typing experiences. The Kiki Reds offer a finely-tuned typing experience with a high-pitched, clacky nuance that is not overly loud. With all-POM housings and smooth Ly stems, these switches provide a subtle auditory feedback and smooth actuation, making them a preferred choice for those who appreciate finesse in performance. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch offers a medium level of tactility with a lower actuation and bottom-out force, providing a very approachable tactile experience. The deep and thocky sound profile adds to the overall typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on individual preferences for auditory feedback and typing feel. 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
42g
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
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
20.4mm single-stage nickel-plated spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Kiki Red and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches offer a stark contrast in terms of sound profiles. The Kiki Red's POM housing creates a deeper, more muted sound, whereas the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's polycarbonate housing yields a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This difference is attributed to the properties of the materials used, with POM being known for its softer characteristics compared to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for a more visually appealing switch, especially when coupled with RGB lighting.
In terms of housing composition, the Bsun Kiki Red and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches diverge once again. The Kiki Red features a POM bottom housing, creating a sound profile consistent with its top housing. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, contributing to the sharper, crisper sound profile associated with this switch. This split in housing materials emphasizes the impact each component has on the overall sound and feel of the switch, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing shapes the sound upon key release.
While the housing materials of the Bsun Kiki Red and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches differ in their composition and resulting sound profiles, both options offer unique qualities that cater to individual preferences. Whether you prefer the deeper, muted sound of POM or the sharper, crisper sound of polycarbonate, each switch provides a distinct typing experience. Additionally, the use of translucent polycarbonate allows for a visually striking switch, particularly when illuminated with RGB lighting. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference regarding sound, feel, and aesthetics.
Weight
The Bsun Kiki Red linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams compared to the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 48 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Kiki Red requires 50 grams, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring needs 55 grams, making the latter slightly heavier in this aspect as well. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Kiki Red switch for longer typing or gaming sessions, while individuals looking for a more substantial typing feel may opt for the slightly heavier actuation and bottom out force of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Bsun Kiki Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the shorter option compared to the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Kiki Red's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the slightly longer travel distance of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper feel. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Kiki Red being on the shorter side and the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring on the longer side. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for key press feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Kiki Red has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Kiki Red for $3.83.
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 Kiki Red linear switch is best known for its clacky sound profile, offering a sharp and snappy noise when pressed. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch features a deep and thocky sound profile, providing a more subdued and satisfying auditory experience. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the Kiki Red leaning towards a lighter and crisper sound, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offers a deeper and more solid sound.
When it comes to feel, the Bsun Kiki Red switch is known for its creamy, frictionless, and polished typing experience, offering a smooth and refined feel with minimal resistance. The switch is also described as silky and easy-to-press, providing a comfortable and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is characterized by its bouncy feedback sensation, giving the keys a lively and spring-like feel. While the Kiki Red offers a polished and smooth typing experience, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring provides a more tactile and responsive feel with its bouncy feedback.
In conclusion, both the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Kiki Red excels in providing a clacky and subtly tactile typing experience with a comfortably high-pitched sound profile, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring stands out for its deep and thocky sound with a bouncy tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for sound and typing feel, but users can expect a distinct and enjoyable typing experience with either switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a finely-tuned typing experience with a comfortably high-pitched, clacky sound and smooth actuation, the Kiki Red may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility and a deep, thocky sound profile, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for sound, feel, and typing experience. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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