Bsun Kiki Red vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the Bsun Kiki Red and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Kiki Red and Aflion Thunder Shadow stand out as popular choices in their respective categories. The Kiki Red is a linear switch known for its comfortably high-pitched, clacky nuance without being excessively loud, thanks to its all-POM housing and smooth actuation facilitated by Ly stems. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow is a tactile switch by Aflion, offering a pronounced tactile bump and a medium weight feel for a balanced typing experience. While the Kiki Red is preferred by enthusiasts who appreciate subtlety in auditory feedback and finesse in performance, the Thunder Shadow caters to those looking for a harmonious balance and neutral sound signature. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
20.4mm single-stage nickel-plated spring
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Kiki Red and the Aflion Thunder Shadow, it is clear that they offer distinct sound profiles due to their different materials. The Kiki Red's POM top housing creates a deeper, more muted sound, while the Thunder Shadow's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound. In terms of aesthetics, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, offering a visually appealing component. On the other hand, the Kiki Red's POM bottom housing also contributes to its unique sound profile, adding to the overall typing experience. The Thunder Shadow's nylon bottom housing, being softer and more sound-absorbent, helps create a deeper and fuller sound when typing.
Despite the differences in their housing materials, both the Bsun Kiki Red and the Aflion Thunder Shadow aim to provide an enjoyable typing experience for users. The use of POM in the Kiki Red's housing offers a pleasing sound profile that may appeal to those who prefer a deeper, more muted sound. In contrast, the Thunder Shadow's polycarbonate and nylon housings cater to different preferences, with polycarbonate offering a crisper, higher-pitched sound while nylon creates a rounder, fuller sound. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
It is important to note that the top and bottom housings of a switch play different roles in determining the overall sound and feel of typing. The bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. This means that the specific combination of housing materials used in a switch, such as in the Bsun Kiki Red and Aflion Thunder Shadow, can greatly affect the overall typing experience. Whether one prefers the deeper, muted sound of POM or the sharper, crisper sound of polycarbonate, these housing materials can make a significant difference in the way a keyboard feels and sounds during use.
Weight
The Bsun Kiki Red linear switch is lighter in weight compared to the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch. The Kiki Red has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a light switch overall. In contrast, the Thunder Shadow has an actuation force that is unknown and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience that allows for longer typing sessions, the Kiki Red would be the better option. However, for those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel, the Thunder Shadow would be the preferred choice. Ultimately, the actuation force and bottom out force of each switch play a crucial role in determining the typing experience and overall comfort for the user.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch is 3.6 mm, while the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. The difference of 0.1 mm between the two switches may not be noticeable to some users, but for those who prefer a slightly deeper key press, the Kiki Red may be the better option. On the other hand, if you prioritize a quicker and more responsive typing experience, the Thunder Shadow could be the preferred choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 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 Kiki Red linear switch is known for its clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This adds a sense of crispness and brightness to typing, creating a distinct auditory experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch offers a neutral sound signature, ensuring a moderate sound profile that is suitable for various environments and preferences. Both switches offer unique sound qualities that cater to different preferences, with the Kiki Red leaning towards a more distinctive clacky sound and the Thunder Shadow providing a more versatile neutral sound profile.
In terms of feel, the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch offers a plethora of descriptors including creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, and easy-to-press. These descriptors highlight the smooth and effortless typing experience provided by the Kiki Red, with factors such as lubrication and material choice enhancing the overall feel of the switch. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch is described as invigorating, offering pronounced feedback and a snappy, reactive feel during typing. This creates an immersive and engaging typing sensation that caters to individuals who prefer a more tactile typing experience. Overall, both switches offer unique tactile qualities that cater to different preferences, with the Kiki Red focusing on smoothness and ease of use, while the Thunder Shadow emphasizes feedback and responsiveness.
In conclusion, the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Kiki Red excels in providing a clacky sound profile and a smooth, creamy typing experience, whereas the Thunder Shadow offers a neutral sound signature and an invigorating tactile feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches provide unique typing experiences that cater to different needs. Whether you prefer a sharper auditory feedback with a smoother typing experience or a more balanced sound profile with pronounced tactile feedback, both the Kiki Red and the Thunder Shadow offer exceptional qualities that can enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch or the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences for typing experience. If you value a medium-light weighting, a clacky sound profile, and a smooth, frictionless feel, the Kiki Red may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium weight feel with a neutral sound signature, pronounced tactile feedback, and an invigorating typing sensation, the Thunder Shadow might be more suited to your typing style. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so consider what aspects are most important to you when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between the Kiki Red and Thunder Shadow comes down to what type of typing experience you are looking for.
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