Bsun Kiki Red vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Bsun Kiki Red and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between two popular linear mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Kiki Red and the Aflion Windy Shadow both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Kiki Red is praised for its finely-tuned typing experience, featuring a high-pitched, clacky nuance without being overly loud. The all-POM housing and smooth actuation of Ly stems provide a pleasing tactile experience for enthusiasts who value subtlety in auditory feedback and performance finesse. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow from Aflion stands out for its neutral sound profile and distinctive bounce from an extended spring, offering a comfortable medium-light 55g bottom-out feel. While the Kiki Red is described as 'clacky', 'creamy', and 'easy-to-press', the Windy Shadow is characterized as 'low-pitched', 'mild', and 'neutral'. 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
55g
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
19.7mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Kiki Red and the Aflion Windy Shadow, one can see distinct differences in the materials used. The Kiki Red utilizes POM for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a sound profile that is deep and muted. In contrast, the Windy Shadow features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. Additionally, the Windy Shadow's nylon bottom housing adds a deeper and fuller sound to the typing experience. These differences in housing materials lead to unique sound profiles for each switch.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Kiki Red and the Windy Shadow, both switches offer distinct advantages. The POM top and bottom housings of the Kiki Red create a cohesive sound profile that is pleasing and unique. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing of the Windy Shadow offers a crisper and more resonant sound, which is ideal for those looking for a sharper typing experience. Additionally, the nylon bottom housing of the Windy Shadow adds a depth to the sound that is not present in the Kiki Red. Ultimately, both switches provide a high-quality typing experience, albeit with different sound profiles.
In cases where the top and bottom housing materials differ in a switch, the qualities of each material will affect different aspects of the typing experience. The bottom housing material, whether it be POM or nylon, will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Conversely, the top housing material, whether it be POM or polycarbonate, will influence the sound when releasing a key. While the Kiki Red and the Windy Shadow offer contrasting sound profiles due to their housing materials, both switches provide a unique and enjoyable typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, we can see that the Kiki Red is lighter than the Windy Shadow. The Kiki Red has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option. In contrast, the Windy Shadow's actuation force is unknown, but its bottom out force is 55 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Kiki Red. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods, the Kiki Red may be the better choice. However, for those who prefer a bit more resistance and a stronger push feel, the Windy Shadow could provide a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Bsun Kiki Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for gamers seeking faster response times. The difference of 0.1 mm between the two may not be significant to most users, but if you prefer a slightly deeper key press, the Kiki Red may be more suited to your preferences. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly shallower feel, the Windy Shadow may be the better option for you. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar travel distance that will provide a responsive typing or gaming experience.
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 Windy 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 Windy 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 offers a clacky and high-pitched tone that is sharp and snappy, providing a satisfying auditory feedback during typing. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch produces a more neutral and low-pitched sound, which is mellower and bass-heavy compared to the Kiki Red. Depending on personal preference, the Kiki Red may be preferred for those who enjoy a more distinctive and lively sound, while the Windy Shadow may be suitable for those looking for a more subtle and balanced sound profile.
Moving on to the feel, the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch is known for its creamy, frictionless, and polished typing experience, offering a smooth and buttery sensation with minimal resistance or friction. This switch is also described as snappy and easy-to-press, providing a responsive and comfortable typing feel. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch offers a mild typing experience that is gentle and approachable to most users. While the exact feel of the Windy Shadow may not be as clearly defined as the Kiki Red, it aims to provide a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience without any extreme characteristics.
In conclusion, the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch excels in providing a high-pitched and clacky sound profile along with a smooth and creamy typing feel, making it a preferred choice for enthusiasts who appreciate subtlety in auditory feedback and finesse in performance. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch offers a more neutral and low-pitched sound with a mild typing experience that is gentle and approachable. Both switches have their own unique qualities, and choosing between them ultimately depends on individual preferences for sound and feel during typing.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you value a finely-tuned, medium-light switch with a high-pitched, clacky nuance and smooth actuation, the Kiki Red may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light switch with a neutral sound profile and a distinctive bounce from an extended spring, the Windy Shadow could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, selecting the right switch comes down to your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing performance. Consider these factors carefully to ensure you make the best choice for your typing needs.
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