Bsun Olive vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Bsun Olive and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Bsun Olive and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring mechanical keyboard switches, there are distinct features that set them apart. The Bsun Olive switch is known for its resonant, deep sound and pronounced tactile feedback, making it a satisfying choice for those who enjoy a tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offers a medium-high level of tactility with a unique two-staged spring design, resulting in a clacky and sharp typing experience. Both switches are categorized as 'Sharp' and 'Snappy', but the Bsun Olive is also described as 'Accented' and 'Invigorating', while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is labeled as 'High-pitched', 'Bouncy', and 'Stepped'. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Olive and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring both offer distinct housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Olive features a POM top and bottom housing, creating a deeper and more muted sound. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring utilizes a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This difference in housing materials directly affects the overall feel and sound of the switches, making them ideal for different preferences in typing experience.
In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring allows for a clearer and more translucent appearance. This makes it a great option for users looking to showcase RGB lighting effects in their keyboards. In contrast, the POM housing of the Olive offers a more solid and opaque look, which may appeal to those who prefer a more traditional design. While both housing materials have their own unique benefits, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the desired visual effect when choosing between the two switches.
When comparing the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the typing experience, it is important to note that the qualities of each material are divided between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed, while the top housing affects the sound when the key is released. This division of qualities adds a layer of complexity to the typing experience, as users can feel and hear the difference in sound profiles depending on which part of the switch is being engaged.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Olive tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch show some similarities and differences. The Bsun Olive has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Aflion Shadow's 55 grams, making it easier to trigger a keystroke. However, the Olive has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams compared to the Shadow's 63 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience when pressing all the way down. Both switches fall into the medium to medium-heavy category, offering users a balanced typing experience. Depending on personal preferences, some may opt for the lighter actuation force of the Olive for longer typing sessions, while others may prefer the slighter heavier feel of the Shadow for a more pronounced typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Bsun Olive tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it shorter than the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. In general, the shorter the travel distance, the faster the response time, which is preferred by gamers. On the other hand, a longer travel distance provides a more substantial feeling when typing or gaming. Both switches offer a different typing experience, with the Olive providing a quicker response and the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offering a more deliberate key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing or gaming style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Olive has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Olive for $4.70.
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double 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) Double 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 Olive tactile switch is known for delivering a resonant and deep sound due to its all-POM housings. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch is described as producing a clacky and high-pitched sound, which can be sharp and percussive. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that can enhance the overall typing experience, with the Olive providing a deeper tone and the Shadow offering a crisper sound.
When it comes to feel, the Bsun Olive tactile switch is characterized by its accented and invigorating tactile feedback, as well as its sharp and snappy response. The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, on the other hand, offers a sharp and accented tactile bump, along with a snappy and bouncy feel that provides a lively typing experience. Both switches provide a prominent amount of tactility, with the Olive having a sharper feedback intensity and the Shadow offering a more elastic and rebounding sensation.
In conclusion, the Bsun Olive tactile switch stands out for its resonant and deep sound profile, as well as its invigorating and sharp tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch excels in producing a clacky and high-pitched sound, along with a snappy and bouncy feel. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, whether you choose the Olive or the Shadow, you can expect a satisfying and responsive typing experience with distinctive characteristics.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the Bsun Olive tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a resonant, deep sound with pronounced tactile feedback and a sharp bottom-out feel, the Bsun Olive switch with its medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-high level of tactility, characterized by a sharp and snappy sound accompanied by a unique two-staged spring design, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch with a bottom out force of 63 grams might be more suitable for you. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles and tactile feels, so your decision should be based on your preference for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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