Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring vs. Bsun Taichi
An in-depth look at the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Bsun Taichi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves choosing between tactile and linear options, each offering distinct tactile engagements and auditory experiences. The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring stands out as a tactile switch, delivering a medium-high level of tactility with its unique long, two-staged spring design. Users are treated to satisfying, resonating thocks that enhance the typing experience, making it an excellent choice for those who seek feedback while typing. In contrast, the Bsun Taichi is a linear switch that emphasizes smoothness and a high-pitched bottom-out sound, achieved through its long-pole stem and extended springs. This design promotes a more fluid keystroke ideal for rapid typists and gamers who crave uninterrupted performance without tactile interruptions. While each switch caters to different preferences—whether you desire the pronounced feedback of the Shadow or the silky-smooth travel of the Taichi—understanding their characteristics is essential. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Spring
21mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Bsun Taichi provide notable contrasts, particularly in their bottom housings, while sharing similarities in their top housings. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material's inherent stiffness enhances clarity and resonance, making it ideal for those who prioritize a bright, lively auditory experience. Moreover, the polycarbonate’s translucency allows for effective RGB lighting display, enriching the overall aesthetics when illuminated. Thus, both switches will deliver similar results in terms of sound quality and visual appeal when it comes to the top housing.
Conversely, the bottom housing materials diverge significantly between the two switches. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring employs polycarbonate for its bottom housing, mirroring the brightness characteristic of its top housing. This choice can enhance the overall sound profile, resulting in a consistent sound experience throughout the switch. In contrast, the Bsun Taichi features a nylon bottom housing, which is known for producing deeper, fuller sound profiles due to its softer plastic nature. The nylon’s ability to absorb sound leads to a duller and rounder tonal quality, allowing for a more cushioned keystroke feel. Therefore, while both switches exhibit clarity and resonance through their polycarbonate tops, the bottom housing materials distinctly influence the overall acoustic experience.
In summary, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and Bsun Taichi present a study in contrasts and similarities. The shared polycarbonate top housing ensures that both switches deliver a crisp and resonant sound profile, ideal for users who favor the sharper auditory characteristics associated with stiffer materials. In contrast, the differing bottom housings—one being polycarbonate for consistency and the other nylon for a warmer tone—lead to varying aural experiences. Ultimately, the performance and feel of the switches will reflect these material choices, with the Shadow showcasing a more uniform sound across the board, while the Taichi provides a blend of deep and sharp tonal qualities.
Weight
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch exhibit notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces, which can significantly influence the typing experience. The Shadow (Ink) has a firm actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, categorizing it as a medium option that may appeal to those who prefer a more tactile and substantial feel when typing, making it ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming where feedback is essential. In contrast, the Taichi switch features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, suggesting a softer touch that may be preferable for users who favor ease during longer usage periods. However, its bottom out force is unknown, which leaves some uncertainty about the key feel when fully pressed down. Ultimately, while the Shadow (Ink) might be better suited for individuals who enjoy a heftier switch for enhanced feedback, the Taichi is positioned as a lighter alternative, possibly leading to less fatigue during extended use.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch is 4 mm, while the Bsun Taichi linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference in travel distance can significantly impact the typing experience. The Shadow switch, with its longer 4 mm travel, offers a more substantial feel, which some users might find reassuring and satisfying, especially those who appreciate a heartier depth when pressing keys. In contrast, the Taichi switch, at 3.6 mm, provides a shorter travel distance that could lead to quicker response times, making it a favorable option for gamers or those who prefer faster actuation. Therefore, if you're looking for a more traditional and deeper feel, the Shadow switch may be the better choice, whereas the shorter Taichi switch is ideal for responsive performance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Bsun Taichi has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taichi for $2.25.
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 Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch delivers deep, resonating thocks, providing a pronounced auditory feedback that's more bass-heavy than many lighter switches. This is ideal for those who enjoy a rich sound profile while typing. In contrast, the Bsun Taichi linear switch showcases a high-pitched, clacky sound that produces a sharp and snappy auditory experience. The Taichi's sound is characterized by its crisp and bright qualities, making it more percussive in nature. While both switches offer satisfying sound profiles, their distinct tonal qualities cater to different preferences, with the Shadow leaning towards a deeper resonance and the Taichi offering crisp clarity.
In terms of feel, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring excels in delivering a sharp, snappy tactile experience, characterized by its medium-high level of tactility. Users will appreciate the pronounced tactile bump that creates a lively and responsive typing sensation, aided by its unique two-staged spring design. The sentiments of "bouncy" and "stepped" further enhance the experience by providing an engaging rebound effect that keeps the keystrokes lively without overwhelming the typist. On the other hand, the Taichi linear switch focuses on a polished, smooth feel, which means that key presses glide effortlessly without significant tactile feedback. This makes the typing experience silky and refined, but lacking the pronounced tactility of the Shadow switch.
In conclusion, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch offer distinctly different sound and feel experiences for users. The Shadow switch promotes a deeper and more resonant sound with a lively and tactile feel, ideal for users seeking pronounced feedback during typing. Conversely, the Taichi switch provides a high-pitched, clacky sound with an exceptionally smooth travel experience, appealing to those who prioritize quiet, smooth key presses. Depending on your preferences for sound and tactile feedback, either switch can significantly enhance your mechanical keyboard experience, making your choice crucial to your typing satisfaction.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound. If you enjoy a pronounced tactile experience with a medium-high level of tactility, the Shadow (Ink) switch will likely be your go-to option. Its distinct crisp and sharp feedback, combined with a satisfying deep thock sound, makes it ideal for those who appreciate a more engaging typing experience—especially for tasks like typing and gaming where quick feedback is beneficial. On the other hand, if you favor a smoother and quieter experience, the Bsun Taichi linear switch would suit you better. With its clacky sound profile and polished feel, the Taichi delivers a silky-smooth key press that many users find highly comfortable for long periods, especially during tasks that require minimal noise distraction or a seamless typing motion. In essence, your choice depends on whether you prioritize tactile feedback and auditory richness in your keyboard experience or opt for smoothness and peace while typing.
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