Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring vs. Bsun Tomcat
An in-depth look at the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Bsun Tomcat switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Bsun Tomcat offer distinct experiences that cater to different typing preferences. The Shadow switch is a tactile option known for its medium-high level of tactility, delivering satisfying, deep "thock" sounds with each keystroke. Its long, two-staged spring enhances the overall feedback, making it ideal for those who enjoy a pronounced tactile feel while typing. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat features a linear switch design, distinguished by its smooth, rapid keystrokes thanks to its Ly stems. This switch prioritizes a fluid typing experience, appealing to users who dislike tactile bumps and prefer a quieter, resonant sound profile. Both switches have their unique advantages—whether it’s the tactile feedback of the Shadow or the seamless action of the Tomcat. 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
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
54g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.95 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
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
Extended spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Bsun Tomcat feature very similar top housing materials; both utilize polycarbonate for their construction. This choice of material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in both switches. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced, making it an excellent choice for users who prefer a more pronounced acoustic experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is a practical benefit for those who wish to illuminate their keyboards with RGB lighting, as it allows for enhanced light diffusion and aesthetic appeal. Given that both switches employ polycarbonate in their top housings, users can expect a consistent sound quality when key presses are released, which will heighten the overall experience.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the two switches differ significantly in their material composition. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring also features polycarbonate in its bottom housing, reinforcing the crisp sound profile that characterizes the overall switch. This contributes to a cohesive acoustic experience from both the top and the bottom housings. Meanwhile, the Bsun Tomcat utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, a material known for generating a deeper, more resonant sound profile due to its softer nature. Nylon tends to absorb more sound, resulting in a rounder, fuller acoustic experience. Consequently, when typing on the Tomcat, users will perceive a duller sound when bottoming out, creating a notable contrast to the sharper response of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring.
Overall, while both the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring and the Bsun Tomcat share similar top housing materials that yield a bright and clear sound, their bottom housing materials diverge, leading to distinct auditory experiences. For users who value a harmonious sound profile, the Shadow's all-polycarbonate construction provides a consistent and crisp output. In contrast, the Tomcat offers a blend of clarity from the polycarbonate top combined with the warm depth of a nylon bottom, resulting in a richer typing experience. As a result, whether opting for the sharper tones of the Shadow or the deeper acoustics of the Tomcat, both switches are crafted to deliver compelling auditory feedback, albeit through different material compositions in their bottom housings.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch with the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, we observe distinct differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, making it a medium-weight switch. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 54 grams, classifying it as medium-light. This means that typists who favor a lighter switch for prolonged typing sessions are likely to prefer the Tomcat, while those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may gravitate towards the Shadow (Ink). Overall, since the actuation and bottom out forces differ between these switches, users can expect different tactile experiences based on their preference for lighter or heavier switches.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, it is clear that they cater to different preferences in tactile feedback. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring features a travel distance of 4 mm, which provides a more pronounced feel with a hearty depth that many users appreciate for its tactile feedback. In contrast, the Tomcat linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, appealing to those who favor a quicker response time, particularly gamers who benefit from the swifter actuation. Therefore, while both switches offer distinct experiences, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring with its longer travel distance may feel more substantial, whereas the Tomcat’s shorter travel distance allows for a faster, more responsive keystroke. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on whether you prioritize deeper tactile feedback or quicker actuation.
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 Tomcat comes in at $2.99 per 10 switches.
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
The sound profile of the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch is characterized by deep, resonating thocks, which offer a rich auditory experience while typing. This sound can provide a satisfying feedback loop for users who enjoy auditory reinforcement with their keystrokes. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat linear switch also produces a resonant sound profile, although the specifics are less defined. The presence of a resonant sound in both switches suggests that they may offer a fuller auditory experience compared to other switch types, although the differences in sound characteristics may depend significantly on keycap and board choice.
When it comes to the feel, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring excels with its medium-high tactility and distinct tactile response. It combines sharp, accented feedback with a bouncy, snappy sensation, producing a lively and engaging typing experience. The dual-staged spring contributes to this experience, offering a pronounced tactile bump that can be felt distinctly throughout the keystroke, enhancing user engagement. In contrast, the Tomcat linear switch has not been described in terms of its tactile qualities, leaving a gap in the comparison. Therefore, while users can expect a robust tactile experience from the Shadow switch, the tactile sensation of the Tomcat remains uncertain.
In conclusion, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch offers a rich auditory experience along with a highly engaging tactile feel, making it ideal for those who seek both sound and sensitivity in their typing. The Bsun Tomcat linear switch, while noted for its resonant sound, lacks detailed tactile descriptions that would help gauge how it stacks up against the Shadow switch. Ultimately, if you're looking for a switch that combines auditory and tactile feedback, the Shadow switch stands out as a compelling option, while the Tomcat may cater to those who prioritize smoothness and simplicity in their typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch ultimately comes down to your preferences for typing feel and sound characteristics. If you are someone who enjoys a tactile experience with a medium-high level of tactility, the Shadow (Ink) is an excellent choice. Its distinct and sharp tactile bump, combined with the rich, resonating thock sound, will cater to those who appreciate feedback with every keypress. The Shadow's higher bottom-out force of 63 grams also makes it suitable for users who prefer a firmer resistance, adding to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, if you lean toward a smoother and lighter touch in a keyboard, the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, with its lower bottom-out force of 54 grams, is likely more to your liking. It offers a seamless typing experience without the distraction of tactile feedback, making it ideal for fast typing and gaming scenarios. In summary, consider what you prioritize: the pronounced tactile feedback and heavier feel of the Shadow (Ink) or the smooth, lightweight motion of the Tomcat, and you’ll find the switch that best suits your style.
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