Bsun Guyu vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the Bsun Guyu and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Bsun Guyu, a linear switch, and the Aflion Thunder Shadow, a tactile switch. The Guyu stands out for its unique auditory experience, characterized by all-POM housings that deepen acoustics and a long pole stem that creates a bright, crisp bottom-out sound. With super-smooth keystrokes and a medium weight, typing on the Guyu switch is effortless and provides resonant feedback. In contrast, the Thunder Shadow by Aflion features a pronounced tactile bump while still maintaining a harmonious balance overall. With a medium weight and a neutral sound signature, these switches exemplify Aflion's dedication to innovation. Each switch has its own distinct characteristics and advantages, offering a different typing experience for users. 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
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
UPE
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
21mm spring
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Guyu and the Aflion Thunder Shadow offer distinct differences in sound profile and feel. The Guyu's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound, while the Thunder Shadow's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Similarly, the Guyu's POM bottom housing provides a deep and unique sound, whereas the Thunder Shadow's nylon bottom housing offers a fuller and rounder sound profile. These differences in housing materials greatly influence the overall typing experience and sound produced by each switch.
The use of POM in the Guyu's housing material provides a pleasing and unique sound, while the polycarbonate in the Thunder Shadow's housing material offers a more distinct and resonant sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the Thunder Shadow switch. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Thunder Shadow contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder tone compared to the POM bottom housing of the Guyu. These differences in material composition result in contrasting typing experiences for users of each switch.
Overall, the choice of housing material plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and feel of a switch. While the Guyu and Thunder Shadow switches differ in their top and bottom housing materials, each material brings its own unique qualities to the overall typing experience. The POM and nylon housings of the Guyu and Thunder Shadow, respectively, showcase the diversity in sound profiles that can be achieved through different materials. Whether seeking a deeper, more muted sound or a sharper, crisper tone, users can select a switch based on their preferences for housing material and the resulting typing experience.
Weight
The Bsun Guyu linear switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch. The Guyu requires 45 grams of force to actuate and 50 grams to bottom out, while the Thunder Shadow's actuation force is not specified, but it requires 63.5 grams to bottom out. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Guyu, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Thunder Shadow provides a more substantial typing feel with its heavier bottom out force. Both switches offer different typing experiences based on their force requirements, catering to individual preferences for typing or gaming.
Travel distance
The Bsun Guyu linear switch has a travel distance of 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, making them ideal for those seeking faster response times, such as gamers. The slight difference in travel distance may not be noticeable to some users, as both options offer a relatively quick key press. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference for a slightly faster response time with the Thunder Shadow or a slightly more substantial key press with the Guyu.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Guyu has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Guyu for $3.70.
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
In terms of sound, the Bsun Guyu linear switch offers a clacky typing experience with a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, providing a crisp and bright auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch presents a neutral sound profile, suitable for various typing needs. Both switches offer unique sound signatures, with the Guyu emphasizing depth and clarity, while the Thunder Shadow strikes a harmonious balance overall.
When it comes to feel, the Bsun Guyu linear switch is known for its creamy, frictionless, polished, and silky typing experience, offering a smooth and effortless glide with each keystroke. In contrast, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch provides an invigorating feel with pronounced feedback and a snappy, reactive sensation. Both switches offer a medium weight feel, catering to different preferences in typing feedback.
Overall, the Bsun Guyu linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch provide distinctive qualities in sound and feel. While the Guyu emphasizes a clacky sound and a creamy, frictionless typing feel, the Thunder Shadow offers a neutral sound profile and an invigorating tactile feedback. Choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel, as both offer high-quality performance for a rewarding typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a unique auditory experience with a light and smooth keystroke, the BSUN Guyu linear switch would be a great choice for you. The deep acoustics and bright bottom-out sound, paired with the medium weight and super-smooth keystrokes, create an unmatched typing rhythm. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy tactile switch with a balanced feel and neutral sound signature, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch would suit your preferences. The pronounced tactile bump and overall harmonious balance, along with the invigorating typing sensation, make the Thunder Shadow a solid option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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