Gateron Aliaz vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that come to mind are the Gateron Aliaz and the Aflion Thunder Shadow, both of which are tactile switches. The Aliaz switches are well-known for their quiet operation, making them ideal for office environments where noise can be a concern. With a medium-heavy weight and a substantial feel to each keystroke, they provide a satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a more pronounced feedback without the accompanying noise. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadows offer a pronounced tactile bump while maintaining a harmonious balance overall. With a medium weight feel and a 63.5g bottom-out force, these switches provide a satisfying typing experience. Their neutral sound signature adds to this balance, showcasing Aflion's dedication to innovation. 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
60g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Aliaz and Aflion Thunder Shadow both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This makes them ideal for users looking for a more clear and resonant typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it a popular choice for switches meant for RGB lighting. However, the similarities in their top housing materials mean that users can expect comparable sound profiles and aesthetics from both switches.
On the other hand, the key point of differentiation between the two switches lies in their bottom housings. The Aliaz utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to the overall sound profile and feel of the switch. In contrast, the Thunder Shadow features a nylon bottom housing, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer and sound-absorbing properties. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing. Therefore, users can expect a notable difference in typing experience between the two switches based on their bottom housing material.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Aliaz and Aflion Thunder Shadow will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel. While both switches share a polycarbonate top housing that provides a sharp and crisp sound, the difference in bottom housing materials - polycarbonate for the Aliaz and nylon for the Thunder Shadow - will impact the overall typing experience. Whether you prefer a more resonant and clear sound or a deeper and fuller sound, each switch offers a unique typing experience that caters to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, it is evident that there are significant differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Aliaz has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 75 grams, providing users with a substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Thunder Shadow has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 63.5 grams, while the actuation force is not specified. The Aliaz is heavier in both aspects compared to the Thunder Shadow, making it more suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel. However, both switches offer a tactile typing experience, and users can expect similar results in terms of tactile feedback despite the variance in force requirements. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and weight tolerance.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, the Aliaz has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Thunder Shadow has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Aliaz offers a more traditional travel distance, providing a standard feel when typing, while the Thunder Shadow offers a slightly shallower travel distance. Gamers may prefer the Thunder Shadow for its faster response times due to the shorter travel distance, while those looking for a more substantial keypress may opt for the Aliaz with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
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 Gateron Aliaz switch offers a muted typing experience, ideal for quiet environments such as offices where minimizing noise is crucial. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow switch provides a neutral sound profile, making it a versatile option suitable for various settings and users. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Aliaz switch is known for its silky and polished characteristics, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Thunder Shadow switch is described as invigorating, providing pronounced feedback, a moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel for an immersive typing sensation. Both switches offer unique tactile feedback tailored to different preferences.
Overall, the Gateron Aliaz and Aflion Thunder Shadow switches showcase distinctive qualities in both sound and feel. While the Aliaz switch is best suited for those seeking a medium-heavy weight with a pronounced typing feedback and a muted sound, the Thunder Shadow switch caters to users looking for a balanced tactile bump, medium weight feel, and a neutral sound signature. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences in terms of typing experience and noise levels.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, consider your environment and preference for typing feel. If you work in a quiet space like an office and prefer a substantial typing feedback, the Aliaz with its heavier bottom out force and muted sound may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you are seeking a balanced tactile bump with a medium weight feel and a neutral sound profile, along with an invigorating typing experience, the Aflion Thunder Shadow could be the ideal switch for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal preferences and typing environment.
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