Everglide Aqua King (V3) vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, you are presented with unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Aqua King (V3) is praised for its smooth and frictionless feel, likened to gliding on ice, making typing a magical experience. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow offers a pronounced tactile bump and a medium weight feel, with a neutral sound signature that showcases Aflion's commitment to innovation. While the Aqua King (V3) leans towards a subdued and creamy experience, the Thunder Shadow exudes an invigorating and balanced feel. 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
46g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
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
Yes
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
Gold-plated
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Aflion Thunder Shadow both feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature. This material is especially useful for switches if you plan to use RGB lighting, as its translucency allows the light to shine through beautifully. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Aqua King's polycarbonate bottom housing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound overall.
While both switches have polycarbonate top housings, the difference in bottom housing material between the Aqua King (V3) and the Thunder Shadow significantly impacts the overall sound and feel of the switches. The split in housing materials means that the qualities of polycarbonate and nylon are concentrated in different parts of the switches. When pressing down on a key, the impact and sound will be influenced more by the bottom housing material, whether it is polycarbonate or nylon. Conversely, the sound when releasing a key will be more impacted by the material of the top housing.
In conclusion, the choice between the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Aflion Thunder Shadow ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. Both switches offer unique characteristics based on their housing materials, with the Aqua King delivering a sharper and crisper sound profile through its polycarbonate top and bottom housing, while the Thunder Shadow provides a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon bottom housing. Whether you prioritize a clear and resonant sound or a duller and rounder sound, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different typing preferences.
Weight
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 46 grams compared to the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Aqua King requires 62 grams while the Thunder Shadow needs 63.5 grams, making the latter slightly heavier. Both switches fall into the medium to medium-heavy range in terms of force. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Aqua King for longer typing sessions, while those seeking a more substantial feel may opt for the Thunder Shadow. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, it is evident that the Aqua King has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Thunder Shadow's 3.5 mm. This means that the Aqua King allows for a slightly deeper key press compared to the Thunder Shadow. For those who prefer a more traditional key press with a bit more depth, the Aqua King may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which can appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key press depth and response time.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) has an MSRP of $7.18 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aqua King (V3) for $5.44.
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
When it comes to sound, the Aqua King (V3) linear switch offers a subdued typing experience, providing a dampened sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various settings and preferences, without being too loud or too quiet. Both switches offer a pleasant sound signature, with the Aqua King leaning towards a more subtle approach while the Thunder Shadow maintains a moderate sound profile.
In terms of feel, the Aqua King (V3) linear switch offers a range of descriptors such as creamy, frictionless, silky, and polished, all highlighting the smooth and effortless typing experience these switches provide. Conversely, the Thunder Shadow tactile switch is described as invigorating, offering pronounced feedback and a reactive feel for a more immersive typing sensation. While the Aqua King focuses on a silky and frictionless feel, the Thunder Shadow emphasizes a tactile bump and firm actuation force for tactile feedback.
Overall, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Aqua King provides a smooth and frictionless typing experience with a subdued sound, while the Thunder Shadow offers a tactile and invigorating feel with a neutral sound. Depending on personal preference, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, whether you prefer a smoother feel or a more tactile response. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will come down to individual preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, consider your preferences for bottom-out force, typing experience, sound profile, and tactile feedback. If you prefer a medium bottom-out force and a smooth, frictionless typing experience reminiscent of ice skating, the Aqua King (V3) may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom-out force with a pronounced tactile bump and a neutral sound signature, the Thunder Shadow could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what typing feel and sound profile you find most appealing.
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