Kailh Box Royal vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Royal and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to tactile mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Royal and Aflion Thunder Shadow are standout choices with unique characteristics. The Box Royal is renowned for its extreme tactile feedback, offering a sharp and binary tactility that appeals to those seeking a more aggressive typing experience. With a relatively higher pitched sound profile, these switches are perfect for users who enjoy a pronounced tactile response. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow showcases a balanced tactile bump and a medium weight feel, thanks to its 63.5g bottom-out force. Aflion's dedication to innovation is evident in the neutral sound signature of these switches, providing a harmonious typing experience. While both switches offer tactile feedback, the Box Royal leans towards a sharper feel, while the Thunder Shadow provides a more balanced and invigorating typing experience. 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
70g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Royal and Aflion Thunder Shadow both have unique housing materials that contribute to the sound profile of the switch. The Box Royal features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Thunder Shadow boasts a polycarbonate top housing, producing a sharper and crisper sound profile because of its stiffer plastic composition. While both materials offer distinct sound characteristics, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of the type of sound one prefers while typing.
Both switches also share a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a similar typing experience with a deep and round sound profile. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches contributes to a fuller sound as the softer plastic absorbs more sound than harder plastics. While the bottom housing may not impact the overall sound profile as significantly as the top housing, having consistent nylon materials in both the top and bottom housings helps maintain a cohesive sound experience when typing on either the Box Royal or Thunder Shadow switches.
Overall, the choice between the Kailh Box Royal and Aflion Thunder Shadow ultimately comes down to the desired sound profile and typing experience. The Box Royal offers a deeper and fuller sound profile with its nylon top housing, while the Thunder Shadow provides a sharper and crisper sound profile with its polycarbonate top housing. Whether one prefers a duller and rounder sound or a clearer and more resonant sound will ultimately guide the decision between these two switches. Regardless of the choice made, having consistent housing materials in both the top and bottom of the switch ensures a cohesive and consistent sound experience while typing.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch reveals some differences. The Kailh Box Royal has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Aflion Thunder Shadow has an unknown actuation force but a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, also falling into the medium-heavy category. The Box Royal is lighter in terms of actuation force, while the Thunder Shadow is lighter in terms of bottom out force. Those looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the Box Royal, while those wanting a more substantial push feel might lean towards the Thunder Shadow. Ultimately, both switches provide a similar level of responsiveness, with the lighter and heavier forces each offering unique benefits for different types of users.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch is 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 that are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. The difference of 0.1 mm between the two switches may not be very noticeable to most users, but those who prefer a slightly deeper press may lean towards the Kailh Box Royal. On the other hand, those who prefer a slightly quicker actuation may opt for the Aflion Thunder Shadow. Ultimately, both switches offer similar performance, and the choice between them will come down to personal preference for the minor difference in travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Kailh Box Royal comes in at $6.25 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
When it comes to sound, the Kailh Box Royal switch offers a high-pitched profile that produces a sharp and crisp sound with each key press. This can be ideal for those who prefer a more distinct and distinct sound. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow switch provides a neutral sound signature, which is moderate in pitch and suitable for various environments and users. Both switches offer different sound profiles that cater to individual preferences, so the choice between them will ultimately depend on personal preference and the overall setup of the keyboard.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box Royal switch provides a sharp tactile feedback that is strong and intense, making each key press feel distinct and satisfying. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow switch offers an invigorating feel with pronounced feedback and a snappy, reactive sensation, creating an immersive typing experience. Both switches offer a unique tactile experience that can cater to different preferences, so it will depend on personal preference and typing style when choosing between the two.
Overall, the Kailh Box Royal switch is best suited for those seeking an aggressive and sharp tactile switch with a higher-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow switch caters to users looking for a balanced tactile experience with a medium weight feel and a neutral sound signature. Both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance the typing experience, so choosing between the two will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer quality tactile feedback and a satisfying typing experience, so you can expect similar results in terms of performance and satisfaction with either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're seeking an aggressive tactile experience with a higher-pitched sound profile, then the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more balanced tactile feel with a neutral sound signature, then the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch would better suit your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of tactile feedback and sound profile. Whichever switch you choose, both the Kailh Box Royal and Aflion Thunder Shadow offer distinct characteristics that can enhance your typing experience.
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