HMX Cheese vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX Cheese linear switch to the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, it becomes clear that each offers distinct advantages for different preferences. The Cheese switch is renowned for its ultra-lightweight feel and smooth typing experience, paired with a satisfyingly clacky sound signature that sets it apart from other switches on the market. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow switch by Aflion offers a medium weight feel with a pronounced tactile bump, providing a balanced yet invigorating typing experience. While the Cheese switch may appeal to those seeking a lighter, smoother typing experience, the Thunder Shadow switch caters to individuals looking for a tactile feedback and a harmonious balance. 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
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX Cheese and the Aflion Thunder Shadow, one can see that they both utilize nylon for the bottom housing. This choice of material results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, attributed to nylon's softness that allows for more sound absorption. However, when it comes to the top housing, the Cheese opts for a nylon construction while the Thunder Shadow uses polycarbonate. The polycarbonate material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This contrast showcases how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the sound produced by a switch.
Despite the differences in their top housing materials, both the HMX Cheese and the Aflion Thunder Shadow offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The Cheese's nylon top housing results in a duller and rounder sound, while the Thunder Shadow's polycarbonate top housing produces a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate in the Thunder Shadow allows for RGB lighting due to its translucency, offering a visually appealing feature that is not present in the Cheese. These distinctions in housing materials highlight the importance of material selection in the design and functionality of mechanical switches.
Overall, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate for housing material in mechanical switches ultimately comes down to personal preference and desired sound profile. While both materials have their own unique qualities, such as sound absorption in nylon and stiffness in polycarbonate, they can both result in satisfying typing experiences. Whether one prefers a deeper and fuller sound profile provided by nylon or a sharper and crisper sound profile offered by polycarbonate, both the HMX Cheese and Aflion Thunder Shadow showcase the impact that housing materials can have on the overall typing experience.
Weight
The HMX Cheese linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, making it a good option for those who prefer a lighter touch while typing. In contrast, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. The actuation force of the Thunder Shadow is not specified, but given the higher bottom out force, it can be assumed that it may require a slightly higher actuation force as well. Both switches offer different levels of force, with the Cheese being on the lighter side and the Thunder Shadow on the heavier side, catering to different preferences in typing experiences.
Travel distance
The HMX Cheese linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch both have the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. When comparing and contrasting their travel distance, it is evident that both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of key travel. Users can expect consistent feedback and actuation with either switch, making them equally suitable for typing and gaming purposes. The identical travel distance ensures that users will get similar results in terms of typing feel and performance, with no significant difference between the two switches in this aspect. Ultimately, whether using the Cheese or Thunder Shadow switch, users can enjoy a smooth and comfortable typing experience with a 3.5 mm travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Cheese has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cheese for $3.79.
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
The HMX Cheese linear switch is praised for its smoothness and pristine typing experience, coupled with a satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch offers a pronounced tactile bump and a harmonious medium weight feel. The Thunder Shadow's neutral sound signature complements its balance, showcasing Aflion's commitment to refinement. While the Cheese switch focuses on a light and smooth typing experience with a distinct sound profile, the Thunder Shadow provides a more tactile feedback and medium weight feel with a neutral sound profile. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring an enjoyable typing experience for users. Ultimately, the choice between the HMX Cheese and Aflion Thunder Shadow switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences. If you prefer a lighter switch with a smooth typing experience and a satisfying sound, then the Cheese switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium weight switch with a pronounced tactile bump that offers a balanced typing feel, then the Thunder Shadow switch may be more suitable. Consider the type of typing experience you prefer, whether it be ultra-light and smooth or medium-heavy with a tactile bump, to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your individual needs and preferences.
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