Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Aflion Thunder Shadow offer unique advantages for different preferences. The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro stands out for its budget-friendly yet high-quality build, providing a unique poppy and clacky sound along with exceptional smoothness. This linear switch is characterized by its creamy, high-pitched, bouncy, snappy, and polished feel. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow by the emerging brand Aflion offers a tactile typing experience with a pronounced bump and a balanced 63.5g bottom-out weight. Known for its invigorating and neutral characteristics, this switch provides a harmonious feel and a neutral sound signature. Each switch caters to distinct preferences and usage scenarios; 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
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Aflion Thunder Shadow both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature. This makes them ideal for users who prioritize sound quality and clarity in their typing experience. Additionally, both switches allow for RGB lighting to shine through the translucent polycarbonate material, adding a touch of visual appeal to the overall aesthetic of the keyboard.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The V3 Cream Black Pro utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, leading to a duller and rounder sound that can be appealing to those who prefer a quieter typing experience. In contrast, the Thunder Shadow also features a nylon bottom housing, ensuring a similar deep and full sound profile that complements the sharper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing.
Overall, while both switches share the same polycarbonate top housing for a similar sound profile, their choice of bottom housing material sets them apart in terms of the typing experience they offer. The V3 Cream Black Pro's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound for a quieter typing experience, while the Thunder Shadow's nylon bottom housing provides a similarly deep and full sound profile. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference in sound and typing feel.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. In comparison, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch has an unknown actuation force but a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, also falling into the medium-heavy category. While the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro requires a slightly lighter actuation force, both switches offer a similar bottom out force, making them suitable for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference, with lighter switches being better for longer typing sessions and heavier switches offering a more solid feel while typing.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Thunder Shadow has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the V3 Cream Black Pro. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them appealing options for gamers looking for quick response times. However, those who prefer a slightly deeper press may lean towards the Thunder Shadow with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and tactile feedback.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro has an MSRP of $3.77 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Black Pro for $2.70.
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 Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch stands out with its high-pitched and distinctive poppy and clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and crisp auditory experience when typing. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch offers a neutral sound signature, making it suitable for various environments and preferences. The neutral sound profile of the Thunder Shadow ensures a moderate actuation force requirement, appealing to a wide range of users. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, but the V3 Cream Black Pro provides a more pronounced and distinct auditory feedback compared to the Thunder Shadow.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch offers a creamy and bouncy typing experience, with a smooth and buttery sensation when key presses are made. This switch provides a polished and snappy feel, resulting in a refined and smooth typing experience that reduces friction and enhances key travel. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch is described as invigorating, offering pronounced feedback and a reactive feel that immerses users in a tactile typing experience. While the Cream Black Pro emphasizes smoothness and a lively bounce, the Thunder Shadow focuses on providing a firm actuation force and reactive feedback for an engaging typing sensation.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Cream Black Pro excels in providing a high-pitched and bouncy sound profile, coupled with a creamy and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow offers a neutral sound signature and an invigorating tactile feel, catering to users looking for pronounced feedback and firm actuation. Depending on personal preferences, users can choose between the distinct sound and feel of the Cream Black Pro or the balanced tactile experience of the Thunder Shadow, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for all mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. Choose the V3 Cream Black Pro if you prioritize a slightly heavier bottom-out force of 65 grams, a high-pitched sound profile, and a smooth and buttery typing experience. On the other hand, opt for the Thunder Shadow if you prefer a bottom-out force of 63.5 grams, a neutral sound profile, and an invigorating typing sensation with pronounced feedback. Ultimately, your choice should align with your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and overall typing experience.
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