Dareu Dream vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the Dareu Dream and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Dream linear switch with the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, it's clear that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Dareu Dream is known for its light and easy-to-press feel, coupled with a clacky sound that appeals to enthusiasts looking for a quality switch at an affordable price point. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow stands out for its pronounced tactile bump and medium weight feel, providing an invigorating typing experience with a neutral sound signature. While the Dream focuses on a smooth linear action, the Thunder Shadow offers a more tactile feedback. 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
40g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
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
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Dream and the Aflion Thunder Shadow both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, as it allows for the light to shine through. Although both switches utilize this material for their top housing, they may differ in terms of design and aesthetics.
On the other hand, the Dream and the Thunder Shadow diverge in their choice of bottom housing material. The Dream utilizes nylon, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound overall. In contrast, the Thunder Shadow also incorporates nylon for its bottom housing, indicating that both switches share similar acoustic properties in this aspect. However, the impact of the bottom housing material may differ in terms of feel and sound when typing on the switches.
In summary, while the Dareu Dream and Aflion Thunder Shadow share polycarbonate top housings that contribute to a sharp and crisp sound profile, they differ in their choice of bottom housing material. The Dream's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, while the Thunder Shadow's nylon bottom housing likely offers similar acoustic qualities. The combination of different housing materials in each switch influences the overall sound and feel when typing, with the bottom housing playing a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound upon key release.
Weight
The Dareu Dream linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. Both switches have an unknown bottom out force, but the Thunder Shadow is described as medium-heavy at 63.5 grams. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Dream switch for longer typing or gaming sessions, while those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may prefer the Thunder Shadow for a more pronounced typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, it is clear that the Dream has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Thunder Shadow's 3.5 mm. The Dream offers a more traditional feel with its 4.0mm travel distance, while the Thunder Shadow provides a shorter and potentially more responsive experience with its 3.5 mm distance. Gamers may prefer the Thunder Shadow for its faster response time, while others may find the Dream to offer a more satisfying depth when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired feel when using the keyboard.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Dream has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Dream for $3.76.
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 Dareu Dream linear switch is known for its clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and percussive noise when pressed. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch offers a neutral sound signature, suitable for various settings and preferences. While the Dream switch may appeal to those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory experience, the Thunder Shadow switch caters to a wider audience with its versatile sound profile.
When it comes to feel, the Dareu Dream linear switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force for activation and providing a low-impact typing feel. The Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, on the other hand, offers an invigorating typing sensation with pronounced feedback and a moderate to firm actuation force. While the Dream switch focuses on a gentle and effortless typing experience, the Thunder Shadow switch delivers a more immersive and tactile feel for users who prefer a more engaging typing experience.
Overall, the Dareu Dream linear switch and Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Dream switch stands out for its clacky sound and easy-to-press feel, making it a suitable choice for those seeking a light linear option. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow switch impresses with its neutral sound profile and invigorating tactile feedback, appealing to users looking for a medium weight switch with a balanced typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches provide quality options that cater to a range of typing styles and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you value a very light linear option at an attractive price point, the Dream may be the way to go. However, if you prefer a medium weight feel with a pronounced tactile bump and a neutral sound signature, the Thunder Shadow is the better choice. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you are looking for. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose wisely based on what suits your typing style and preferences best.
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