Akko Fairy vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the Akko Fairy and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko Fairy and the Aflion Thunder Shadow stand out as popular choices, each offering unique features tailored to different preferences. The Akko Fairy, known for its linear switch design, is perfect for office settings due to its refined lubrication that provides a smooth typing experience. With a medium weight that strikes a balance between satisfying key presses and comfortable extended use, the Fairy switch is ideal for a quieter workspace and daily professional tasks. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow, a tactile switch, boasts a pronounced tactile bump and a harmonious overall balance. With a 63.5g bottom-out weight and a neutral sound signature, the Thunder Shadow switch offers an invigorating typing experience ideal for those who seek precise 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
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Standard
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
17mm stainless steel spring
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko Fairy and Aflion Thunder Shadow differ significantly when it comes to their top housings. The Fairy uses a nylon top housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow features a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper and crisper sound profile thanks to its stiffer plastic material. While both materials have their unique characteristics, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile.
In terms of bottom housings, however, both the Fairy and Thunder Shadow utilize nylon material. This means that when typing on these switches, users can expect a similar deep and fuller sound profile as nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound and create a rounder sound. The consistency in bottom housing material between the two switches suggests that users who prefer the sound profile associated with nylon will have a comparable typing experience regardless of which keyboard they choose.
When considering the impact of having different top and bottom housings, it's important to note how each material contributes to the overall typing experience. The qualities brought by the bottom housing, such as impact on bottom-out sound and feel, will be more pronounced in switches like the Thunder Shadow with a polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing. On the other hand, the top housing material will have a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key, providing users with a balanced and dynamic sound profile when typing on these switches. Ultimately, the combination of top and bottom housing materials plays a critical role in shaping the overall typing feel and sound profile of a keyboard.
Weight
The Akko Fairy linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch both fall within the medium force range, with the Fairy being slightly lighter overall. The Fairy has an actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Thunder Shadow, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Fairy has a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Thunder Shadow has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making the Thunder Shadow slightly heavier in that aspect. Lighter switches like the Fairy are favored by those who prefer typing for extended periods or engaging in long gaming sessions, while heavier switches like the Thunder Shadow are preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Akko Fairy 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 Fairy. Both of these distances fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular among gamers for their quick response times. However, the slight difference may be noticeable to users who have a preference for either a slightly shorter or longer travel distance. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific feel that each user is looking for in their typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko Fairy has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Fairy for $3.10.
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, both the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch are described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that they provide a moderate sound level that is suitable for a variety of settings, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and can be used at home or in a professional environment. The muted quality of the Fairy switch offers a quieter typing experience, ideal for office settings where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. On the other hand, the neutral sound signature of the Thunder Shadow complements its tactile bump, creating a harmonious balance that is pleasing to the ear.
When it comes to feel, the Akko Fairy switch is known for its polished and mild characteristics, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with gentle resistance. The factory-applied lubrication ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel, making it comfortable for extended use without causing fatigue. In contrast, the Aflion Thunder Shadow switch offers an invigorating typing sensation with pronounced feedback and a moderate to firm actuation force. This tactile bump provides a snappy and reactive feel, enhancing the overall typing experience.
Overall, both the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Fairy switch excels in providing a quiet and comfortable typing experience, making it ideal for office environments where noise levels need to be minimized. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow switch stands out for its pronounced tactile bump and invigorating feel, appealing to users who enjoy a more tactile typing experience. Depending on your personal preference for sound and feel, you can expect similar levels of satisfaction with either switch based on the provided information.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the Akko Fairy linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, consider the specific needs of your typing environment. If you prioritize a smooth and quiet typing experience for office settings, the Fairy switch with its medium weight and muted sound profile may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you seek a tactile bump and a balanced feel with a neutral sound profile, the Thunder Shadow switch from Aflion may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique benefits, so it's important to assess your personal preferences and typing requirements before making a decision.
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