Dareu Holly vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the Dareu Holly and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Dareu Holly and Aflion Thunder Shadow are both tactile switches that offer unique typing experiences. The Holly switch stands out with its medium 50g actuation force and a sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements, appealing to users seeking a balanced and distinctive feel while typing. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow by Aflion features a pronounced tactile bump and a 63.5g bottom-out weight, providing a medium-weight feel with a neutral sound signature that complements its overall balance. Both switches have their own strengths and cater to different preferences, making them excellent choices for users looking for tactile switches. 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
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 Holly and Aflion Thunder Shadow both feature polycarbonate top housings, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches that prioritize sound quality. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it perfect for switches designed to be used with RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through for a visually appealing effect. Overall, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches enhances the typing experience with its unique sound profile.
On the other hand, the Holly and Thunder Shadow differ in their bottom housing materials, with the Holly featuring a nylon bottom housing and the Thunder Shadow also opting for nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. The split between the qualities brought by the top and bottom housings means that users will experience a combination of sharpness and depth in the sound profiles of both the Holly and Thunder Shadow switches.
While the top and bottom housing materials differ between the Dareu Holly and Aflion Thunder Shadow, they both offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The polycarbonate top housing in both switches provides a sharper, more resonant sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound. The combination of these materials in each switch allows for a balanced typing experience, with a mix of sharpness and depth in the sound produced. Whether you prefer a crisper sound with the Holly's polycarbonate top housing or a fuller sound with the Thunder Shadow's nylon bottom housing, both switches offer quality construction and design for an enhanced typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, it is evident that they differ in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Holly requires an actuation force of 50 grams, while the Thunder Shadow's actuation force is unknown. In terms of bottom out force, the Holly does not provide a specific value, whereas the Thunder Shadow has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which falls in the medium-heavy range. This means that the Holly may feel lighter to type on compared to the Thunder Shadow, which provides a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Holly may be the better option, while the Thunder Shadow would be ideal for individuals who enjoy a more tactile and heavier keystroke. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, it is evident that the Holly has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Thunder Shadow's 3.5 mm. The Holly's 4.0mm travel distance offers a more traditional key press feel, while the Thunder Shadow's 3.5 mm provides a slightly shallower press. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances for quicker response times, making the Thunder Shadow a favorable choice in that aspect. However, for those who appreciate a deeper press and a more substantial feel when typing, the Holly would be the preferred option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference, with the Holly offering a longer travel distance and the Thunder Shadow providing a slightly shorter one.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Holly has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Holly 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
When it comes to sound, the Dareu Holly switch offers a unique combination of chirpy and clacky elements, creating a distinctive typing experience that stands out in a crowd. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow switch provides a more neutral sound profile, appealing to a wider range of users looking for a harmonious and balanced auditory experience. While the Holly switch leans towards a more playful and lively sound signature, the Thunder Shadow switch offers a more versatile and adaptable option that can cater to various preferences and environments.
Moving on to the feel, the Holly switch's tactile feedback is not explicitly described, suggesting a potential mystery or lack of emphasis on this aspect. In contrast, the Aflion Thunder Shadow switch delivers an invigorating typing experience with pronounced feedback, a moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy, reactive feel. This tactile sensation provides users with an immersive and engaging typing experience that can enhance both productivity and enjoyment while typing.
Considering both switches' subjective qualities, the Dareu Holly and Aflion Thunder Shadow switches offer distinct sound and feel profiles that cater to different preferences and typing styles. While the Holly switch emphasizes a unique sound signature with a balanced tactile feel, the Thunder Shadow switch prioritizes a harmonious tactile experience with a neutral sound profile. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. It is important to consider factors such as personal typing style, preference for auditory feedback, and desired level of tactility when deciding between these two switches. If you prefer a more playful sound with a balanced feel, the Holly switch may be the way to go, while the Thunder Shadow switch offers a more versatile and adaptable option for a broader range of users.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, consider the following factors. If you are looking for a unique typing experience with a balanced and distinctive sound profile that combines chirpy and clacky elements, the Holly switch with its 50g actuation force may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a pronounced tactile bump and a medium-heavy bottom-out force of 63.5 grams that offers a harmonious balance and a neutral sound signature, the Thunder Shadow switch from Aflion may be more suitable for your typing preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for sound, feel, and typing experience. Choose the switch that aligns best with your unique preferences and typing style.
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