Durock Ice King Linear vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the Durock Ice King Linear and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Ice King Linear and the Aflion Thunder Shadow mechanical keyboard switches, it's clear that both offer unique features to cater to different preferences. The Ice King Linear boasts a silky smooth typing experience thanks to its full nylon construction and factory lube, making it a great choice for those who prefer a frictionless and subdued feel while typing. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow is known for its pronounced tactile bump and medium weight feel, providing an invigorating typing experience with a neutral sound signature. Both switches have their distinct characteristics that appeal to different users based on their typing preferences. 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
52g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
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
Nylon
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
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Ice King Linear and the Aflion Thunder Shadow, it is evident that they differ significantly. The Ice King Linear features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic properties that absorb more sound. In contrast, the Thunder Shadow utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While both materials offer unique sound characteristics, the nylon top housing of the Ice King Linear provides a duller and rounder sound compared to the clear polycarbonate top housing of the Thunder Shadow, which is ideal for RGB lighting effects.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing materials of these switches, both the Ice King Linear and the Thunder Shadow opt for nylon. This choice results in a similar deep and full sound profile, as nylon is known for its sound-absorbing properties due to being a softer plastic material. Despite having different top housing materials, the use of nylon for the bottom housing ensures that both switches offer a consistent typing experience with a duller and rounder sound. While the top and bottom housing materials may vary between these two switches, the utilization of nylon for the bottom housing maintains a level of familiarity in sound profile for users.
Overall, the choice between the Durock Ice King Linear and the Aflion Thunder Shadow ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound and typing feel. The Ice King Linear's combination of a nylon top and bottom housing provides a consistent deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Thunder Shadow's polycarbonate top housing leads to a sharper and crisper typing experience. Whether one prefers a softer, duller sound or a clearer, higher-pitched sound, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The adaptation of housing materials plays a crucial role in dictating the overall sound profile and typist experience of each switch, showcasing the importance of material selection in keyboard design.
Weight
The Durock Ice King Linear switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 52 grams compared to the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Ice King Linear requires 62 grams while the Thunder Shadow needs 63.5 grams, making it slightly heavier in this aspect. Both switches fall in the medium range in terms of actuation force, but the Thunder Shadow leans towards medium-heavy in bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter touch for prolonged typing or gaming sessions may find the Ice King Linear more suitable, while those looking for a more substantial typing experience might lean towards the Thunder Shadow for its slightly heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Durock Ice King Linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience a consistent travel distance of 3.5 mm. Therefore, if you are looking for a switch with a specific travel distance, either of these switches would provide similar results. It is important to note that the travel distance of a switch can impact typing feel and overall typing experience, so choosing a switch with a travel distance that suits your preferences is key.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Ice King Linear has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ice King Linear for $4.20.
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 Durock Ice King Linear switch offers a subdued typing experience, producing a dampened sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow switch has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various environments and preferences. The choice between the two would depend on personal preference and the overall setup of your keyboard, including factors like the type of keycaps and keyboard case.
In terms of feel, the Ice King Linear switch is known for its silky, frictionless, creamy, and polished typing experience, offering an exceptionally smooth and effortless feel. Conversely, the Aflion Thunder Shadow switch provides an invigorating typing sensation with pronounced feedback and a moderate to firm actuation force. If you prefer a smoother and more fluid typing experience, the Ice King Linear switch would be the better choice. However, if you enjoy a more tactile and responsive feel while typing, the Thunder Shadow switch might be more appealing to you.
Overall, both the Durock Ice King Linear and Aflion Thunder Shadow switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. If you prioritize a silky smooth typing experience with subtle sound, the Ice King Linear switch is a great option. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile feel with a neutral sound profile, the Thunder Shadow switch would be a suitable choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference and what type of typing experience you are seeking.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, consider the following factors. If you prioritize a smooth typing experience with a medium bottom-out force and a subdued sound profile, the Ice King Linear would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile bump, medium-heavy bottom-out force, and an invigorating typing sensation, opt for the Thunder Shadow. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preference in terms of typing feel and sound. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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