Durock Koala vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the Durock Koala and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Koala and Aflion Thunder Shadow both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Durock Koala is renowned for its perfect middle ground, providing a distinct tactile bump without being too overwhelming. With a stepped tactility and a bit of resonance, these switches are categorized as polished, low-pitched, accented, neutral, stepped, and stiff. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow, a product from the emerging brand Aflion, offers a pronounced tactile bump and a harmonious balance overall. With a 63.5g bottom-out weight and a neutral sound signature, these switches are invigorating and neutral. Each switch has its own appeal and advantages, making them suitable for different typing experiences. 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
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Standard
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
Gold-plated spring
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Durock Koala and the Aflion Thunder Shadow feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which allows for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, as it enhances the overall aesthetic of the keyboard. With both switches using the same material for their top housings, users can expect similar sound characteristics and visual appeal.
On the other hand, the Koala utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Thunder Shadow also incorporates a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. With both switches featuring nylon bottom housings, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel. This consistency in housing materials between the two switches ensures that users will have a similar tactile experience regardless of the specific switch they choose.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in both the Durock Koala and the Aflion Thunder Shadow contributes significantly to the overall typing experience. While both switches have polycarbonate top housings for a sharper sound profile and enhanced aesthetics with RGB lighting, the nylon bottom housings provide a deeper and fuller sound experience. The split between top and bottom housing materials allows for a well-rounded typing experience that takes into account both the sound and feel of the switch. Whether opting for the Koala or the Thunder Shadow, users can expect high-quality housing materials that enhance the overall keyboarding experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Koala tactile switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, it is clear that the Koala has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 67 grams compared to the Thunder Shadow's 63.5 grams. Both switches have an unknown actuation force, but the heavier bottom out force of the Koala suggests that it may require a slightly stronger push to trigger a keystroke compared to the Thunder Shadow. For those who prefer a more substantial typing experience, the Koala may be the more preferred option due to its slightly heavier bottom out force. However, for users who prefer a lighter typing feel for longer periods of use, the Thunder Shadow may be the better choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Durock Koala tactile switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, it is evident that the Koala has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Thunder Shadow has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the typical range of travel distances for mechanical keyboards, with 4.0 mm being more traditional and 3.0 mm being on the shallower end. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Thunder Shadow for faster response times, while others may find the longer travel distance of the Koala to provide a more satisfying depth when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Koala has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Koala for $4.21.
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, both the Durock Koala and Aflion Thunder Shadow switches are described as having a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various environments and preferences. The Koala may offer a slightly low-pitched sound, giving it a bass-heavy and mellow tone, while the Thunder Shadow maintains a balanced sound signature. Ultimately, the sound of a switch will also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Durock Koala switch is known for its polished and stepped tactility, providing a refined and smooth typing experience with a pronounced bump that is not overwhelming. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow switch is described as invigorating, offering pronounced feedback and a moderate to firm actuation force for a snappy and reactive feel. While the Koala offers a more stepped tactile experience, the Thunder Shadow provides a more immersive typing sensation.
Overall, both the Durock Koala and Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Koala strikes a balance between a pronounced bump and moderate sound, while the Thunder Shadow provides a more invigorating tactile feel with a neutral sound signature. Depending on whether you prefer a slightly low-pitched sound or a more immersive typing experience, both switches are capable of delivering satisfying results in their own right. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking to achieve.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Durock Koala tactile switch or the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force with a pronounced bump in the middle of the keystroke and a bit of resonance without being too loud, the Durock Koalas would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you seek a harmonious balance with a medium weight feel, a neutral sound signature, and a pronounced tactile bump, the Aflion Thunder Shadows would be an excellent option. Both switches offer a polished typing experience, with the Koalas providing a more accented and stepped tactile feel, while the Thunder Shadows deliver an invigorating typing sensation. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for a specific tactile feel and sound profile.
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