Outemu Lime (V3) vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the Outemu Lime (V3) and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Lime and the Aflion Thunder Shadow both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Lime is praised for its lightweight build, approachable tactility, and silenced operation, making it an excellent choice for tactile enthusiasts seeking a feathery typing experience. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow by Aflion stands out for its pronounced tactile bump and medium weight feel, striking a harmonious balance with a neutral sound signature. While the Lime provides a subtle and polished typing feel, the Thunder Shadow offers an invigorating tactile experience. 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
35g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
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 Outemu Lime and Aflion Thunder Shadow both use different materials for their top housing, with the Lime featuring a nylon top housing and the Thunder Shadow featuring a polycarbonate top housing. The nylon top housing of the Lime creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing of the Thunder Shadow produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile thanks to its stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. While the two materials offer different sound profiles, they both offer unique benefits in terms of sound quality.
On the other hand, both the Outemu Lime and Aflion Thunder Shadow use nylon for their bottom housing. This shared material in the bottom housing of both switches results in a similar deep and full sound profile, as nylon's softness absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. Despite having different top housing materials, the shared nylon bottom housing allows for consistency in the sound profile of these switches. This similarity in bottom housing material means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel when using either the Lime or Thunder Shadow switches.
In switches where the top and bottom housings are different, such as the Outemu Lime and Aflion Thunder Shadow, the qualities of each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This division of housing materials allows for a more nuanced and varied typing experience, as users can feel and hear the differences between the top and bottom housings in each keystroke.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, it is evident that the Lime is the lighter option with an actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow is heavier, with a bottom out force of 63.5 grams. The actuation force for the Thunder Shadow is not provided. Those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming may lean towards the Lime, while individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may favor the Thunder Shadow for its heavier bottom out force. Both switches have their own advantages, with the Lime offering a light touch and the Thunder Shadow providing a more pronounced keystroke feel.
Travel distance
The Outemu Lime tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that have become popular among gamers for their faster response times. The Lime switch provides a slightly shorter travel distance, making it ideal for those who prioritize quick and precise keystrokes. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow switch offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Outemu Lime (V3) comes in at $3.40 per 10 switches.
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 Outemu Lime and Aflion Thunder Shadow switches are described as having a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various environments and preferences. Additionally, the Lime switches offer a muted sound which minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be impacted by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Lime switches provide a feathery and light typing experience, perfect for reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. These switches also offer a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches are described as invigorating, offering pronounced feedback and a snappy typing sensation. Both switches provide unique tactile experiences that cater to different preferences in terms of actuation force and feedback.
In conclusion, both the Outemu Lime and Aflion Thunder Shadow switches offer distinctive qualities that appeal to tactile enthusiasts. While the Lime switches provide a lighter and more polished typing experience with muted sound, the Thunder Shadow switches offer a more invigorating and pronounced tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience desired. Whether selecting the Lime or Thunder Shadow, users can expect a satisfying typing experience tailored to their preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, consider the type of typing experience you are looking for. If you prefer a light and feathery typing experience with a touch of tactility, the Lime switch with its 45-gram bottom-out force would be ideal for you. On the other hand, if you are seeking a medium-heavy switch with a pronounced tactile bump and a harmonious balance overall, the Thunder Shadow switch with its 63.5-gram bottom-out force would be a great choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound profile.
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