HMX Lotus vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the HMX Lotus and the Aflion Thunder Shadow. The Lotus, a linear switch, is known for its medium weight of 50g bottom out and bright, resonant sound, providing a super bouncy feeling with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow, a tactile switch from Aflion, boasts a pronounced tactile bump and a medium weight of 63.5g bottom out. While the Lotus offers a delightful typing experience with its bouncy feel, the Thunder Shadow strikes a harmonious balance of tactile feedback and sound signature. This makes it a great choice for those looking for a tactile typing 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
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
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
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Lotus and the Aflion Thunder Shadow play a significant role in the sound profile of the switches. The Lotus features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Thunder Shadow utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The choice between nylon and polycarbonate top housing ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound aesthetics.
Both the Lotus and the Thunder Shadow feature nylon bottom housings, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile similar to the top housing. The use of nylon in the bottom housing allows for a more muted and rounder sound when typing on the switches. While both switches share the same bottom housing material, the differences in their top housings provide unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences. Overall, the nylon bottom housing of both switches ensures a consistent feel and sound experience when typing.
In switches where the top and bottom housings are different, such as the Lotus and the Thunder Shadow, the qualities of each housing material are divided between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Understanding the role of each housing material is essential for enthusiasts looking to customize their typing experience based on sound preferences. Ultimately, whether nylon or polycarbonate, both housing materials contribute to the overall sound profile and feel of the switch.
Weight
The HMX Lotus linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, which has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 63.5 grams. The Lotus also has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Lotus make it a better option for those who prefer a smoother and faster typing experience, while the Thunder Shadow's heavier bottom out force provides a more tactile and substantial typing feel. Both switches offer unique benefits depending on individual preferences, with the Lotus being ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch and the Thunder Shadow catering to users who prefer a heavier push. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal typing preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The HMX Lotus linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch both have a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. The similarity in travel distance between the two switches results in a consistent typing experience for users. Overall, both switches offer a good amount of travel distance for a satisfying typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Lotus has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lotus for $2.99.
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 Lotus switches offer a bright and resonant tone that can be quite satisfying to the ears during typing sessions. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow switches provide a neutral sound profile that is suitable for a wide range of users and environments, making them a versatile option for various typing scenarios.
In terms of feel, the Lotus switches are known for their super bouncy sensation, offering a delightful keystroke experience with a medium weight of 50g bottom out. In contrast, the Thunder Shadow switches are characterized by a pronounced tactile bump that provides a satisfying feedback to the fingers, creating an invigorating typing sensation with a 63.5g bottom-out weight.
Overall, both the HMX Lotus linear switches and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Lotus switches provide a bright and resonant sound with a super bouncy feel, while the Thunder Shadow switches offer a neutral sound profile and an invigorating tactile experience. Depending on your personal preference for sound and feel, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience that meets your specific needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. Opt for the Lotus if you prefer a light feel with a bright, resonant sound that provides a super bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, choose the Thunder Shadow if you prefer a medium-heavy feel with a pronounced tactile bump, balanced overall with a neutral sound signature. The Thunder Shadow offers a harmonious typing experience with its moderate actuation force and snappy, reactive feel. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your preference for key feel and sound profile.
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