Durock Lupine vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the Durock Lupine and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, it all comes down to personal preference. The Lupine is celebrated for its two-stage long springs that provide a unique typing experience, offering a consistent weight distribution on the press and a powerful rebound movement. With a classic clacky sound profile, the Lupine switch falls into the category of neutral, mild, high-pitched, and polished. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow by Aflion boasts a pronounced tactile bump and a harmonious balance that creates a medium weight feel with a 63.5g bottom-out. The neutral sound signature of the Thunder Shadow switch adds to the overall appeal, placing it in the category of invigorating and neutral. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
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
3.70 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
Two-stage long spring
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Durock Lupine and the Aflion Thunder Shadow feature polycarbonate top housings, which produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate. This material allows for a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting. However, the nylon bottom housings of the Lupine and Thunder Shadow offer a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is softer and absorbs more sound. This creates a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing.
While both the Lupine and the Thunder Shadow utilize polycarbonate top housings, as well as nylon bottom housings, they differ in their overall sound profiles. The Lupine's combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing results in a switch that offers a mix of sharpness and depth in its sound profile. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow's use of the same materials may provide a similar experience in terms of sound, with the polycarbonate top housing contributing to a sharper sound and the nylon bottom housing adding depth. Despite these differences, both switches are designed to deliver a satisfying typing experience with their unique housing materials.
In terms of design, both the Durock Lupine and the Aflion Thunder Shadow prioritize the use of polycarbonate for their top housings, allowing for the inclusion of RGB lighting. This material choice not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the switches but also contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile. Meanwhile, the nylon bottom housings of both switches add a touch of softness to the sound, creating a fuller typing experience. Overall, while the Lupine and Thunder Shadow share similar housing materials, their individual characteristics and design choices make them distinct options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts looking for a premium typing experience.
Weight
The Durock Lupine linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Lupine has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is medium, while the Thunder Shadow has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it medium-heavy. Both switches have an unknown actuation force, but they are likely to be similar due to their comparable bottom out forces. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, the Lupine may be the better choice. In contrast, the Thunder Shadow offers a slightly heavier bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing experience for users who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, it is evident that the Lupine has a slightly longer travel distance at 3.7 mm compared to the Thunder Shadow's 3.5 mm. While the difference may seem minimal, it could be a factor to consider for those looking for a more pronounced key press feel. The Lupine offers a bit more depth in travel distance, which may be preferable for users who enjoy a more substantial keystroke. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow's slightly shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers or users seeking a quicker response time. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming increasingly popular, providing a balance between depth and responsiveness. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and response time.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Lupine has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lupine for $4.25.
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 Lupine linear switch has a high-pitched and clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and crisp auditory experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch offers a neutral sound signature, which complements its tactile bump and medium weight feel. Both switches cater to different preferences in sound, with the Lupine offering a more distinctive and intense auditory feedback, while the Thunder Shadow provides a more balanced and versatile sound profile suitable for various environments.
In terms of feel, the Durock Lupine linear switch is described as mild and polished, offering a gentle and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch is noted for its invigorating feel, providing pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy, reactive sensation while typing. While both switches offer unique tactile experiences, the Lupine focuses on a smoother and more subdued typing feel, while the Thunder Shadow brings a more dynamic and engaging tactile feedback to the table.
Overall, the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch present contrasting subjective qualities in both sound and feel. The Lupine excels in providing a high-pitched and clacky sound profile with a mild and polished typing feel, catering to users who prefer a more distinct auditory and tactile experience. In contrast, the Thunder Shadow offers a neutral sound signature combined with an invigorating tactile feedback, appealing to those who seek a balanced sound profile and a more engaging typing sensation. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound and typing feel, as both options offer unique and enjoyable qualities for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, consider your preferences and typing style. If you prefer a linear switch with a medium bottom out force and a classic clacky sound profile, the Lupine is a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a slightly heavier bottom out force and a neutral sound signature, the Thunder Shadow might be more suited to your tastes. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing experiences, so choose the one that best suits your typing preferences and needs.
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