Durock Medium Tactile vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the Durock Medium Tactile and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Medium Tactile and the Aflion Thunder Shadow mechanical keyboard switches, both offer a pronounced tactile bump for a satisfying typing experience. The Durock Medium Tactile is praised for its balanced tactility and jelly-like sound signature, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a more polished feel. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow stands out for its medium weight and neutral sound signature, showcasing Aflion's commitment to innovation. While the Durock switch is categorized as accented, stepped, mild, and polished, the Thunder Shadow is labeled invigorating and neutral. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that appeal to different preferences. However, let's delve a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
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 Medium Tactile 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 stiff nature of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. However, while both switches have polycarbonate top housings, the differences in their bottom housing materials will impact the overall sound and feel of each switch.
The Medium Tactile and Thunder Shadow both utilize nylon bottom housings, which are known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. This creates a unique typing experience that differs from the sharper sound profile produced by the polycarbonate top housing. The combination of polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings in both switches creates a balance of sound characteristics that can enhance the overall typing experience for users.
In conclusion, while the Durock Medium Tactile and Aflion Thunder Shadow have similarities in their housing materials, the differences in their top and bottom housing materials result in distinct typing experiences. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches creates a sharper sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound experience. These contrasting qualities provide users with options to choose a switch that best suits their typing preferences, whether they prefer a crisper sound with more impact on bottom-out or a deeper sound with a rounder feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, both switches have an actuation force of None grams, meaning they require the same amount of force to trigger a keystroke. However, the Durock Medium Tactile has a bottom out force of 65 grams, slightly heavier than the Aflion Thunder Shadow which has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams. In terms of weight, the Durock switch offers a slightly heavier typing experience, which may be preferred by those looking for a more substantial feel. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow provides a lighter typing experience, ideal for longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions where fatigue may become a factor. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Medium Tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Aflion Thunder Shadow switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Medium Tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Thunder Shadow. For those who prioritize a deeper key press, the Medium Tactile switch may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow offers a slightly shorter travel distance, making it a suitable option for those looking for quicker response times, such as gamers. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances and will provide a satisfying typing or gaming experience, but the slight difference in travel distance may impact the feel of each switch for individual preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Medium Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Medium Tactile 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 Medium Tactile switch offers a jelly-like sound signature, while the Aflion Thunder Shadow switch provides a neutral sound profile that is suitable for various purposes. Both switches have different sound characteristics, but depending on the keyboard and keycaps used, the results may vary.
In terms of feel, the Medium Tactile switch is described as accented, stepped, mild, and polished, offering a balance between tactility and smoothness. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow switch is characterized as invigorating, providing a pronounced tactile feedback and a reactive feel. While the Medium Tactile switch aims for a medium tactile experience, the Thunder Shadow switch offers a more immersive typing sensation.
Overall, the Durock Medium Tactile switch is known for its balanced tactility and jelly-like sound signature, providing a unique typing experience. Meanwhile, the Aflion Thunder Shadow switch focuses on a pronounced tactile bump and a harmonious overall feel, showcasing the brand's commitment to innovation. Depending on personal preferences and typing style, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different user needs. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Durock Medium Tactile and Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switches, you should consider the level of tactility you prefer. If you enjoy switches with a balanced tactility and a jelly-like sound signature, the Durock Medium Tactile would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer switches with a pronounced tactile bump and a harmonious overall balance, along with a neutral sound profile, the Aflion Thunder Shadow would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for the level of tactility and sound profile that best enhances your typing experience. Choose wisely based on what features matter most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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