PH Studio Milk Tea vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Milk Tea and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, there are notable differences in their sound profile and actuation force. The Milk Tea offers a unique auditory experience with a high-pitched yet muted sound, making it ideal for those who prefer a balance between presence and subtlety during typing sessions. With a lightweight bottom-out force of 43.5g and a stem material designed for effortless keystrokes, the Milk Tea switch is tailored for prolonged typing needs. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow by Aflion features a pronounced tactile bump and a medium weight feel with a 63.5g bottom-out force. Its neutral sound signature complements the tactile feedback, offering an invigorating typing experience. While both switches have their distinct qualities, choosing between them ultimately depends on individual preferences. 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
37.5g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
43.5g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The PH Studio Milk Tea and Aflion Thunder Shadow differ in their choice of housing materials for both the top and bottom. The Milk Tea utilizes POM for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a deep and relatively muted sound profile. In contrast, the Thunder Shadow incorporates polycarbonate for the top housing, creating a sharper and crisper sound. The nylon bottom housing of the Thunder Shadow offers a deeper and fuller sound compared to the POM bottom housing of the Milk Tea. Overall, the choice of housing materials greatly influences the sound profile and typing experience of each keyboard.
While the Milk Tea and Thunder Shadow both offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials, they also have similarities in terms of how the housing materials affect the typing experience. Both POM and polycarbonate are known for their clarity and resonance in sound production, although polycarbonate tends to create a sharper and higher-pitched sound compared to the more muted sound of POM. On the other hand, nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile for the Thunder Shadow's bottom housing. Despite these differences, both keyboards aim to provide a satisfying typing experience through the careful selection of housing materials.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials in keyboards such as the PH Studio Milk Tea and Aflion Thunder Shadow plays a significant role in determining the overall sound profile and typing feel. While the Milk Tea opts for POM for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a deep and muted sound, the Thunder Shadow utilizes polycarbonate for the top and nylon for the bottom, creating a sharper and fuller sound. Understanding how different housing materials affect sound production can help users make informed decisions when selecting a keyboard that best suits their preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, it is clear that the Milk Tea is lighter in both regards. The Milk Tea has an actuation force of 37.5 grams and a bottom out force of 43.5 grams, making it a lighter option overall. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow tactile switch has an unknown actuation force but a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, indicating a medium-heavy feel. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Milk Tea, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Thunder Shadow would be more suitable for individuals who enjoy a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Overall, the different actuation and bottom out forces of these switches cater to varying preferences in typing feel and force.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter end of the spectrum, making them suitable for those who prioritize quick response times. Gamers, in particular, may appreciate the shorter travel distances for faster reactions in their gameplay. However, individuals who prefer a more pronounced key press may find the slightly longer travel distance of the Milk Tea switch more to their liking. Ultimately, the difference of 0.1 mm between the two switches may not be significant enough to sway a decision, as both offer relatively similar travel distances for a tactile typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The PH Studio Milk Tea has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milk Tea for $4.00.
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 PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch is best described as high-pitched and clacky, offering a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch is known for its neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of uses. Depending on personal preferences, some may find the Milk Tea switch more satisfying for a lively typing experience, while others may prefer the Thunder Shadow switch for a more subtle and versatile sound.
Turning to the feel of the switches, the Milk Tea switch is praised for its polished and silky typing experience, providing a smooth and refined finish with reduced friction. In comparison, the Thunder Shadow switch is characterized as invigorating, offering pronounced feedback and a snappy feel for an immersive typing sensation. Those looking for a luxurious and effortless typing experience may lean towards the Milk Tea switch, while individuals seeking a more responsive and energizing feel may opt for the Thunder Shadow switch.
Overall, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Milk Tea switch provides a high-pitched and clacky sound with a polished and silky typing feel, the Thunder Shadow switch offers a neutral sound profile with an invigorating and reactive sensation. Choosing between the two ultimately depends on individual preferences for sound and feel, as both switches cater to different typing experiences. However, it is important to note that the ultimate sound and feel of the switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, your decision should be based on your sound and feel preferences as well as your typing needs. If you prefer a high-pitched and muted sound with a light bottom-out force for prolonged typing sessions, the Milk Tea may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a neutral sound profile and a medium-heavy tactile bump for an invigorating typing sensation, the Thunder Shadow could be more suitable. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on your personal typing style and preferences.
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