Cherry MX Brown vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Brown and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for a mechanical keyboard switch that offers a perfect balance between tactility and typing experience, both the Cherry MX Brown and the Aflion Thunder Shadow come to mind. The Cherry MX Brown switch is known for its subtlety, providing gentle tactility and subdued audio feedback, making it ideal for those who prefer a light typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow offers a more pronounced tactile bump and a medium weight feel, with a neutral sound signature that complements its overall balance. While the MX Brown switch is categorized as 'Textured', 'Bassy', and 'Low-pitched', the Thunder Shadow is labeled as 'Invigorating' and 'Neutral'. Each switch has its own strengths and characteristics, catering to different preferences and typing styles. 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
55g
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
No
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
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Brown and the Aflion Thunder Shadow, it is evident that they both feature nylon bottom housings, which are known for providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to their softness and sound-absorbing properties. This similarity means that users of both switches can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel. However, when it comes to the top housings, the MX Brown utilizes nylon, while the Thunder Shadow uses polycarbonate. The polycarbonate top housing of the Thunder Shadow creates a sharper and crisper sound profile compared to the duller and rounder sound produced by the nylon top housing of the MX Brown.
On the surface level, the choice of housing materials between the MX Brown and Thunder Shadow may seem like a small detail, but it plays a significant role in the overall typing experience. The clear polycarbonate top housing of the Thunder Shadow enhances the visual aesthetics of the switch, especially when paired with RGB lighting. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the MX Brown may not have the same visual appeal but offers a softer and more absorbing sound profile. This contrast showcases how different materials can impact not only the sound but also the overall user experience of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Ultimately, the decision between the Cherry MX Brown and the Aflion Thunder Shadow housing materials comes down to personal preference. Some users may prefer the sharper and crisper sound profile provided by the Thunder Shadow's polycarbonate top housing, while others may appreciate the softer and fuller sound profile of the MX Brown's nylon top housing. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, demonstrating how housing materials can influence the overall feel and sound of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, there are noticeable differences. The Cherry MX Brown has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it a medium-light switch. In contrast, the Aflion Thunder Shadow has an actuation force that is unknown and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Cherry MX Brown for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those looking for a stronger push feel may opt for the Aflion Thunder Shadow for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Thunder Shadow has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the MX Brown. The difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the feel and response of the switch. Generally, a shorter travel distance is preferred for faster response times, which may cater more to gamers. On the other hand, a longer travel distance can provide a more satisfying and tactile typing experience for some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the type of typing experience you are looking for.
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 Cherry MX Brown comes in at $4.00 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
When it comes to sound, the Cherry MX Brown switches are known for their bassy and low-pitched tones, offering a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches maintain a neutral sound signature, striking a balance between different frequency ranges. Depending on personal preferences and setup, both switches can provide a satisfying auditory experience, with the MX Brown leaning towards a warmer sound and the Thunder Shadow offering a more uniform tone.
In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Brown switches are often described as textured, providing users with a slight tactile feedback and noticeable friction when pressed. This can enhance the typing experience for those who prefer a bit of resistance. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches offer an invigorating feel, with pronounced feedback and a moderate to firm actuation force, resulting in a snappy and reactive typing sensation. While both switches offer tactile feedback, the Thunder Shadow may appeal more to users who prefer a more intense typing experience.
Overall, both the Cherry MX Brown and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The MX Brown is praised for its subtlety in both sound and feel, providing a gentle typing experience with subdued audio feedback. Meanwhile, the Thunder Shadow switches offer a more pronounced tactile bump and a harmonious balance, ensuring a medium weight feel with a neutral sound signature. Whether you choose the Cherry MX Brown or the Aflion Thunder Shadow, you can expect a satisfactory typing experience tailored to your preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between Cherry MX Brown and Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switches, consider your preference for bottom-out force and typing experience. If you prefer a lighter typing experience with gentle tactility and subdued audio feedback, the Cherry MX Brown with a bottom-out force of 55 grams might be the better choice for you. However, if you prefer a slightly heavier feel with a pronounced tactile bump and a harmonious balance overall, the Aflion Thunder Shadow with a bottom-out force of 63.5 grams could be the ideal option. Additionally, take into account the sound profile you prefer, with the MX Brown offering a bassy and low-pitched sound, while the Thunder Shadow provides a neutral sound signature. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.
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