Gateron Oil King (V2) vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that often come to mind are the Gateron Oil King, a linear switch, and the Aflion Thunder Shadow, a tactile switch. The Oil King is praised for its smooth and buttery feel, with a sound profile that brings to mind a snapping dark chocolate bar. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow by Aflion is known for its pronounced tactile bump and medium weight feel, all while maintaining a neutral sound signature. While the Oil King offers a silky and polished typing experience, the Thunder Shadow provides an invigorating tactile feedback. 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
55g
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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Oil King features a nylon top housing that provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, absorbing more sound and creating a rounder sound. In contrast, the Aflion Thunder Shadow's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffer plastic material. While both materials excel at enhancing sound quality, the Nylon top housing of the Oil King offers a more muted and dull sound, whereas the polycarbonate top housing of the Thunder Shadow delivers a more clear and resonant sound, especially useful for RGB lighting effects.
On the other hand, the bottom housing materials of the two switches differ, with the Oil King boasting a proprietary INK blend that contributes to a pointed and high-pitched, yet not overly sharp, sound profile for a satisfying clacky typing experience. In comparison, the Thunder Shadow's nylon bottom housing also provides a deep and full sound profile, similar to the Nylon top housing's characteristics. Despite these differences, both switches offer a unique typing experience based on the distinct qualities of their bottom housing materials.
Overall, the combination of top and bottom housing materials in a switch plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and typing experience. While the Gateron Oil King features different housing materials for its top and bottom, splitting the qualities between the two components, the Aflion Thunder Shadow utilizes the same material for both top and bottom housings, maintaining a consistent typing experience throughout. Whether it's the deeper and fuller sound of the Oil King's nylon top housing or the sharper and crisper sound of the Thunder Shadow's polycarbonate top housing, both switches offer a unique auditory and tactile experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Gateron Oil King linear switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the Oil King is heavier at 65 grams compared to the Thunder Shadow's bottom out force of 63.5 grams. Both switches fall within the medium-heavy force range, providing users with a substantial typing experience. Those who prefer a slightly lighter feel may lean towards the Oil King, while individuals looking for a bit more resistance might opt for the Thunder Shadow. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Oil King linear 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 is the shorter option compared to the Oil King. The difference may seem slight, but it can impact the typing experience significantly. The shorter travel distance of the Thunder Shadow may appeal to those seeking faster response times, especially gamers. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Oil King may provide a more satisfying keystroke for those who prefer a deeper feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and typing style, with the shorter distance offering quicker responses and the longer distance providing a more pronounced keystroke.
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 Gateron Oil King (V2) comes in at $6.50 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 comparing the subjective qualities of the Gateron Oil King linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, we can see distinct differences in both sound and feel. The Oil King is known for its low-pitched and bassy sound profile, providing a deep and rich tone during key presses. In contrast, the Thunder Shadow features a more neutral sound signature, offering a moderate actuation force requirement suitable for various typing preferences. Moving onto feel, the Oil King is praised for its creamy, silky, buttery, and polished typing experience, providing a smooth and effortless keystroke sensation. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow is described as invigorating, offering pronounced feedback, a snappy and reactive feel for a more immersive typing experience. Overall, while the Oil King focuses on a smooth and luxurious feel with a deep sound profile, the Thunder Shadow aims for a balanced tactile experience with a neutral sound signature. Depending on personal preferences, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing styles and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron Oil King linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a smooth and buttery typing sensation with a low-pitched or bassy sound profile, the Oil King may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile bump with a neutral sound signature and an invigorating typing experience, the Thunder Shadow may be more suited to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a luxurious typing feel or a tactile feedback sensation. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so choose wisely based on what feels right for you.
Mentioned in this article
