Outemu Blue Jade vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the Outemu Blue Jade and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When deciding between mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch both offer unique features to enhance your typing experience. The Blue Jade is best known for its satisfying clicky feedback, perfect for those who enjoy auditory cues with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow from Aflion is celebrated for its pronounced tactile bump, providing a tactile response without the loud click. The Thunder Shadow strikes a harmonious balance with its 63.5g bottom-out, ensuring a medium weight feel that caters to a wide range of typists. While the Blue Jade is perfect for those who crave the audible click, the Thunder Shadow offers a more subtle typing experience. 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
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.20 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Blue Jade and the Aflion Thunder Shadow differ in terms of the materials used. The Blue Jade features a nylon top housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer plastic that creates a more clear and resonant sound. The aesthetic difference also comes into play, with the translucent polycarbonate in the Thunder Shadow being ideal for RGB lighting.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Blue Jade and the Thunder Shadow feature a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer plastic's ability to absorb more sound. This consistent use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches allows for a consistent typing experience in terms of sound. However, the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel may vary slightly between the two switches based on other factors such as spring weight and stem design.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the Outemu Blue Jade and the Aflion Thunder Shadow reflect in the sound profiles and aesthetics of the switches. While both switches offer a deep and full sound due to the nylon bottom housing, the choice between a nylon top housing for a duller, rounder sound in the Blue Jade or a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper, crisper sound in the Thunder Shadow will ultimately come down to personal preference in sound and appearance. Ultimately, the choice of housing material plays a significant role in the overall typing experience and sound produced by the switches.
Weight
The Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, both switches have a similar medium-heavy bottom out force, with the Blue Jade requiring 65 grams and the Thunder Shadow needing 63.5 grams. Those looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the Blue Jade switch for its lighter actuation force, making it more suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow switch may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing feel with its slightly heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing feel and force required for keystrokes.
Travel distance
The Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Blue Jade has a slightly longer travel distance, making it better suited for those who prefer a deeper keystroke feel. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow has a shorter travel distance, making it ideal for those who prioritize faster response times, such as gamers. Both switches offer distinct advantages based on their travel distance, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of typing or gaming experience.
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 Outemu Blue Jade comes in at $3.10 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 Outemu Blue Jade and the Aflion Thunder Shadow offer different experiences. The Blue Jade switch's sound profile is unknown, while the Thunder Shadow switch is known for its neutral sound signature, making it suitable for a variety of users and settings. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Blue Jade is known for None, so it is difficult to compare in this aspect. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow switch is described as offering an invigorating typing experience. With a pronounced tactile bump, moderate to firm actuation force, and a reactive feel, users can expect an immersive typing sensation when using the Thunder Shadow switch.
Overall, while the Blue Jade and Thunder Shadow switches may differ in sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer a switch with a distinct tactile bump like the Thunder Shadow, or if you are looking for a switch with unknown characteristics like the Blue Jade, it is important to consider your typing style and preferences when choosing between these two options. Ultimately, both switches are sure to provide a satisfying typing experience for those looking to enhance their mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience and sound profile. If you enjoy a clicky switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and don't mind a louder typing sound, the Blue Jade may be the choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a slightly lighter bottom out force, a pronounced tactile bump, and a neutral sound profile, the Aflion Thunder Shadow could be the better option. Consider your typing style, environment, and personal preferences to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience in different ways.
Mentioned in this article
