Outemu Blue vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the Outemu Blue and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Blue and the Aflion Thunder Shadow stand out as popular choices among enthusiasts. The Outemu Blue is a clicky switch, known for its satisfying audible feedback and tactile feel. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow is a tactile switch from the up-and-coming brand Aflion, featuring a pronounced tactile bump and a medium weight feel. While the Outemu Blue offers a high level of auditory feedback, the Thunder Shadow provides a more balanced tactile experience with a neutral sound signature. Choosing between these switches ultimately comes down to personal preference and specific needs. 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
N/A
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
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Blue and the Aflion Thunder Shadow both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile thanks to the stiffness of this material. This results in a more clear and resonant sound when typing on these switches. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. However, the nylon bottom housings of both switches differ slightly in sound profile, with nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound and creates a deeper and fuller typing experience. Despite this difference, the overall combination of polycarbonate and nylon in both switches results in a well-rounded sound output.
While the polycarbonate top housings of the Outemu Blue and the Aflion Thunder Shadow provide similar qualities in terms of sound profile, the nylon bottom housings offer a slight variation in the typing experience. The nylon bottom housing of both switches absorbs sound more effectively and creates a deeper, fuller sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate top housing. This means that when typing on these switches, users will experience a mix of sharpness and depth in the sound output. The split between the top and bottom housing materials allows for a more dynamic typing experience, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials in both the Outemu Blue and the Aflion Thunder Shadow results in a balanced and versatile typing experience. The stiffer polycarbonate top housing provides a clear and resonant sound profile, especially when combined with RGB lighting, while the softer nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller typing sound. The split between the top and bottom housings allows for a mix of qualities that cater to various preferences in sound and feel when typing. Whether choosing the Outemu Blue or the Aflion Thunder Shadow, users can expect a high-quality typing experience with a unique blend of housing materials.
Weight
The Outemu Blue clicky switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, while the bottom out force of the Blue switch is not specified. Individuals who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Outemu Blue switch for a smoother typing experience, especially for extended periods of typing or gaming. In contrast, those who enjoy a more pronounced typing feel may opt for the Aflion Thunder Shadow switch with its heavier bottom out force. Both switches offer different tactile experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, so choosing between them would depend on personal preference.
Travel distance
The Outemu Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer of the two switches. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it the shorter option. If you are looking for a switch with a slightly shorter travel distance, the Thunder Shadow may be the better choice for you. However, if you prefer a switch with a bit more depth and a longer travel distance, the Outemu Blue clicky switch would be the way to go. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the specific feel that you are looking for in a keyboard switch.
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 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 clicky switch is known for its loud and satisfying click that is reminiscent of typewriters. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch offers a more neutral sound profile that is not as disruptive in communal workspaces. Both switches provide a unique auditory experience, with the Blue switch being more distinct and the Thunder Shadow switch being more subtle and versatile.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Blue clicky switch is revered for its tactile bump and audible click that provides a tactile and auditory typing experience. However, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch offers a different feel with a pronounced tactile bump and a 63.5g bottom-out weight that strikes a harmonious balance between force and feedback. The Thunder Shadow switch aims to provide a medium weight feel that is invigorating and immersive, making it suitable for extended typing sessions.
Overall, the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Blue switch is known for its loud click and tactile feedback, the Thunder Shadow switch provides a neutral sound profile and an invigorating typing sensation. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches deliver a satisfying typing experience that is sure to enhance your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, it is important to consider your preferences and typing style. If you enjoy the clicky sound and light actuation force of the Blue switch, it may be a good choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile bump with a medium-heavy bottom-out force and a neutral sound signature, the Thunder Shadow switch from Aflion may be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you are looking for.
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