Outemu Crystal Brown vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal Brown and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to comparing the Outemu Crystal Brown and the Aflion Thunder Shadow mechanical keyboard switches, two prominent tactile switches stand out. The Crystal Brown is categorized as a tactile switch best known for its unique None factor. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow, created by the up-and-coming Aflion brand, offers a pronounced tactile bump while maintaining a harmonious balance. With a medium weight feel and a neutral sound signature, these switches are categorized as 'Invigorating' and 'Neutral'. While these general descriptions provide a good starting point, diving deeper into the specifics of each switch will allow you to make the best decision for your typing preferences.
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
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Crystal Brown and the Aflion Thunder Shadow, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this top housing material, the Outemu Crystal Brown has a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the Thunder Shadow's polycarbonate bottom housing.
Despite the differences in bottom housing material, both the Outemu Crystal Brown and the Aflion Thunder Shadow showcase the impact of housing materials on the overall sound and feel of a switch. The bottom housing, whether nylon or polycarbonate, significantly affects the bottom-out sound and feel when pressed down. On the other hand, the top housing material plays a more prominent role in the sound produced when releasing a key. This highlights how the combination of different housing materials in a switch can influence the overall typing experience, with each material contributing unique qualities to the sound profile.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Crystal Brown and the Aflion Thunder Shadow both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, their choice of bottom housing material sets them apart in terms of sound profile. The Crystal Brown's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, while the Thunder Shadow's polycarbonate bottom housing results in a clearer and crisper sound. Understanding how each housing material impacts the typing experience can help individuals choose a switch that aligns with their preferences for sound and feel. Ultimately, the combination of materials in a switch housing determines the overall sound profile and tactile feedback, making it a crucial factor to consider when selecting a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, it is evident that they differ in weight. The Crystal 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 Thunder Shadow does not have a specified actuation force but has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, indicating it is medium-heavy. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods, the Crystal Brown would be the better choice. However, if a more substantial typing feel is desired, the Thunder Shadow would be the ideal option. Both switches offer a tactile feedback experience, but the weight difference between the two will ultimately determine which is better suited for individual preferences.
Travel distance
The Outemu Crystal 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. The Crystal Brown offers a slightly longer travel distance, making it a better choice for those who prefer a deeper key press experience. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow provides a shorter travel distance, which can appeal to gamers looking for faster response times. Both switches offer a tactile feel, but the choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of travel distance.
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 Crystal Brown 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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch is known for its sound signature, which unfortunately was not provided. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. However, it is essential to consider that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Outemu Crystal Brown's tactile feel was not specified. In contrast, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch is known for offering an invigorating typing experience. This means that it provides pronounced feedback, a moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel, which contributes to a satisfying typing sensation.
Overall, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch stands out for its balanced tactile bump and medium weight feel, as well as its neutral sound signature. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal Brown switch lacks specific details about its sound and feel qualities. If a user is seeking a tactile switch with a pronounced tactile bump and a harmonious balance, the Aflion Thunder Shadow could be a solid choice. However, without more detailed information on the Outemu Crystal Brown switch, it is difficult to provide a direct comparison. Ultimately, for those looking for a switch that offers a mix of feedback and a pleasant typing experience, the Aflion Thunder Shadow may be a suitable option.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, you should choose the Crystal Brown if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams. This switch is well-suited for those who prefer a medium-light feel with a more traditional typing experience. On the other hand, you should opt for the Thunder Shadow if you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom out force of 63.5 grams. This switch offers a more invigorating tactile feedback and a balanced overall feel, making it ideal for those who want a snappier and more reactive typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of actuation force and typing experience.
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