Outemu Dustproof Red vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Red and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Dustproof Red and the Aflion Thunder Shadow offer unique features for different preferences. The Dustproof Red is a linear switch, known for its smooth keystrokes and consistent feel. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow by Aflion is a tactile switch that provides a pronounced tactile bump with a medium weight feel. While the Dustproof Red is best for users who prefer a linear switch with a focus on simplicity, the Thunder Shadow caters to those who enjoy a tactile typing experience with a balanced feel. 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
60g
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
The Outemu Dustproof Red and the Aflion Thunder Shadow both feature polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing also allows for translucency, making it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this feature, they may differ in their overall sound and feel due to other housing materials used.
In terms of their bottom housing, both switches utilize nylon, a classic switch housing material that creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature helps absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Despite having the same material for the bottom housing, the Dustproof Red and the Thunder Shadow may still offer slight variations in typing feel and sound due to other design elements.
Although the Dustproof Red and Thunder Shadow may have similarities in their housing materials, the split between the top and bottom housings can impact the overall sound and feel of the switches differently. The bottom housing's characteristics mainly influence the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing plays a greater role in the sound produced when releasing a key. This split in housing materials allows for a unique typing experience with each switch, offering users a variety of options based on their preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, it is evident that the Dustproof Red requires a lighter touch to actuate at 45 grams compared to the Thunder Shadow's unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Thunder Shadow requires a heavier force at 63.5 grams compared to the Dustproof Red's 60 grams. This means that while the Dustproof Red may offer a smoother typing experience with a lighter actuation force, the Thunder Shadow provides a more substantial feel with a heavier bottom out force. Both switches fall under the medium to medium-heavy force range, making them suitable for users who prefer a moderate to slightly heavier typing experience. Ultimately, users seeking a lighter touch may prefer the Dustproof Red, while those who prefer a more robust feel may lean towards the Thunder Shadow for their keyboard needs.
Travel distance
The Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Dustproof Red has a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a bit more depth and tactility compared to the Thunder Shadow. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Thunder Shadow, as it allows for quicker actuation. However, those who prefer a more robust and deliberate keystroke may opt for the Dustproof Red with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, both switches offer different benefits based on individual preferences, with the Dustproof Red being the longer option and the Thunder Shadow being the shorter option.
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 Dustproof Red 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 Dustproof Red linear switch is known for being relatively quiet due to its lack of tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. This means it strikes a balance between being audible enough to provide feedback without being overly loud. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Dustproof Red is known for its smooth linear travel without any tactile bump, making it a consistent and predictable typing experience. In contrast, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch offers a more invigorating typing sensation with a pronounced tactile bump. This gives the user a satisfying feedback with each keypress, creating a more dynamic typing experience overall.
In conclusion, if you prefer a quieter and more linear typing experience, the Outemu Dustproof Red switch would be a suitable choice. However, if you enjoy a tactile bump for enhanced feedback and a more interactive typing feel, the Aflion Thunder Shadow switch would be a great option. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking to achieve.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and consistent typing experience with a medium bottom out force, the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a slightly higher bottom out force that offers a pronounced tactile bump and an invigorating typing feel, then the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch is the way to go. Consider your typing preferences and needs when choosing between these two switches, as they cater to different typing experiences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique features that can enhance your overall typing experience.
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