Outemu Green vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the Outemu Green and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Outemu Green, a clicky switch, and the Aflion Thunder Shadow, a tactile switch, both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Outemu Green switch is best known for its satisfying clicky feedback, making it a favorite among typists and gamers alike. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow, coming from the emerging brand Aflion, boasts a pronounced tactile bump that strikes a harmonious balance overall, providing a medium weight feel with a 63.5g bottom-out. While the Green switch offers a distinct auditory experience, the Thunder Shadow provides a more neutral sound signature, perfect for those seeking a quieter 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
65g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
80g
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
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 housing materials of the Outemu Green and the Aflion Thunder Shadow are quite similar, as they both feature polycarbonate top housings that create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches that plan to use RGB lighting, making it a popular choice for many mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While both switches have the same top housing material, it is the bottom housing that sets them apart.
In terms of the bottom housing material, the Outemu Green features a nylon bottom housing that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The Aflion Thunder Shadow also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile and feel. The bottom housing of a switch plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when keypressing, contributing to the overall user experience.
Overall, while the top housing materials of the Outemu Green and the Aflion Thunder Shadow are identical, their differing bottom housing materials offer a slight variation in sound and feel when typing. The split qualities between the top and bottom housing materials give each switch its unique characteristics. Both switches are designed to provide a satisfying typing experience, and the choice between the two may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and feel. Whether opting for the Green or the Thunder Shadow, users can expect a quality mechanical keyboard switch with distinct attributes based on their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Green clicky switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, it is evident that the Green switch has a heavier actuation force of 65 grams compared to the Thunder Shadow's unknown actuation force. However, the Thunder Shadow has a lighter bottom out force of 63.5 grams, while the Green switch requires 80 grams to bottom out. This means that typing on the Green switch will require a stronger initial push but a slightly lighter touch when fully pressing down compared to the Thunder Shadow. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Thunder Shadow, while individuals seeking a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Outemu Green switch. In both cases, users can expect a satisfying typing experience based on their preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the Outemu Green clicky switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Thunder Shadow may appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times, while the longer travel distance of the Green clicky switch may offer a more satisfying and tactile typing experience for those who prefer more depth in their keystrokes. Both switches offer unique typing experiences, with the shorter travel distance of the Thunder Shadow providing a more immediate feedback compared to the slightly deeper travel distance of the Green clicky switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and typing style.
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 Green 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 Green clicky switch is best known for its loud and satisfying click with each key press. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch offers a more neutral sound profile, making it versatile for various typing environments. The sound produced by either switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard housing and keycap material.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Green switch is popular for its tactile bump and audible click, providing a tactile and auditory typing experience. In contrast, the Aflion Thunder Shadow switch is characterized by a pronounced tactile bump and a medium weight feel due to its 63.5g bottom-out force. This combination offers a satisfying typing sensation that is both immersive and comfortably invigorating.
Overall, while the Outemu Green clicky switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch offer different sound and feel qualities, both switches excel in providing a satisfying typing experience. Whether you prefer the loud click of the Green switch or the balanced feel of the Thunder Shadow switch, both options cater to different preferences and typing styles. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel during typing sessions.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a heavier bottom out force and a clicky sound profile, the Outemu Green switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, a tactile bump, and a neutral sound profile, the Aflion Thunder Shadow switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and what type of typing experience you are looking for. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and needs. So, whether you are a beginner or an experienced typist, there is a switch out there for you.
Mentioned in this article
