Outemu Milk Tea vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the Outemu Milk Tea and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between two mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Milk Tea and the Aflion Thunder Shadow, both tactile switches offer unique characteristics to cater to different preferences. The Milk Tea is best known for its smooth and tactile bump, providing a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow, crafted by the up-and-coming brand Aflion, boasts a pronounced tactile bump and a medium weight feel at 63.5g bottom-out. While the Milk Tea offers a classic tactile switch experience, the Thunder Shadow stands out with its innovative design and neutral sound signature. 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
N/A
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
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Milk Tea and the Aflion Thunder Shadow, both switches feature nylon bottom housings, which are known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to their softer plastic composition. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon housings. However, the Milk Tea's top housing is made of Ly, a newer material that provides a bright sound signature with resonant clacks, while the Thunder Shadow utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the Thunder Shadow's top housing is especially beneficial for switches designed for RGB lighting due to its translucency.
Despite both switches featuring nylon bottom housings that create similar sound profiles, the distinguishing factor lies in their top housing materials. The Milk Tea's Ly top housing produces a bright and resonant sound signature, while the Thunder Shadow's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and more pronounced sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound, making it ideal for switches where the sound of key presses is crucial. In contrast, the softer nylon bottom housing of both switches absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing.
The difference in top housing materials between the Outemu Milk Tea and Aflion Thunder Shadow impacts the overall sound and feel of the switches. While the bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing a key, the top housing plays a significant role in the sound when releasing a key. The use of Ly in the Milk Tea and polycarbonate in the Thunder Shadow highlights the importance of housing materials in determining the sound signature of mechanical switches. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on individual preferences for sound profiles, with the Milk Tea offering a brighter sound and the Thunder Shadow providing a sharper and crisper sound experience.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, it is evident that they have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Milk Tea has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, while the Thunder Shadow's actuation force is unspecified. In terms of bottom out force, the Thunder Shadow is heavier at 63.5 grams compared to the Milk Tea, which does not have a specified bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Milk Tea for its lower actuation force, while individuals seeking a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Thunder Shadow with its heavier bottom out force. Both switches offer unique typing experiences, with the Milk Tea providing a lighter touch and the Thunder Shadow delivering a more robust keystroke sensation. Ultimately, selecting between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for weight and typing feel.
Travel distance
The Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Milk Tea has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Thunder Shadow. The Milk Tea's 4.0mm travel distance is more traditional, offering a deep feel when pressing down on the key. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow's 3.5mm travel distance is slightly shallower, making it a preferred choice for those looking for a faster response time, especially gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and feel. While the Milk Tea provides a deeper press, the Thunder Shadow offers a quicker response.
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 Milk Tea 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 Milk Tea switch does not have a specific reputation, while the Aflion Thunder Shadow switch is known for its neutral sound profile. This means that the Thunder Shadow will have a moderate sound level that is suitable for various typing environments. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Outemu Milk Tea switch has no specific characteristics mentioned, whereas the Aflion Thunder Shadow switch is described as invigorating. This indicates that the Thunder Shadow switch offers a tactile bump that is pronounced and provides a moderate to firm actuation force, resulting in a snappy and reactive typing experience. Typists who enjoy a more tactile and immersive sensation while typing may prefer the Thunder Shadow switch.
In conclusion, the Outemu Milk Tea and Aflion Thunder Shadow switches offer different qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Milk Tea switch does not have defined characteristics in these aspects, the Thunder Shadow switch stands out for its neutral sound profile and invigorating tactile feedback. Both switches have their own unique features that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them will ultimately depend on the typing experience you are looking for. If you are seeking a balance between tactile feedback and sound, the Thunder Shadow switch may be the ideal choice for you.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, it is important to consider your preferences and typing style. If you prefer a switch with no specific bottom out force and are looking for a unique option, the Milk Tea may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a medium-heavy bottom out force and are seeking a switch with a pronounced tactile bump and balanced overall feel, the Thunder Shadow is a great option to consider. Ultimately, both switches offer different experiences, so it is essential to weigh your priorities when deciding between the two. Happy typing!
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