Outemu Ocean vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the Outemu Ocean and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Ocean and Aflion Thunder Shadow both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Outemu Ocean is a tactile switch with a distinct reputation in the market, while the Aflion Thunder Shadow, a tactile switch from the emerging brand Aflion, boasts a pronounced tactile bump and a medium weight feel with a 63.5g bottom-out. The Ocean is best known for its undefined feature, whereas the Thunder Shadow is recognized for Aflion's commitment to innovation and a neutral sound signature. This stark difference in design and performance gives users a choice between a more traditional switch with the Ocean and a modern, finely-tuned option with the Thunder Shadow. 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
55g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Outemu Ocean and the Aflion Thunder Shadow utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. This results in a more clear and resonant sound when typing on these switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the use of RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of these switches. The similarities in the material used for the top housing of these switches means that users can expect similar sound and feel when typing on either the Ocean or the Thunder Shadow.
On the other hand, the bottom housing of the Ocean features nylon, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile with a duller and rounder tone compared to polycarbonate. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, impacting the overall sound and feel of typing on the Ocean switches. Similarly, the Thunder Shadow also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile that is characteristic of switches using nylon. This consistency in housing materials for the bottom of both switches ensures a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the Outemu Ocean and the Aflion Thunder Shadow lie in the top housing, which features polycarbonate for both switches, and the bottom housing, which utilizes nylon. While both switches offer a sharp, higher-pitched sound profile with polycarbonate top housings, the nylon bottom housings provide a deeper and fuller sound experience. These contrasting materials in the bottom housing contribute to the overall sound profile and feel of typing on each switch, offering users a choice between a crisper or a fuller sound depending on their preference.
Weight
The Outemu Ocean tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Thunder Shadow is the heavier option with a force of 63.5 grams, while the Ocean's bottom out force is not specified. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Ocean switch, as the lower actuation force allows for longer typing sessions with less fatigue. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow switch may appeal to individuals who enjoy a more substantial push feel while typing. Both switches offer unique benefits depending on personal preference, with the Ocean providing a lighter touch and the Thunder Shadow offering a heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Outemu Ocean tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Thunder Shadow has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Ocean. Choosing between the two depends on personal preference and what you prioritize in a switch. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Thunder Shadow with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Ocean with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, both switches offer a different typing experience, but choosing either will provide satisfactory results depending on individual needs.
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 Ocean 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 Ocean tactile switch does not have a specific descriptor provided, leaving it up to personal experience to determine its sound profile. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch is known for its neutral sound signature. This means that the Thunder Shadow switch has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of uses whether you are a beginner or advanced user. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps you use.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Outemu Ocean tactile switch also lacks a specific descriptor for its feel. In contrast, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch is described as invigorating. This means that the Thunder Shadow switch offers pronounced feedback, a moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy, reactive feel that creates an immersive typing sensation. If you enjoy switches that provide a stimulating typing experience, the Thunder Shadow may be the better choice for you.
Overall, while the subjective qualities of the Outemu Ocean and Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switches differ in terms of sound and feel, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. If you prefer a switch with a neutral sound profile and a balanced feel, the Thunder Shadow may be the better option. However, if you are looking for a switch that offers a specific type of sound or feel, you may find the Ocean switch more suitable. Ultimately, trying out both switches firsthand will provide you with the best insight into which one aligns with your typing preferences.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when it comes to choosing between the Outemu Ocean tactile switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, it ultimately depends on your preferences and typing style. If you prefer a switch with a lighter bottom out force and are looking for a different typing experience, the Ocean switch may be the way to go. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom out force and want a balance of tactile feedback and smoothness, the Thunder Shadow switch from Aflion may be more to your liking. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider what feels best for you as you make your decision.
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