Outemu Peach vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the Outemu Peach and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Peach and Aflion Thunder Shadow stand out as excellent choices for different preferences. The Peach is a linear switch that is lightweight and silenced, making it ideal for those who enjoy a gentle typing experience. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow is a tactile switch with a pronounced bump and medium weight feel, perfect for users who appreciate a more tactile response. While the Peach is praised for its subtlety and polished feel, the Thunder Shadow is known for its invigorating tactile feedback. 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
40g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
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 Peach and the Aflion Thunder Shadow, we see a stark difference in the materials used for both the top and bottom housings. The Peach features a nylon top housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile. While the Peach's nylon bottom housing also contributes to its deep and round sound profile, the Thunder Shadow's nylon bottom housing aligns closely with the Peach's bottom housing characteristics.
Despite the differences in housing materials, both the Outemu Peach and the Aflion Thunder Shadow offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The Peach's nylon top housing absorbs more sound and creates a duller sound profile, ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. In contrast, the Thunder Shadow's polycarbonate top housing boasts a more clear and resonant sound profile, making it a suitable choice for those who appreciate a sharper and crisper typing sound. While their bottom housings are both made of nylon and share similar sound characteristics, the top housing plays a significant role in determining the overall sound profile of each switch.
Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Peach and the Aflion Thunder Shadow will come down to personal preference in terms of sound aesthetics. The Peach's nylon housing provides a softer and fuller sound, while the Thunder Shadow's polycarbonate housing offers a sharper and crisper sound. Both switches showcase the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall typing experience, with each material contributing distinct qualities to the sound profile. Whether you prefer a deeper, fuller sound or a sharper, clearer sound, both switches offer unique options for customizing your typing experience.
Weight
The Outemu Peach linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. In terms of bottom out force, the Peach requires 50 grams to fully press down while the Thunder Shadow needs 63.5 grams. The Peach is lighter overall, making it ideal for those who prefer a gentler typing experience for extended periods of time. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow offers a more substantial typing feel with its heavier bottom out force, appealing to those who enjoy a stronger push sensation while typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Peach linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch both offer similar travel distances, with the Peach at 3.3 mm and the Thunder Shadow at 3.5 mm. While both fall within the range of shorter travel distances compared to the more traditional 4.0 mm, the Thunder Shadow is slightly longer than the Peach. Gamers may appreciate the shorter 3.3 mm travel distance of the Peach for its faster response times, whereas those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the 3.5 mm travel distance of the Thunder Shadow. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference for depth and responsiveness.
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 Peach comes in at $3.40 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, both the Outemu Peach and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for a variety of settings. The Peach is muted, offering a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches, while the Thunder Shadow maintains a neutral sound signature. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Peach provides a mild and subtle typing experience, with a polished finish for a smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow offers an invigorating tactile feedback with a moderate to firm actuation force, creating a snappy and reactive typing sensation. Both switches cater to different preferences in tactile feedback, with the Peach offering a gentler typing experience and the Thunder Shadow providing a more immersive feel.
Overall, the Outemu Peach linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch offer unique characteristics in sound and feel that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer a feather-light typing experience with a muted sound like the Peach or an invigorating tactile feedback with a balanced overall feel like the Thunder Shadow, both switches provide quality options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on your individual typing style and preference for sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Peach linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a feather-light, silenced switch with a subtle and polished feel, the Peach would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-weight switch with a pronounced tactile bump and invigorating typing sensation, the Thunder Shadow would suit your preference better. Both switches offer a neutral sound profile, making them versatile for various settings. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference in typing experience and feel.
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