Outemu Silent Green vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Green and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Silent Green, a linear switch, to the Aflion Thunder Shadow, a tactile switch, there are distinct differences that set them apart. The silent green is known for its smooth linear actuation, ideal for fast typists and gamers seeking a consistent keystroke. Conversely, the thunder shadow by Aflion offers a tactile bump that provides feedback with each key press, appealing to those who prefer a more tactile typing experience. While the silent green is categorized as linear, the thunder shadow is categorized as tactile. Each switch has its unique qualities that cater to different preferences and needs. However, let's delve 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
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
pom
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Silent Green and the Aflion Thunder Shadow both use polycarbonate for the top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which creates a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. However, the Silent Green's polycarbonate bottom housing provides a similar sound profile to its top housing, while the Thunder Shadow's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound.
In terms of feel, the nylon bottom housing of the Thunder Shadow may provide a different typing experience compared to the Silent Green's polycarbonate bottom housing. The softer nature of nylon may result in a smoother and quieter typing experience, emphasizing a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharpness of polycarbonate. This difference in bottom housing material could be a factor to consider for individuals who prefer a softer, more cushioned typing feel.
Overall, the choice between the Outemu Silent Green and the Aflion Thunder Shadow will depend on individual preferences for sound and typing feel. While both switches share the same polycarbonate top housing for a sharper sound profile, the distinction in bottom housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience. Whether one prefers the crispness of polycarbonate or the softer, fuller sound of nylon, these differences can ultimately influence the overall satisfaction and performance of a mechanical keyboard.
Weight
The actuation and bottom out forces of the Outemu Silent Green linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch differ in their weight requirements. The Silent Green has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Thunder Shadow has an unknown actuation force and a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Silent Green, allowing for longer typing sessions without as much strain. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow provides a more substantial typing feel with its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for typing feel and weight requirements.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Silent Green linear switch is 4 mm, while the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In terms of comparison, the Silent Green offers a slightly longer travel distance, providing a deeper key press feel compared to the Thunder Shadow. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow offers a shorter travel distance, making it more responsive and preferred by gamers for faster actions. Both switches provide a different typing experience based on their travel distance, with the Silent Green delivering a more traditional depth and the Thunder Shadow offering a shallower feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a longer or shorter travel distance.
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 Silent 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 Silent Green linear switch is best known for its quiet operation, making it a popular choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch is praised for its neutral sound profile, striking a balance between being audible without being overly loud. Both switches offer a pleasant typing sound, with the Thunder Shadow leaning towards a more versatile sound profile due to its neutrality.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Silent Green switch is known for its smooth linear action, providing a consistent keystroke without any tactile feedback. In contrast, the Aflion Thunder Shadow switch offers a more invigorating typing experience, thanks to its pronounced tactile bump and moderate to firm actuation force. This tactile feedback enhances the typing sensation, making it ideal for those who enjoy a responsive and engaging typing experience.
Overall, both the Outemu Silent Green linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences. If you prefer a quiet typing experience with smooth keystrokes, the Silent Green switch would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch that provides a more tactile and engaging typing feel, the Thunder Shadow switch would be a suitable option. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would depend on your personal typing preferences and the type of typing experience you are looking for.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Silent Green linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a medium bottom-out force of 60 grams and a silent typing experience, the Silent Green may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom-out force of 63.5 grams, a pronounced tactile bump, and a neutral sound signature, the Thunder Shadow could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences in terms of typing feel, sound profile, and the overall typing experience you are looking for.
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