Outemu Tom vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the Outemu Tom and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Tom, a tactile switch, and the Aflion Thunder Shadow, also a tactile switch. The Tom is known for its unique characteristics, while the Thunder Shadow by Aflion stands out with its innovative design. The Tom offers a different typing experience due to its distinctive features, while the Thunder Shadow provides a medium-weight feel with a pronounced tactile bump. Both switches have their own advantages and are suitable for different preferences. 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
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
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 Outemu Tom and the Aflion Thunder Shadow both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which allows for a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. Despite their similarities in top housing material, the nylon bottom housings of the Tom and Thunder Shadow offer different qualities. The nylon bottom housing of the switches elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound.
In terms of sound production, the differences in housing material between the top and bottom housings of the Outemu Tom and Aflion Thunder Shadow play a significant role. While the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. The Tom's polycarbonate top housing produces a crisp and resonant sound, while the nylon bottom housing adds depth and fullness to the overall sound profile. Similarly, the Thunder Shadow's polycarbonate top housing contributes to a sharp and clear sound, complemented by the nylon bottom housing's ability to absorb sound and create a rounder tone.
Overall, the choice between the Outemu Tom and Aflion Thunder Shadow ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and feel. Both switches offer the benefit of polycarbonate top housings, providing a sharp and crisp sound ideal for RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housings of the switches offer a deeper and fuller sound, enhancing the overall typing experience. Whether one prefers a sharper sound with the Tom or a rounder tone with the Thunder Shadow, both switches provide a unique combination of housing materials to cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Tom tactile switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, it is evident that they offer different experiences in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Outemu Tom has a lighter actuation force of 55 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes compared to the Aflion Thunder Shadow, whose actuation force is unknown. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. The bottom out force of the Outemu Tom is not specified, so it is difficult to determine how it compares in terms of heaviness. Overall, the Outemu Tom may be more suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience, while the Aflion Thunder Shadow would be a better choice for those who prefer a heavier feel to their keystrokes.
Travel distance
The Outemu Tom tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Thunder Shadow has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Tom. Both switches fall within the range of typical travel distances for mechanical switches, with the Tom being on the shorter side and the Thunder Shadow being slightly longer. The choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference - if you prefer a shorter travel distance for quick and responsive key presses, the Tom may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more pronounced key press with a bit more depth, the Thunder Shadow may be the preferred choice. Ultimately, both switches offer a satisfying tactile experience, but the slight difference in travel distance may influence the overall feel of typing or gaming on these switches.
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 Tom 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 Tom switch does not have a specific reputation. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow switch is known for its neutral sound signature. This means that it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of uses, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, or if you plan to use the switch at home or work. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Tom switch does not have a defined characteristic. In contrast, the Aflion Thunder Shadow switch is known for its invigorating feel. This means that it offers pronounced feedback, a moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel, providing users with an immersive typing sensation.
Overall, while the Outemu Tom and Aflion Thunder Shadow switches may differ in sound and feel, they both aim to provide users with a tactile typing experience. If you prefer a switch with a more neutral sound profile and medium weight feel, the Thunder Shadow may be the better choice for you. However, if you are looking for a switch with a specific sound or feel, it is important to carefully consider your preferences and needs when choosing between these two options. Ultimately, both switches are designed to enhance the typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Tom tactile switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, you should choose the Outemu Tom if you value a lighter bottom-out force and are looking for a switch that is best known for []. On the other hand, opt for the Aflion Thunder Shadow if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom-out force and are interested in a switch known for Aflion's innovative design with a pronounced tactile bump and balanced weight feel. Additionally, if you appreciate a neutral sound profile and a switch that offers an invigorating typing experience with pronounced feedback, the Thunder Shadow would be the ideal choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and the overall typing experience you desire in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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