Akko Penguin vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the Akko Penguin and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko Penguin and Aflion Thunder Shadow mechanical keyboard switches, both offer tactile feedback for a satisfying typing experience. The Penguin is praised for its silent tactile switches, making it ideal for office environments where noise reduction is crucial. Its rounded tactile bump and medium weight strike a balance between responsiveness and comfort, perfect for long typing sessions without inducing fatigue. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow by Aflion boasts a pronounced tactile bump and a 63.5g bottom-out weight, offering a slightly different typing experience that is invigorating yet neutral in sound. While both switches excel in providing tactile feedback, the Penguin focuses on a polished and muted profile, while the Thunder Shadow emphasizes a more invigorating experience. 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
43g
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
3.30 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
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
The Akko Penguin and Aflion Thunder Shadow both utilize different housing materials for their switches, with the Penguin featuring a nylon top housing and the Thunder Shadow opting for a polycarbonate top housing. The nylon top housing of the Penguin creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing of the Thunder Shadow produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile as a result of its stiffer plastic composition. While both materials offer unique sound profiles, the choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preference for sound characteristics.
On the other hand, both the Penguin and Thunder Shadow have nylon bottom housings, highlighting the classic switch housing material. This commonality between the two switches allows for typing that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer plastic of nylon in the bottom housing absorbs more sound than harder plastics, contributing to a duller and rounder sound experience for users. Despite having different top housing materials, the shared nylon bottom housing ensures a consistent typing experience in terms of sound profile and overall feel.
Overall, the choice between the Akko Penguin and Aflion Thunder Shadow comes down to the preference for specific sound characteristics and typing experience. While the Penguin offers a deeper and fuller sound profile with its nylon top and bottom housings, the Thunder Shadow provides a sharper and crisper sound profile with its polycarbonate top housing. Whether you prefer a duller and rounder sound or a more clear and resonant sound, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches hinges on individual taste in typing sound and feel, making either a suitable choice depending on personal preference.
Weight
In comparing the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, we can see that the Penguin has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Thunder Shadow, which has an unknown actuation force. Both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the Penguin at 60 grams and the Thunder Shadow at 63.5 grams. The difference in actuation force may result in a slightly lighter typing experience for the Penguin switch, while the Thunder Shadow switch may provide a slightly more substantial and tactile feel when bottoming out. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces, with the Penguin offering a lighter option and the Thunder Shadow providing a slightly heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Akko Penguin tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for gamers who prioritize faster response times. The Penguin offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which may appeal to those seeking quick and sharp keystrokes. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow provides a tad more depth in its travel, offering a slightly more deliberate press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing experience. However, both switches offer a shorter travel distance compared to traditional switches, catering to the needs of users who prefer quicker key responses.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko Penguin has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Penguin for $3.10.
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.
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, the Akko Penguin tactile switch offers a muted and neutral sound profile, making it a great choice for office environments where minimizing noise is important. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch also provides a neutral sound signature, suitable for a variety of settings. Both switches offer a balanced sound profile that caters to a wide range of users, ensuring a pleasant typing experience without being disruptive to others.
When it comes to feel, the Akko Penguin switch is described as polished, mild, feathery, and subtle, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with light actuation force. In comparison, the Aflion Thunder Shadow switch is described as invigorating, providing pronounced feedback with a moderate to firm actuation force for a more immersive typing sensation. While the two switches offer slightly different tactile feels, they both strike a balance between comfort and responsiveness, catering to different preferences.
Overall, the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch both excel in their own ways when it comes to sound and feel. Whether you prefer a quieter and smoother typing experience with the Penguin or a more invigorating and responsive feel with the Thunder Shadow, both switches offer quality performance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific typing environment. However, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch, showcasing the innovative designs and dedication to quality from both Akko and Aflion.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, consider your priorities and preferences. If you value a quieter typing experience and are seeking a switch suitable for office environments, the Akko Penguin with its muted sound and polished, mild feel may be the ideal option for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a more pronounced tactile bump and a slightly heavier bottom-out force, the Aflion Thunder Shadow with its neutral sound and invigorating feel might be the better choice, especially if you enjoy a more reactive typing sensation. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different needs, so it comes down to personal preference and the specific environment in which you'll be using the keyboard.
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