Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and the Aflion Thunder Shadow are both tactile mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique qualities for enthusiasts to consider. The POM T1 is praised for its maximum tactility, providing a sharp and satisfying clean clack when typing. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow by Aflion offers a pronounced tactile bump and a medium weight feel with a 63.5g bottom-out, while maintaining a neutral sound signature. Both switches boast qualities such as invigorating tactility and neutrality, but the POM T1 stands out for its resonant and sharp characteristics, whereas the Thunder Shadow focuses on striking a harmonious balance. 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
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
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
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Proprietary
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and the Aflion Thunder Shadow both offer unique housing materials that impact the sound profile of the switches. The POM top housing of the POM T1 creates a deeper and relatively more muted sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Thunder Shadow produces a sharper and crisper sound. This difference in sound profile is influenced by the stiffness of the plastics used, with polycarbonate being stiffer and therefore creating a clearer and more resonant sound. However, both switches offer a unique and pleasing sound profile based on their top housing material, with the POM T1 providing a more subdued tone compared to the Thunder Shadow's more distinct sound.
In terms of bottom housing, the POM T1 utilizes a POM material that also contributes to the deeper and more muted sound profile of the switch. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Thunder Shadow results in a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This difference highlights how the choice of bottom housing material can significantly impact the overall sound profile of a switch. While the POM T1 and the Thunder Shadow offer contrasting bottom housing materials, they both contribute to creating a unique typing experience with their specific sound profiles.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in a switch can have a significant impact on the sound and feel of typing. The combination of different housing materials in the top and bottom of a switch, as seen in the POM T1 and the Thunder Shadow, allows for a split in qualities that affect both the bottom-out sound and feel as well as the sound when releasing a key. While the POM T1 and the Thunder Shadow offer varying sound profiles based on their housing materials, they both provide a unique typing experience that is tailored to the preferences of the user. Whether opting for a deeper, more muted sound with POM or a sharper, crisper sound with polycarbonate, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience with their distinct housing materials.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, it is evident that both switches have a medium-heavy bottom out force. However, the POM T1 has an actuation force of None grams, while the Thunder Shadow's actuation force is also listed as None grams. This means that both switches will result in a similar typing experience in terms of actuation force. When it comes to weight, some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the POM T1 for extended typing sessions or gaming, while others may favor the slightly heavier bottom out force of the Thunder Shadow for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, we can see that the Thunder Shadow has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the POM T1's 4 mm travel distance. The POM T1 offers a slightly longer key travel, which may provide a more satisfying depth and tactile feedback for some users. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow's shorter travel distance may be preferred by gamers seeking quicker response times. Both switches offer different experiences in terms of key travel distance, catering to individual preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether the user values a longer or shorter travel distance for their typing or gaming needs.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the POM T1 (Sunflower) for $5.57.
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
When it comes to sound, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) is known for its resonant and sharp profile, offering a higher-pitched and clean auditory experience with each keypress. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow provides a neutral sound signature that complements its overall balanced feel, making it suitable for various scenarios. Both switches have a neutral sound profile, but the POM T1 may be slightly more resonant in comparison.
In terms of feel, the POM T1 (Sunflower) is described as sharp, accented, and snappy, providing a high feedback intensity, distinct tactile bump, and a lively typing experience. Similarly, the Aflion Thunder Shadow is characterized as invigorating, offering pronounced feedback and a snappy, reactive feel for an immersive typing sensation. Both switches aim to provide a tactile typing experience, with the POM T1 potentially leaning more towards a sharper and more accentuated tactile bump.
Overall, while both the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and the Aflion Thunder Shadow offer pronounced tactile feedback and a balanced typing experience, the POM T1 may excel in providing a sharper tactility and a resonant sound profile. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, either switch can deliver a satisfying typing experience for newcomers entering the mechanical keyboard world. Ultimately, trying out both switches in person may be the best way to determine which one aligns more with individual preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if maximum tactility is what you are after, then the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch would be the ideal choice for you. With a sharp tactility and clean clack, these switches provide a punchy typing experience. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch that strikes a harmonious balance between tactile bump and overall feel, then the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch is the way to go. With a pronounced tactile bump and medium weight feel, these switches offer a neutral sound signature that complements their tactile feedback. Ultimately, your decision between the POM T1 (Sunflower) and the Thunder Shadow will depend on whether you prioritize maximum tactility or a balanced tactile experience.
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