Gateron Smoothie Silver vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the Gateron Smoothie Silver and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the Gateron Smoothie Silver and the Aflion Thunder Shadow. The Smoothie Silver is a linear switch known for its lightning-fast actuation and thocky sound, offering unparalleled smoothness and a feather-light touch. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow from Aflion is a tactile switch that features a pronounced tactile bump and a harmonious balance overall, providing a medium weight feel with a 63.5g bottom-out. While the Smoothie Silver may appeal to those looking for speed and smoothness, the Thunder Shadow is ideal for individuals seeking a tactile typing experience with a neutral sound signature. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Smoothie Silver and the Aflion Thunder Shadow, one can see a clear distinction in the sound profiles they produce. The Smoothie Silver's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the Thunder Shadow's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. The difference lies in the stiffness of the plastic used, with POM being softer and polycarbonate being stiffer. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for better RGB lighting effects, making it a popular choice for those looking to customize their keyboard aesthetics.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the Smoothie Silver's POM bottom housing continues to deliver a deep and muted sound profile, similar to its top housing. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softness and ability to absorb more sound. This results in a rounder and duller sound compared to the sharper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing. The choice between POM and nylon for the bottom housing can greatly impact the overall typing experience and sound quality of the keyboard.
Overall, while the housing materials of the Gateron Smoothie Silver and the Aflion Thunder Shadow differ in their properties and resulting sound profiles, both switches aim to provide a unique typing experience. Whether you prefer a more muted and deep sound profile from POM or a sharper and crisper sound from polycarbonate, each housing material brings its own advantages. Additionally, the use of different materials for the top and bottom housing allows for a split in the qualities each material brings, influencing both the bottom-out sound and the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference and desired typing experience.
Weight
The Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Thunder Shadow requires a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, while the bottom out force for the Smoothie Silver is unknown. In terms of weight, the Smoothie Silver would be preferred by those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow would be more suitable for users who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer different levels of force for actuation and bottom out, providing users with options to match their preferences for typing or gaming.
Travel distance
The Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 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 individuals who value quick response times. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Smoothie Silver for faster reactions during gameplay. However, those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the Thunder Shadow with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Smoothie Silver has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie Silver for $2.60.
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 Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch is known for its thocky sound, providing a satisfying auditory experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch offers a neutral sound signature, making it suitable for various environments and preferences. It is essential to consider that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard case and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Smoothie Silver switch is praised for its unparalleled smoothness and feather-light touch, offering a seamless typing experience. Conversely, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch provides an invigorating feel with a pronounced tactile bump, creating a snappy and reactive typing sensation. This tactile feedback enhances the overall typing experience and can be especially appealing to users who enjoy a more tactile keystroke.
In conclusion, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Smoothie Silver provides a thocky sound and feather-light touch, the Thunder Shadow offers a neutral sound profile and invigorating tactile feedback. Choosing between these switches ultimately depends on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. However, both switches are designed to deliver a high-quality typing experience, ensuring that regardless of choice, users can expect satisfactory results.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, consider your typing preferences and needs. If you prioritize lightning-fast actuation with a feather-light touch and thocky sound, the Smoothie Silvers would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-weight feel with a pronounced tactile bump and a harmonious balance, the Thunder Shadows from Aflion would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to whether you prioritize speed and smoothness or tactile feedback and balance in your mechanical keyboard switches. Choose wisely based on your preferences and typing style.
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