HMX Swift vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the HMX Swift and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Swift and the Aflion Thunder Shadow stand out as popular options with distinct features. The HMX Swift is a linear switch known for its deep sound profile and silky smoothness, making it a favorite for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. With a delicate 42g actuation force, the Swift is easy to press and provides a feathery and creamy typing feel. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow is a tactile switch that offers a pronounced tactile bump while maintaining a balanced medium weight feel with a 63.5g bottom-out. Its neutral sound signature adds to the overall typing experience, making it a reliable choice for those seeking a mix of tactile feedback and smoothness. 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
42g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
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
22mm extended spring
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX Swift utilizes a nylon top and bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Aflion Thunder Shadow features a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. The difference in housing materials between the two switches leads to distinct sound characteristics, with the Swift offering a more rounded sound profile compared to the Thunder Shadow's clear and resonant sound.
While both the HMX Swift and Aflion Thunder Shadow share a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, they diverge in their top housing materials. The Swift's nylon top housing continues to enhance the duller and rounder sound profile, while the Thunder Shadow's polycarbonate top housing provides a more clear and resonant sound. This contrast in top housing materials ultimately affects the overall sound experience of each switch, showcasing the impact that housing materials can have on the typing and auditory experience.
The difference in top housing materials between the HMX Swift and Aflion Thunder Shadow underscores the importance of housing material in determining sound profiles. While both switches offer unique sound characteristics due to their respective housing materials, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate in the top housing can significantly impact the typing experience. Whether looking for a deeper and fuller sound with a nylon top housing like the Swift or a sharper and crisper sound with a polycarbonate top housing like the Thunder Shadow, understanding the role of housing materials can help users make informed decisions based on their preferences for sound and typing feel.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Swift linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch differ significantly. The Swift has a light actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience. In contrast, the Thunder Shadow has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 63.5 grams, but the actuation force is unknown. The Swift is lighter in terms of force required, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming, whereas the Thunder Shadow offers a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push. Both switches offer unique typing experiences, with the Swift being lighter and the Thunder Shadow being heavier in terms of force requirements.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Swift linear switch is 3.9 mm, while the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Swift has a slightly longer travel distance, providing a bit more depth when pressing down on the key compared to the Thunder Shadow. Both switches offer a shorter travel distance than the traditional 4.0 mm, making them ideal for those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. However, individuals who prefer a more pronounced key press may find the longer travel distance of the Swift to be more satisfying. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Swift has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Swift for $2.99.
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 HMX Swift linear switch offers a deeper, silkier sound profile compared to the neutral sound of the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch. The Swift's full nylon housings contribute to a unique clacky sound that is both sharp and snappy, while the Thunder Shadow's more subdued sound signature complements its balanced tactile bump and medium weight feel. Both switches offer distinct auditory experiences that cater to different preferences, with the Swift providing a brighter, crisper sound and the Thunder Shadow delivering a neutral, moderate profile.
In terms of feel, the HMX Swift switch is lauded for its easy-to-press nature, offering a feathery and bouncy sensation that enhances the typing experience. The low actuation force of 42g makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended use. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow switch provides an invigorating feel with pronounced feedback and a moderate to firm actuation force of 63.5g, creating a snappy and reactive typing sensation. The Thunder Shadow's tactile bump adds an extra layer of responsiveness that some users may find satisfying.
Overall, the HMX Swift linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch offer contrasting experiences in terms of sound and feel. While the Swift provides a deeper sound profile and a smoother, easy-to-press feel, the Thunder Shadow delivers a more balanced sound signature and an invigorating typing sensation. Depending on personal preference and typing style, users may gravitate towards either switch for its unique qualities. Ultimately, both switches offer reliable performance and can enhance the typing experience depending on the user's individual preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the HMX Swift linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, consider the factors that align with your preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter actuation force and a deeper sound profile, the HMX Swift may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom-out force with a balanced tactile bump and a neutral sound signature, the Aflion Thunder Shadow could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so selecting the one that best suits your needs will enhance your overall typing experience.
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