Aflion Thunder Shadow vs. Gazzew U4
An in-depth look at the Aflion Thunder Shadow and the Gazzew U4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Thunder Shadow and the Gazzew U4 mechanical keyboard switches, it's clear that both offer a unique tactile typing experience. The Thunder Shadow from Aflion features a pronounced tactile bump and a medium weight feel with a 63.5g bottom-out, making it invigorating and neutral. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 offers a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump with a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation, providing a muted, low-pitched, and sharp sound profile. Both switches offer a tactile typing experience, but the Thunder Shadow leans towards a balance of tactile feedback, while the U4 excels in providing a quiet and subtle typing 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
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel 14mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Thunder Shadow utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the Gazzew U4 features a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, which produces a deep and rich sound profile due to its softness. While both materials aim to enhance sound quality, the polycarbonate top housing of the Thunder Shadow is more likely preferred for those looking for a clear and resonant sound, especially when paired with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4's top housing provides a softer and warmer sound experience, appealing to those who prioritize depth in their typing experience.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Thunder Shadow incorporates a nylon bottom housing, offering a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softness. Similarly, the Gazzew U4 uses a proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing, also known as "boba plastic," to deliver a rich and deep sound profile. Both materials focus on creating a rounder sound that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. The nylon bottom housing of the Thunder Shadow and the Gazzew blend bottom housing of the U4 aim to enhance the overall sound experience, catering to individuals who appreciate a more muffled and immersive typing sound.
Overall, while the Aflion Thunder Shadow and the Gazzew U4 differ in their housing materials, they both aim to enhance the sound profile of the switches they are used in. The use of polycarbonate in the Thunder Shadow's top housing provides a clear and resonant sound, while the Gazzew blend top housing in the U4 offers a rich and deep sound. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the Thunder Shadow and the Gazzew blend bottom housing of the U4 focus on creating a fuller and rounder sound. Both switches prioritize sound quality, providing users with a unique typing experience based on their preferences for sound characteristics.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Thunder Shadow and Gazzew U4 tactile switches differ in several aspects. The Thunder Shadow has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which is considered medium-heavy, while its actuation force is unspecified. In comparison, the Gazzew U4 has a lower actuation force of 45 grams and a slightly lighter bottom out force of 62 grams, which is also medium. The difference in actuation force between the two switches means that the Gazzew U4 will require less force to register a keystroke compared to the Thunder Shadow, potentially providing a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, both switches have a similar bottom out force, offering a consistent typing feel in terms of resistance when pressing the keys all the way down. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether a lighter or heavier force is preferred for typing or gaming purposes.
Travel distance
The Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gazzew U4 tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular for their faster response times, particularly favored by gamers. The subtle difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be noticeable to most users, and they will likely provide similar results in terms of typing or gaming experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference regarding the feel of the key press - whether you prefer a slightly shorter travel distance with the Thunder Shadow or a slightly longer one with the U4.
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 Gazzew U4 comes in at $6.50 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 Aflion Thunder Shadow features a neutral profile, making it suitable for various settings and preferences. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 offers a muted and low-pitched sound, providing a quieter typing experience with a deeper tone. Both switches offer different auditory experiences, so your preference would depend on whether you prefer a more neutral sound or a quieter, bass-heavy sound when typing.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Thunder Shadow provides an invigorating typing experience with a pronounced tactile bump and a medium weight feel. This switch offers a snappy and reactive sensation, enhancing the overall typing experience. Conversely, the Gazzew U4 offers a sharp tactile bump, providing a strong and crisp feedback intensity with each keypress. The felt-like bottom-out sensation of the U4 adds a unique tactile element to the typing experience. If you enjoy a more invigorating and immersive typing feel, the Thunder Shadow may be the preferred choice, while the sharp tactile bump of the U4 caters to those seeking a distinct and prominent tactile feedback.
In conclusion, the Aflion Thunder Shadow and the Gazzew U4 switches offer different subjective qualities in sound and feel, catering to varying preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Thunder Shadow provides a balanced and invigorating typing experience with a neutral sound profile. On the other hand, the U4 offers a quiet and low-pitched sound with a sharp tactile feedback sensation. Ultimately, choosing between these switches would depend on whether you prioritize a balanced tactile experience with a neutral sound or a quieter, sharp tactile feedback with a deeper tone. Experimenting with both switches on different keyboard setups and keycaps can also further customize the overall typing experience to suit your preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when making a decision between the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, you should consider a few key factors. If you value a medium-heavy bottom-out force and a neutral sound profile with a harmonious balance, then the Thunder Shadow may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter bottom-out force and a muted, low-pitched sound profile with a sharp and distinctive tactile bump, then the Gazzew U4 could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and the specific characteristics that matter most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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