Aflion Thunder Shadow vs. Gazzew U4T
An in-depth look at the Aflion Thunder Shadow and the Gazzew U4T switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Thunder Shadow and the Gazzew U4T both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Thunder Shadow, from the up-and-coming brand Aflion, boasts a pronounced tactile bump and a medium weight feel of 63.5g, providing a balanced typing experience with a neutral sound signature. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T stands out for its harmonious combination of thockiness and sharp tactility, offering a bassy 'thock' sound profile and assertive tactile feedback with every keystroke. While the Thunder Shadow is described as 'Invigorating' and 'Neutral', the U4T is categorized as 'Bassy', 'Thocky', and 'Sharp'. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to your preference for tactile feel and auditory feedback; 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
63.5g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 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 17.5mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Thunder Shadow and Gazzew U4T both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Thunder Shadow utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. This is especially beneficial for RGB lighting as the translucency of polycarbonate allows for a more vibrant display. On the other hand, the U4T's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, often referred to as "boba plastic," provides a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. While both materials offer different sound characteristics, they both ultimately aim to enhance the overall typing experience.
In terms of their bottom housings, the Thunder Shadow uses a nylon material which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Similarly, the U4T's proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing also delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. This shows that both switches prioritize sound quality by utilizing materials that enhance the typing experience through their unique qualities.
Ultimately, the top and bottom housing materials play a crucial role in determining the sound profile of a switch. While the top housing affects the sound when a key is released, the bottom housing impacts the sound and feel when a key is pressed. Both the Aflion Thunder Shadow and Gazzew U4T highlight the importance of housing materials in creating a satisfying typing experience, with each switch offering a distinctive sound profile based on their chosen materials. Whether it be the stiff polycarbonate top housing of the Thunder Shadow or the soft "boba plastic" top housing of the U4T, both switches aim to provide users with a unique and enjoyable typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, it is evident that both switches have the same actuation force of None grams. However, the Thunder Shadow has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, whereas the U4T has a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it slightly heavier. This means that while both switches require the same amount of force to trigger a keystroke, the U4T provides a slightly more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force. In terms of weight preference, those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Thunder Shadow for longer typing sessions, while those who prefer a stronger push feel may opt for the U4T for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gazzew U4T tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Thunder Shadow has a shorter travel distance compared to the U4T. A shorter travel distance can provide a quicker response time, which may be favored by gamers. On the other hand, a longer travel distance can offer a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance and typing experience.
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 U4T 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 offers a neutral sound profile, suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T boasts a bassy 'thock' sound that provides a deep and rich auditory experience with its assertive tactile feedback. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience regardless of which one you choose.
Moving on to the feel, the Thunder Shadow provides an invigorating typing experience with its pronounced tactile bump and moderate weight feel. In contrast, the Gazzew U4T delivers a sharp tactile feedback that is intense and distinctive with every keystroke. Whether you prefer a snappy and reactive feel or a strong and crisp tactile bump, both switches offer unique sensations that enhance your typing experience.
In conclusion, the Aflion Thunder Shadow and Gazzew U4T switches each bring their own strengths to the table in terms of sound and feel. While the Thunder Shadow offers a neutral sound profile and an invigorating typing sensation, the U4T provides a bassy 'thock' sound and a sharp tactile feedback. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, you can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch, as they each excel in their own unique way. Ultimately, both switches offer top-notch quality and performance that will elevate your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch or the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, you should consider your preference for sound and feel. If you prefer a neutral sound profile and an invigorating typing experience with a moderate 63.5g bottom-out force, then the Thunder Shadow may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a bassy 'thock' sound and a sharp tactile feedback with a slightly higher 65g bottom-out force, then the U4T could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience you prefer, whether it be a neutral and balanced feel or a deeper, richer sound with a more intense tactile feedback.
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