Aflion Thunder Shadow vs. Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear
An in-depth look at the Aflion Thunder Shadow and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch, it all comes down to personal preference and typing style. The Thunder Shadow excels in providing a pronounced tactile bump while maintaining a medium weight feel, making it a perfect choice for those who enjoy a balance between feedback and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear linear switch offers a smooth and high-pitched typing experience with maximum RGB lighting customization, ideal for users who prioritize a buttery and polished keystroke. 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
53g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Spring
Double-staged stainless steel
Housing materials
The Aflion Thunder Shadow and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear both feature polycarbonate top housings, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. While both switches share this top housing material, they may differ in their bottom housing materials.
The Thunder Shadow utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the WS Aurora Clear features a UHWMPE bottom housing, a newer material that provides a bright sound signature and resonant clacks during typing. These different bottom housing materials can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of the switches when pressed.
Overall, the housing materials of the Aflion Thunder Shadow and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear play a crucial role in defining the sound profile and typing experience of each switch. While both switches share a polycarbonate top housing for a clear and crisp sound, they diverge in their choice of bottom housing material, with the Thunder Shadow opting for nylon and the WS Aurora Clear utilizing UHWMPE. These differences in bottom housing materials result in distinct sound signatures, making each switch unique in its sound and feel when activated.
Weight
The actuation force of the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch is unspecified, making it unclear how it compares to the 53 grams actuation force of the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch. However, both switches share a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, placing them in the medium-heavy category. In terms of weight, the WS Aurora Clear is lighter in terms of actuation force, potentially allowing for longer typing periods without fatigue. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow may offer a more substantial typing experience due to a potentially heavier actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for the typing experience desired.
Travel distance
The Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Thunder Shadow has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the WS Aurora Clear. The difference may not be significant, but it could potentially affect the feel and response of the switch when typing or gaming. The Thunder Shadow may offer a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear with a longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying and cushioned typing experience for those who prefer a deeper press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style, with each offering a unique feel based on their respective travel distances.
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 Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear comes in at $8.00 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
In terms of sound, the Aflion Thunder Shadow switch offers a neutral sound profile, suitable for various intents and purposes, whether for beginner or advanced users, and whether used at home or work. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear switch provides a high-pitched sound with a sharp and crisp tone when pressed, catering to those who prefer a more distinct and bright auditory experience. It is important to note that the overall sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Thunder Shadow switch provides an invigorating typing sensation with pronounced tactile feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. This creates an immersive experience for typists seeking a dynamic and engaging keypress. Meanwhile, the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear switch offers a buttery, smooth keystroke experience with a lightly lubed POM stem, ensuring minimal friction and effortless key travel. The WS Aurora Clear switch also falls into the mild and polished categories, providing a gentle and refined typing experience that appeals to a wide range of users.
In conclusion, both the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Thunder Shadow emphasizes a balanced tactile feedback with a neutral sound, whereas the WS Aurora Clear prioritizes a smooth keystroke experience with a high-pitched sound. Depending on the user's preferences for sound and feel, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience. Both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different typing styles, ensuring that users can find a switch that suits their specific preferences and needs.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when choosing between the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch, you should consider the following factors. If you prefer a switch with a pronounced tactile bump and medium weight feel, the Thunder Shadow would be the ideal choice for you. Its neutral sound signature and invigorating feedback make it a great option for those looking for a balanced typing experience. On the other hand, if you lean towards a smooth and high-pitched typing experience with maximum RGB lighting customization, the WS Aurora Clear linear switch is the way to go. Its buttery feel and polished finish ensure a seamless and satisfying keystroke. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for tactile feedback and sound profile, as well as the overall typing experience you desire. Consider these aspects carefully to choose the switch that best suits your needs.
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