Aflion Thunder Shadow vs. Wuque Studio WS Jade
An in-depth look at the Aflion Thunder Shadow and the Wuque Studio WS Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch, two distinct options emerge for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Thunder Shadows from Aflion offer a pronounced tactile bump with a medium weight feel, providing a balanced typing experience with a neutral sound signature. On the other hand, the WS Jades from Wuque Studio stand out for their metallic insert in the stem base, creating a bright and resonant sound profile, along with a light diffuser for an enchanting RGB display. While the Thunder Shadows are invigorating and neutral, the WS Jades are characterized as clacky, marbly, resonant, silky, and creamy. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision on which switch suits your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
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
UPE
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Spring
18mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Thunder Shadow and the Wuque Studio WS Jade, it is clear that they each offer unique characteristics. The Thunder Shadow features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the WS Jade's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. Both materials offer aesthetically pleasing qualities, with the translucent nature of polycarbonate being ideal for RGB lighting, while POM provides a unique look and sound.
When it comes to the bottom housings, the Thunder Shadow utilizes nylon, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. On the other hand, the WS Jade also uses POM for its bottom housing, resulting in a similar deep and muted sound profile. The differences in materials between the top and bottom housings of each switch allow for a unique typing experience, with the qualities of each material affecting the sound and feel of pressing down and letting go of a key.
Overall, while the Thunder Shadow and WS Jade have different housing materials, they ultimately provide similar results in terms of sound profile. The use of polycarbonate and POM both offer unique characteristics that contribute to the overall typing experience. Whether one prefers a sharper, crisper sound profile or a deeper and more muted one, both switches offer high-quality materials that showcase the versatility and innovation in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch, it is evident that they both have different characteristics. The Thunder Shadow has no specified actuation force, making it easier to trigger a keystroke, while its bottom out force of 63.5 grams provides a medium-heavy typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Jade has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it lighter in comparison. Those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming may lean towards the WS Jade switch, whereas individuals seeking a more substantial typing feel may find the Thunder Shadow switch more appealing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the WS Jade has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Thunder Shadow. When comparing the two, the difference of 0.1 mm may not be very noticeable to most users. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are favored by those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of how much travel distance feels comfortable and provides the desired level of tactile feedback.
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 Jade comes in at $4.30 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 offers a neutral sound profile, suitable for various intents and purposes, providing a harmonious typing experience without being too loud or distracting. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Jade produces a clacky, marbly, and resonant sound, giving a sharp, bright, and percussive sound when pressed, creating a more immersive auditory experience. Depending on personal preference, users may prefer the neutral sound of the Thunder Shadow or the distinctive clacky and resonant sound of the WS Jade.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Thunder Shadow provides an invigorating typing experience with pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a reactive feel, enhancing the overall typing sensation. Meanwhile, the Wuque Studio WS Jade offers a silky and creamy typing experience, ensuring a smooth and buttery feel with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Whether users prefer a more tactile and firm feel like the Thunder Shadow or a smoother and effortless feel like the WS Jade, both switches deliver a satisfying typing experience tailored to individual preferences.
In conclusion, the Aflion Thunder Shadow and the Wuque Studio WS Jade switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. While the Thunder Shadow provides a neutral sound and invigorating feel, the WS Jade offers a clacky and resonant sound with a silky and creamy typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference in sound profile, typing feel, and overall tactile feedback desired by the user. Both switches are designed to enhance the typing experience, providing users with a range of options to customize their mechanical keyboards to suit their individual preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch or the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch, it all boils down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy tactile switch with a neutral sound profile and an invigorating feel, the Thunder Shadow may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium linear switch with a clacky, marbly, and resonant sound profile, along with a silky and creamy typing experience, the WS Jade could be the perfect fit for your typing needs. Ultimately, both switches offer unique features and benefits, so make sure to consider what matters most to you when selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch for your setup.
Mentioned in this article
