Aflion Thunder Shadow vs. Wuque Studio WS Onion
An in-depth look at the Aflion Thunder Shadow and the Wuque Studio WS Onion switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Thunder Shadow, a tactile switch, to the Wuque Studio WS Onion, a linear switch, we find two distinct options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Thunder Shadow, from Aflion, is renowned for its pronounced tactile bump and medium weight feel, providing a satisfying typing experience with a neutral sound signature. On the other hand, the WS Onion by Wuque Studio boasts a buttery smooth keystroke feel and a crisp, responsive touch, all within a polished design. Both switches offer a neutral sound profile, but the Thunder Shadow leans towards invigorating while the WS Onion offers a luxurious, satisfying feel. 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
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Spring
WS CL635 Gold Plated Stainless Spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Thunder Shadow and Wuque Studio WS Onion both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the keyboards. However, despite both switches having the same material for their top housings, the Thunder Shadow's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Onion's nylon bottom housing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound for the Thunder Shadow.
While the polycarbonate top housings of the Thunder Shadow and WS Onion create similar sound profiles, the difference lies in their nylon bottom housings. The Thunder Shadow's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. On the other hand, the WS Onion's nylon bottom housing also provides a similar experience, creating a duller and rounder sound due to its softer nature. It's interesting to see how the choice of material for the bottom housing can greatly influence the overall typing experience and sound quality of a mechanical keyboard.
Overall, the use of different housing materials in the Aflion Thunder Shadow and Wuque Studio WS Onion keyboards results in distinct sound profiles and typing experiences. While both keyboards feature polycarbonate top housings that enhance the sharpness and clarity of the sound, the nylon bottom housings provide contrasting characteristics. The Thunder Shadow's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, while the Onion's nylon bottom housing creates a duller and rounder sound. Whether you prefer a more resonant sound or a softer tone, the choice of housing materials plays a significant role in shaping the overall typing experience on these mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch both have a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making them both medium-heavy switches in terms of the force required to fully press down the keys. Both switches have an actuation force of None grams, indicating that the force needed to trigger a keystroke is unknown for both switches. In terms of weight, some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Thunder Shadow for longer typing or gaming sessions, while others may prefer the heavier bottom out force of the WS Onion for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
The Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Thunder Shadow has a slightly shallower key press compared to the WS Onion. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Thunder Shadow due to its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the WS Onion. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key press depth.
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 Onion has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Onion for $5.53.
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, both the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch offer a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for a variety of uses, whether at home or in a professional setting. The sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, so users can expect a consistent sound experience with either switch.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Thunder Shadow switch provides an invigorating typing sensation with its pronounced tactile bump, moderate weight, and snappy feedback. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Onion switch offers a buttery smooth keystroke feel that is deeply satisfying and polished, thanks to its materials and factory lubing. Both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, with the Thunder Shadow offering a more tactile feedback compared to the smooth and fluid feel of the WS Onion.
In conclusion, both the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch offer unique and exceptional qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Thunder Shadow excels in providing a tactile and invigorating typing experience, the WS Onion stands out for its smooth and polished keystroke feel. Whether you prefer a pronounced tactile bump or a buttery smooth keystroke, both switches deliver on performance and quality, ensuring a satisfying typing experience regardless of your choice.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch or the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you value a pronounced tactile bump and a harmonious balance in weight, the Thunder Shadow may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a buttery smooth keystroke feel and a crisp, responsive typing experience, the WS Onion may be more suited to your taste. Both switches offer a medium-heavy bottom-out force of 63.5 grams, but the Thunder Shadow provides an invigorating feel while the WS Onion offers a buttery and polished sensation. Ultimately, the decision lies in your personal typing preferences and the kind of typing experience you seek. Consider these factors carefully to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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