Aflion Thunder Shadow vs. Wuque Studio WS Red
An in-depth look at the Aflion Thunder Shadow and the Wuque Studio WS Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Thunder Shadow and the Wuque Studio WS Red offer unique experiences for different preferences. The Thunder Shadow from Aflion boasts a tactile feeling with a pronounced bump, providing a satisfying medium weight feel with a neutral sound signature. On the other hand, the WS Red from Wuque Studio features a linear switch with a bouncy and responsive typing experience, thanks to a 22mm double-stage spring and heavier actuation force. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal, offering a choice between tactile feedback and a smooth 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Thunder Shadow and the Wuque Studio WS Red, it is evident that both switches use nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature which absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. Although both switches use nylon for their bottom housing, the impact of this material will be felt more when bottoming out keys, contributing to the overall typing experience.
On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow features a polycarbonate top housing, while the WS Red utilizes a nylon top housing. Polycarbonate is described as creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. In contrast, nylon top housings create a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound with their softer nature. The choice of top housing material plays a significant role in the sound produced when a key is released, showcasing the differences in sound profiles between the two switches.
While the Aflion Thunder Shadow and the Wuque Studio WS Red have different top housing materials, they both offer unique sound profiles based on the characteristics of their respective materials. The Thunder Shadow's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, while the WS Red's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound. Despite these differences, both switches aim to enhance the overall typing experience by utilizing materials that impact the sound produced when keys are pressed and released. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, it is evident that both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Thunder Shadow requiring 63.5 grams and the WS Red needing 67 grams. However, the actuation force of the Thunder Shadow is unspecified, while the WS Red also lacks this information. Despite this, it can be assumed that the actuation forces may be similar to their bottom out forces. In terms of weight, the Thunder Shadow could be considered lighter due to the slightly lower bottom out force, while the WS Red could be seen as heavier. The actuation force is crucial for determining the force required to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force indicates the pressure needed to fully press the switch. Ultimately, those seeking a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Thunder Shadow, while individuals desiring a more substantial feel may prefer the WS Red. It is essential to consider personal preferences and typing habits when choosing between these two switches.
Travel distance
The Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the WS Red linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Thunder Shadow. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are increasingly popular for their faster response times, especially among gamers. However, the difference of 0.3 mm between the two switches may not be significant for most users in terms of feel or performance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for the specific travel distance and tactile feel desired.
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 Red comes in at $3.50 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
Overall, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch offers a balanced and medium weight feel with a pronounced tactile bump, making it ideal for those looking for a satisfying typing experience. Its neutral sound signature complements this balance, showcasing Aflion's commitment to innovation. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch provides a bouncy and responsive typing experience with a heavier actuation force, delivering a substantial feel with a classic sound signature due to its material blend. While the Thunder Shadow offers an invigorating typing sensation, the WS Red gives a satisfying weight to each keystroke. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences, with the Thunder Shadow focusing on tactile feedback and balance, while the WS Red emphasizes responsiveness and weight in typing. Depending on your personal preferences, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, consider your preference for bottom-out force. If you prefer a slightly lighter bottom-out force, the Thunder Shadow with 63.5 grams may be more suitable for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a heavier bottom-out force, the WS Red with 67 grams could be the better choice. Additionally, think about your typing style and whether you prefer a pronounced tactile bump (Thunder Shadow) or a smooth linear feel (WS Red). Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them ultimately depends on your personal typing preferences and needs.
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