Aflion Thunder Shadow vs. Outemu Yellow Silver
An in-depth look at the Aflion Thunder Shadow and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the Aflion Thunder Shadow and the Outemu Yellow Silver. The Thunder Shadow by Aflion offers a tactile experience with a pronounced bump for a satisfying typing feel. It strikes a balance with a 63.5g bottom-out weight and a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of users. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver switch is a linear option known for its light actuation force and neutral sound, ideal for gamers and typists seeking speediness and responsiveness. While both switches offer unique advantages, such as the Thunder Shadow's tactile feedback and the Yellow Silver's quick actuation, let's delve deeper to help you make the best choice for your specific preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Thunder Shadow and the Outemu Yellow Silver have some similarities and differences. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. This allows for a more clear and resonant sound, especially when using RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow has a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Yellow Silver's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a rounder and duller sound.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Thunder Shadow and the Yellow Silver, they both excel in providing unique typing experiences. The nylon bottom housing of the Thunder Shadow contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, enhancing the overall feel of the switch. In comparison, the polycarbonate top housing of both switches creates a sharp and crisp sound when typing, adding clarity and resonance. While the Thunder Shadow emphasizes a deeper sound with its nylon bottom housing, the Yellow Silver focuses on a sharper sound profile with its polycarbonate top housing.
Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Thunder Shadow and the Outemu Yellow Silver will come down to personal preference in typing experience. The different housing materials of these switches, whether it be polycarbonate or nylon, play a crucial role in shaping the sound and feel of each key press. Whether you prefer a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile with the polycarbonate top housing of the Yellow Silver, or a deeper, fuller sound with the nylon bottom housing of the Thunder Shadow, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, we can see a noticeable difference in weight between the two. The Thunder Shadow has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch, while the Yellow Silver only requires 55 grams to bottom out, categorizing it as medium-light. The actuation force of the Thunder Shadow is not specified, while the Yellow Silver has an actuation force of 45 grams. In terms of weight, the Yellow Silver is lighter and the Thunder Shadow is heavier. Those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions may lean towards the Yellow Silver, while those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may find the Thunder Shadow more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends 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, which is shorter than the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Thunder Shadow offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for fast and precise inputs. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver switch provides a bit more depth and feedback with its longer travel distance, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on keys. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences 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 Outemu Yellow Silver comes in at $3.40 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
The Thunder Shadow tactile switch from Aflion is known for its invigorating feel, providing a pronounced tactile bump and a medium weight feel of 63.5g. This results in a satisfying typing experience with a snappy and reactive feel, making it suitable for those who enjoy a tactile response while typing. In contrast, the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch offers a light actuation force, ideal for gamers and typists seeking quick responsiveness but without the tactile feedback of a tactile switch. The sound profile of both switches is described as neutral, making them versatile options for various environments and preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will come down to personal preference for tactile feedback and actuation force. If you prefer a tactile feel, the Thunder Shadow would be the better choice, while the Yellow Silver is more suitable for those who prefer a linear switch without the tactile bump. Remember that the overall sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a tactile typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light linear switch with a medium-light bottom out force, the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch may better suit your needs. Consider your typing preferences and prioritize either tactile feedback or smooth linear actuation when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer their own unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles and preferences.
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