Durock Light Tactile vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the Durock Light Tactile and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at two popular mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Light Tactile and the Aflion Thunder Shadow stand out for their unique qualities. The Light Tactile from Durock is praised for its gentle tactility, offering a softer feel compared to other tactile switches on the market. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow from Aflion features a more pronounced tactile bump while maintaining a balanced weight and neutral sound signature. Both switches have their own strengths - the Light Tactile for its angelic tactility and polished feel, and the Thunder Shadow for its invigorating tactile bump and medium weight. 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
52g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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
Gold-plated spring
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Durock Light Tactile and the Aflion Thunder Shadow feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiff nature. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. This means that both switches will have a similar sound profile and aesthetic appeal when it comes to the top housing material. However, the distinction lies in the nylon bottom housing of each switch. The Light Tactile's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Thunder Shadow's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound.
Despite both switches having a polycarbonate top housing for similar sound profiles, the use of nylon in the bottom housing sets them apart in terms of sound characteristics. The Light Tactile's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, which can enhance the overall typing experience for some users. Conversely, the Thunder Shadow's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound profile. This distinction in bottom housing material can significantly impact the typing feel and sound of each switch, offering users different options based on their preferences.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the housing materials of the Durock Light Tactile and the Aflion Thunder Shadow offers a unique typing experience for users. While both switches share similar characteristics in their polycarbonate top housing, the difference in their nylon bottom housing creates distinct sound profiles. Whether one prefers a sharper and crisper sound or a deeper and fuller sound, the choice between these switches ultimately comes down to personal preference and how different housing materials influence the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Light Tactile switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switch, there are clear differences to consider. The Light Tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 52 grams compared to the Thunder Shadow's unknown actuation force. However, both switches have a medium-heavy bottom out force, with the Light Tactile requiring 67 grams and the Thunder Shadow needing 63.5 grams. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may be drawn to the Light Tactile switch for its lower actuation force, making it ideal for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow switch may appeal to those who prefer a slightly heavier push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Durock Light Tactile switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switch, we can see that the Light Tactile has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Thunder Shadow has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Light Tactile has a longer travel distance, providing a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which can be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. Both switches offer a different feel due to their varied travel distances, with the Light Tactile providing a deeper key press sensation compared to the Thunder Shadow. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Light Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Tactile for $4.25.
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.
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
When it comes to sound, both the Durock Light Tactile and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches are described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that they offer a moderate sound level that is suitable for various environments and users, whether at home or in a professional setting. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the Durock Light Tactile switch is characterized as mild and polished. This indicates that it provides a gentle typing experience with a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek and comfortable typing sensation. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow switch is described as invigorating, offering pronounced feedback and a snappy, reactive feel that creates an immersive typing experience with a medium weight feel.
Overall, both the Durock Light Tactile and Aflion Thunder Shadow switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in typing experience. The Light Tactile switch provides a gentle and polished feel with a jelly-like sound signature, while the Thunder Shadow switch offers a pronounced tactile bump and a harmonious balance with an invigorating typing experience. Depending on your preference for tactility and sound, you can expect similar results in terms of overall performance and satisfaction with either of these switches.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Durock Light Tactile and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a gentle and angelic tactility with a jelly-like sound signature, the Light Tactile may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a pronounced tactile bump, medium weight feel, and a neutral sound signature, the Thunder Shadow could be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you want to achieve. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style.
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