Dareu Sky POM vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the Dareu Sky POM and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Sky POM and Aflion Thunder Shadow stand out as popular choices with distinctive features. The Dareu Sky POM, a linear switch, is acclaimed for its premium quality at an accessible price point, offering a clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and a gentle actuation force. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow, a tactile switch, boasts a pronounced tactile bump, medium weight feel, and a neutral sound signature that exemplifies Aflion's dedication to innovation. Each switch offers a unique typing experience, with the Sky POM being characterized as 'Buttery', 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', 'Silky', and the Thunder Shadow as 'Invigorating' and 'Neutral'. 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
40g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
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
The Dareu Sky POM and the Aflion Thunder Shadow both feature unique combinations of housing materials that result in distinct sound profiles. The Sky POM utilizes a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound compared to the Thunder Shadow's polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper and crisper sound. However, both switches feature a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deep and full sound profile. It is interesting to note that even though the top and bottom housings differ between the two switches, the qualities of each housing material contribute to the overall typing experience.
In terms of aesthetics, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Thunder Shadow allows for translucency, making it ideal for RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the POM top housing of the Sky POM may not offer the same visual appeal but provides a unique sound profile. Both switches feature nylon bottom housings, which absorb more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This similarity in bottom housing material highlights the importance of the combination of top and bottom housings in determining the overall typing experience of a switch.
When considering the impact of the housing materials on the typing experience, it is important to note that the bottom housing has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. The differences in material between the top and bottom housings of the Dareu Sky POM and the Aflion Thunder Shadow showcase how variations in housing materials can result in unique sound profiles and typing sensations. Despite these differences, both switches offer a quality typing experience that is a result of the combinations of housing materials used.
Weight
The Dareu Sky POM linear switch is lighter in terms of actuation force compared to the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch. The Sky POM requires 40 grams of force to actuate a keystroke, while the Thunder Shadow's actuation force is unknown. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Thunder Shadow is heavier with a force of 63.5 grams compared to the Sky POM's unknown bottom out force. In terms of weight preference, those who prefer lighter actuation forces may lean towards the Sky POM for longer typing or gaming sessions, while those who prefer a stronger push may opt for the Thunder Shadow for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, users can expect different typing experiences based on the actuation and bottom out forces of each switch.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Dareu Sky POM linear switch is 3.8 mm, while the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both of these distances fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are preferred by many users for faster response times, particularly gamers. However, if you prefer a switch with a slightly longer travel distance for a more deliberate feel, you may lean towards the Sky POM with its 3.8 mm travel distance. On the other hand, if you prefer the shortest travel distance possible, the Thunder Shadow with its 3.5 mm travel distance may be more to your liking. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of how much travel distance you feel comfortable with.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Sky POM has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sky POM for $4.98.
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, the Dareu Sky POM switch provides a low-pitched, clacky tone that is distinctive and can be satisfying to many users. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow switch produces a neutral sound that is versatile and suitable for a wide range of applications. Depending on personal preference, both switches offer unique sound profiles that can enhance the overall typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Sky POM switch is praised for its buttery, creamy, and silky keystroke experience, providing a smooth and effortless typing sensation. In contrast, the Aflion Thunder Shadow switch offers an invigorating feel with pronounced tactile feedback and a moderate to firm actuation force, creating a snappy and reactive typing experience. Both switches cater to different preferences in typing feel, with the Sky POM focusing on smoothness and uniformity while the Thunder Shadow emphasizes tactile feedback and responsiveness.
Overall, the Dareu Sky POM and Aflion Thunder Shadow switches offer unique characteristics in sound and feel that appeal to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Whether you prioritize a low-pitched clacky sound with buttery smooth keystrokes or a neutral sound with invigorating tactile feedback, both switches provide quality performance in their own right. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on the individual's typing style and preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Sky POM linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, consider the qualities that align with your preferences and typing style. If you value a clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and a gentle actuation force, the Sky POM may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a pronounced tactile bump, medium weight feel, and a neutral sound signature, the Thunder Shadow could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what characteristics you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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