Dareu Sky V3 vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the Dareu Sky V3 and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch stand out for their unique qualities. The Dareu Sky V3 is esteemed for its neutral sound signature and medium-light weight, making it a popular choice for enthusiasts and professionals seeking comfort and precision in their typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow offers a pronounced tactile bump and medium weight feel, providing a balance of tactile feedback and smooth keystrokes. While the Sky V3 is categorized as neutral, subdued, mild, the Thunder Shadow falls under invigorating, neutral. Depending on your typing preferences and requirements, each switch offers distinct advantages. However, let's delve 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
4.00 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
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
The Sky V3 and Thunder Shadow both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for creating a pleasant typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the incorporation of RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetics of the switches. In terms of sound quality, both switches offer similar results due to their shared polycarbonate top housing material.
On the other hand, the Sky V3 features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Thunder Shadow's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound when typing. This difference in bottom housing material can significantly impact the typing experience, as the bottom-out sound and feel will be influenced by the properties of the bottom housing material. Despite this distinction, both switches maintain high-quality construction and offer a satisfying typing experience.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Sky V3 and Thunder Shadow leads to distinct typing experiences. While both switches share the benefits of polycarbonate top housing, the variation in bottom housing material results in a noticeable difference in sound profiles. Whether you prefer the sharper sound of the Sky V3's polycarbonate top housing or the fuller sound of the Thunder Shadow's nylon bottom housing, both switches offer excellent quality and performance for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Dareu Sky V3 linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Aflion Thunder Shadow has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, while the bottom out force of the Dareu Sky V3 is unavailable. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Sky V3 for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those who prefer a more substantial feel may opt for the Thunder Shadow with its heavier bottom out force. Overall, both switches offer unique benefits depending on the user's preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, it is clear that the Sky V3 has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Thunder Shadow's 3.5 mm. The longer travel distance of the Sky V3 may provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for those who prefer a deeper key press, while the shorter travel distance of the Thunder Shadow may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, catering to individual preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on whether you prioritize a longer, more pronounced key press or a quicker, more responsive feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Sky V3 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 V3 for $4.76.
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 Dareu Sky V3 linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch are described as having a neutral sound signature, which means they produce a moderate sound profile that is suitable for various typing environments. The Sky V3 offers a more subdued sound, creating a quiet typing experience, while the Thunder Shadow maintains a harmonious balance between sound and tactile feedback. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors like the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch is known for its mild typing experience, providing a gentle feel that is approachable to most users. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch offers an invigorating typing sensation with pronounced feedback, a moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy, reactive feel. Each switch caters to different preferences in terms of typing experience, offering users the opportunity to choose based on their personal preferences.
In conclusion, both the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Sky V3 provides a neutral sound signature and a mild typing experience, while the Thunder Shadow offers a balanced sound profile and an invigorating typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing feedback. Depending on your preferences, you can achieve a similar typing experience with either switch, ensuring a satisfying typing experience regardless of your choice.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when considering whether to choose the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch or the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, it's important to take into account your typing preferences and needs. If you prefer a neutral sound signature and a medium-light weight switch that offers comfort and precision, the Sky V3 is a great choice. However, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a pronounced bump and medium weight feel, along with a harmonious balance and neutral sound signature, then the Thunder Shadow might be more suited to your typing style. Ultimately, both switches have their unique strengths, so consider what aspects are most important to you when making your decision.
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