SP-Star Duck vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Duck and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare and contrast are the SP-Star Duck and the Aflion Thunder Shadow, both tactile switches. The SP-Star Duck offers a more subtle tactile typing experience, with a gentle tactility that provides a clean and crispy sound profile. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow, from the up-and-coming brand Aflion, features a pronounced tactile bump and a medium weight feel with a 63.5g bottom-out. While both switches offer their unique characteristics, such as the Duck's 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Buttery', 'Polished' categorization and the Thunder Shadow's 'Invigorating', 'Neutral' profile, they cater to different preferences. If you prefer a softer touch and quieter typing experience, the Duck may be the way to go. However, if you appreciate a more pronounced tactile feedback and a slightly heavier feel, the Thunder Shadow could be the better fit. 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
58g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold plated
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Duck and the Aflion Thunder Shadow both utilize polycarbonate in the top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances resonance and clarity in sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, providing a visually appealing aesthetic. However, while the Duck employs polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing, the Thunder Shadow uses nylon for the bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to polycarbonate.
Having polycarbonate in the top housing of both the Duck and Thunder Shadow provides similar characteristics such as a clear and resonant sound profile, making them suitable for switches where sound quality is a priority. However, the difference in housing materials for the bottom housing sets them apart in terms of sound and feel. The Duck's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to the overall sound profile, while the Thunder Shadow's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound when typing. This split in housing materials highlights the importance of considering both the top and bottom housing when evaluating the overall performance of a switch.
Ultimately, the choice between the SP-Star Duck and the Aflion Thunder Shadow comes down to personal preference in sound and feel. The Duck's consistent use of polycarbonate in both the top and bottom housing creates a uniform sound profile that may appeal to those seeking clarity and resonance. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow's combination of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials offers a unique typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound. Whether you prioritize the impact of the bottom housing on bottom-out sound and feel, or the sound of letting go of a key influenced by the top housing, both switches provide distinct characteristics to cater to different preferences.
Weight
The SP-Star Duck tactile switch has a bottom out force of 58 grams, making it a medium-weight option. In comparison, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, putting it in the medium-heavy category. Both switches have an unknown actuation force, which means the force required to trigger a keystroke is not specified. This makes it difficult to directly compare the two in terms of actuation force. In terms of weight, the Duck is the lighter option, which may appeal to users looking for a more effortless typing experience for longer periods of time. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow is heavier, providing a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force levels.
Travel distance
The SP-Star Duck tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Duck being slightly longer than the Thunder Shadow. Gamers may prefer the Thunder Shadow for its slightly shorter travel distance, which can result in faster response times during gameplay. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Duck with its longer travel distance. Overall, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in typing or gaming experiences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Duck has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Duck for $5.40.
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 SP-Star Duck tactile switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch are described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that they offer a moderate level of sound that is suitable for a variety of settings and users, whether you are a beginner or an experienced typist. The sound produced by these switches will also be influenced by the keyboard they are mounted on and the keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch is noted for its mild and buttery typing experience, offering a gentle and smooth keystroke that is approachable to most users. The polished finish of the Duck switch provides a sleek and refined feel, reducing friction and ensuring smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch is described as invigorating, offering pronounced feedback and a snappy, reactive feel that creates an immersive typing sensation. The Thunder Shadow switch falls on the firmer end of the spectrum with its moderate actuation force.
Overall, if you are looking for a more subtle and gentle tactile typing experience with a clean and crispy sound profile, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch would be the ideal choice. However, if you prefer a more invigorating typing sensation with pronounced feedback and a medium weight feel, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch would be the better option. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring that you will get similar high-quality results with either choice.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a more subtle and gentle tactile typing experience with a medium bottom-out force, the SP-Star Duck switches would be an excellent choice. They offer a clean and crispy sound profile, perfect for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, if you are seeking a switch with a more pronounced tactile bump and a slightly heavier bottom-out force, then the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches would be ideal. With a harmonious balance and neutral sound signature, these switches provide an invigorating typing sensation for those who prefer a bit more feedback. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for typing feel and sound profile.
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