I think I prefer the YueXiao. It feels a bit clackier but smoother, whereas the Thunderclap feels softer but gives a bit more feedback when turning. Speed is about the same on both, depending on your setup, and pops don't happen. It's worth noting that the Thunderclap will corner twist every once in a great while, which should never happen on the YueXiao. The thing that really bothers me about the Thunderclap is that it sometimes feels really blocky inside when my turning gets messy, which, depending on your turning style, could result in catches, or the feeling that the cube is going to lock up. I find the minor catching on the YueXiao far less frustrating.