KTT Darling vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Darling and Aflion Thunder Shadow are two distinct mechanical keyboard switches that cater to different preferences. The Darling, a linear switch, offers a typing experience that is described as chewy and substantial, with a bouncy and springy responsiveness to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow, a tactile switch, boasts a pronounced tactile bump and a harmonious balance that provides a medium weight feel. While the Darling is known for its clacky, high-pitched sound, the Thunder Shadow offers a neutral sound signature. If you prefer a switch that is bouncy, clacky, and resonant, the Darling may be the choice for you. However, if you seek a switch that is invigorating and neutral, the Thunder Shadow may be more appealing. 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the KTT Darling and the Aflion Thunder Shadow utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. This material is ideal for those who enjoy a clear and resonant sound while typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it perfect for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the overall design. With both keyboards featuring polycarbonate top housings, users can expect a similar auditory experience when typing on either.
While both keyboards share the same polycarbonate top housing material, they differ in their bottom housing material. The Darling utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound when compared to the polycarbonate top housing. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow also features a nylon bottom housing, delivering a similar tactile experience that emphasizes a deeper and fuller sound while typing. Despite this difference, both keyboards offer a unique typing experience that caters to those who appreciate the nuances of sound and feel.
The split between the top and bottom housing materials in each switch design allows for a nuanced typing experience. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, impacting the overall typing experience when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key, contributing to the overall auditory profile of the switch. By combining different housing materials, such as polycarbonate and nylon, both the KTT Darling and the Aflion Thunder Shadow offer a balanced typing experience that reflects a blend of sharpness, depth, and clarity.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Darling linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, it is evident that the Darling is lighter in both regards. The Darling has an actuation force of 45 grams, which is medium-light, while the Thunder Shadow's actuation force is unknown. Additionally, the Darling has a bottom out force of 53 grams, also medium-light, whereas the Thunder Shadow's bottom out force is 63.5 grams, making it medium-heavy. The actuation force of the Darling allows for a lighter touch when typing, ideal for longer periods of use, while the Thunder Shadow provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force. Overall, choosing between the two switches depends on personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Darling linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch have the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either switch, you will experience a consistent key travel of 3.5 mm. This similarity ensures that users will get a similar tactile feedback and overall typing experience with both switches. Whether you choose the Darling or the Thunder Shadow, you can expect a smooth and satisfying key press with a travel distance that is neither too short nor too long.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Darling has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Darling for $3.90.
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
In terms of sound, the KTT Darling linear switch is known for its high-pitched and resonant qualities, creating a clacky and engaging typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile, suitable for various settings and preferences. While the Darling delivers a more pronounced and sharp auditory feedback, the Thunder Shadow maintains a balanced and consistent sound signature.
Moving on to the feel, the KTT Darling switch is characterized by its bouncy and springy nature, offering a tactile sensation that is lively and responsive. In contrast, the Aflion Thunder Shadow switch provides an invigorating tactile bump with a moderate weight feel, ensuring a satisfying and immersive typing experience. Both switches excel in delivering distinct tactile feedback, catering to different preferences in typing feel.
In conclusion, the KTT Darling linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Darling provides a chewy and substantial typing sensation with a high-pitched sound, while the Thunder Shadow offers a balanced feel with a neutral sound profile. Whether you prefer a more lively and bouncy typing experience or a moderate and invigorating feel, both switches cater to a diverse range of preferences in mechanical keyboard switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel, ensuring a customized typing experience to suit individual preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Darling linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, consider the bottom out force and the typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a lighter key press with a chewy and bouncy typing sensation, along with a high-pitched and resonant sound, the Darling may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy key press with a pronounced tactile bump, a neutral sound profile, and an invigorating typing experience, then the Thunder Shadow could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style to ensure a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
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