KTT Glimp vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the KTT Glimp and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Glimp, a linear switch, to the Aflion Thunder Shadow, a tactile switch, both offer unique features that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches. The Glimp switch is renowned for its medium-light feel, providing a satisfying tactile feedback and comfortable actuation force for a responsive typing experience. With a fairly clacky sound profile, the Glimp switch adds an enjoyable auditory element to typing sessions. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow presents a pronounced tactile bump and a harmonious balance with a 63.5g bottom-out weight, offering a medium weight feel. The Thunder Shadow switch also boasts a neutral sound signature, emphasizing Aflion's commitment to innovative design. While the Glimp switch leans towards a creamier and mild typing experience, the Thunder Shadow aims to invigorate with its tactile bump. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best choice for your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Glimp and the Aflion Thunder Shadow are quite similar in terms of their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate in the top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which results in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect a similar sound profile and aesthetic experience from both the Glimp and the Thunder Shadow due to their shared use of polycarbonate in the top housing.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the KTT Glimp and the Aflion Thunder Shadow diverge slightly. The Glimp features a nylon bottom housing, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. Conversely, the Thunder Shadow also incorporates a nylon bottom housing for a similar effect of creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. Despite the slight differences in construction, both switches offer a unique typing experience with their nylon bottom housings, showcasing the versatility of this classic switch housing material.
Overall, the qualities of the housing materials in the KTT Glimp and the Aflion Thunder Shadow are divided between the top and bottom housings, impacting the sound profile and feel of each switch differently. While the top housing influences the sound upon key release, the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing. Therefore, users can expect a nuanced typing experience with distinct characteristics from each switch, ultimately catering to individual preferences for sound and feel in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch differ in weight, with the Glimp being lighter and the Thunder Shadow being heavier. The Glimp has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a medium-light switch. In comparison, the Thunder Shadow's actuation force is unknown, but it has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, categorizing it as a medium-heavy switch. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Glimp may be the better option due to its lower actuation and bottom out forces. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may gravitate towards the Thunder Shadow for its heavier forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Glimp linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Thunder Shadow has a shorter travel distance compared to the Glimp. The Glimp's 4 mm travel distance is more traditional and provides a deeper press, which some users may prefer for a more satisfying feel when typing. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow's 3.5 mm travel distance is slightly shorter, making it a popular choice among gamers for its quicker response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference based on whether you prioritize a shorter, quicker press or a deeper, more tactile feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Glimp has an MSRP of $3.84 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Glimp for $3.45.
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 comparing the sound qualities of the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, it is evident that the Glimp switch offers a clacky sound profile, producing a sharp and snappy sound that adds a sense of liveliness to typing sessions. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow switch provides a neutral sound signature, ensuring a moderate sound profile that is suitable for various environments. In terms of feel, the Glimp switch is described as creamy, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience, while also being mild and approachable. In contrast, the Thunder Shadow switch is noted for providing an invigorating typing sensation with pronounced feedback and a snappy feel.
Overall, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Glimp switch excels in providing a tactile typing experience with a clacky sound profile, ideal for those who prefer a responsive and lively feel while typing. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow switch offers a harmonious blend of tactile feedback and moderate sound profile, appealing to users looking for a more balanced and immersive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to individual preferences in sound, feel, and typing experience. If these qualities are similarly important to you, you can expect to achieve comparable results with either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are seeking a medium-light switch with a comfortable actuation force and tactile feedback, the KTT Glimp linear switch would be a great choice. It offers a satisfying typing experience with a clacky sound profile that adds to the overall enjoyment of your typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a pronounced tactile bump and a harmonious balance, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch is the way to go. It provides a medium weight feel with a neutral sound signature, showcasing Aflion's commitment to innovation. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a creamy and mild typing experience or an invigorating and reactive typing sensation. Consider your preferences for bottom-out force, sound, and feel to determine which switch aligns best with your typing style and needs.
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