TTC Gold Red Pro vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, both offer unique characteristics suited to different preferences. The Gold Red Pro stands out for its versatility, providing a seamless typing experience with a neutral sound signature that is pleasing in any environment. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow by Aflion offers a pronounced tactile bump and medium weight feel, embodying a careful balance between tactility and overall switch performance. While the Gold Red Pro may be ideal for those seeking a smooth typing experience, the Thunder Shadow is perfect for users looking for a more tactile feedback. 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
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
NPI
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18.5mm spring
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Gold Red Pro and the Thunder Shadow utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is known for its stiffness, which contributes to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches ensures a consistent sound quality and light transmission.
While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, they differ in their bottom housing material. The Gold Red Pro utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. As a softer plastic, nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the Thunder Shadow also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, providing a similar deep and full sound profile. This commonality in bottom housing material contributes to a consistent typing experience between the two switches.
When considering the overall impact of housing materials on switch performance, it is evident that the top and bottom housings play distinct roles. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Despite the differences in bottom housing material between the Gold Red Pro and the Thunder Shadow, the split of qualities between the two housings ensures a balance in sound profile and typing experience. Overall, both switches offer a unique combination of materials that contribute to their individual sound characteristics.
Weight
The TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams when compared to the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, while the Gold Red Pro's bottom out force is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Gold Red Pro may be the better option due to its lower actuation force. However, for those who enjoy a more substantial push feel, the Thunder Shadow would be the ideal choice with its heavier bottom out force. Both switches offer unique experiences based on their force requirements, allowing users to customize their typing experience to their preference.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for users who prioritize quick response times, such as gamers. The Gold Red Pro offers a slightly longer travel distance, providing a bit more depth when pressing the key compared to the Thunder Shadow. However, the difference of 0.3 mm may not be significant enough to notice in real-world usage. Ultimately, whether you choose the Gold Red Pro or the Thunder Shadow will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red Pro for $2.90.
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 TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, characterized by a deep and satisfying sound when pressed, making it suitable for various environments. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch also boasts a neutral sound signature, ensuring a consistent and moderate sound profile that pairs well with its tactile feedback.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Gold Red Pro is described as offering a polished, silky, mild, and subtle typing experience, with smooth key travel and reduced friction. This results in a comfortable and gentle typing feel that appeals to a wide range of users. In contrast, the Thunder Shadow is known for its invigorating tactile feedback, providing a firm actuation force and reactive feel that creates an immersive typing sensation for users seeking a more pronounced tactile response.
Overall, both the Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Gold Red Pro excels in its versatile and adaptable nature with a neutral sound and a polished typing experience, the Thunder Shadow stands out with its pronounced tactile bump and invigorating feel. Depending on your personal preferences and typing style, either switch can provide a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience, ensuring that you'll get similar results in terms of quality and performance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a seamless typing experience with a neutral sound signature that suits various settings, the Gold Red Pro may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you seek a tactile switch with a pronounced tactile bump, medium weight feel, and neutral sound profile, the Thunder Shadow could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for linear or tactile switches, as well as the specific qualities and characteristics that align with your typing style and environment. Make sure to test both switches if possible to determine which one enhances your typing experience the most.
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