KTT Grapefruit vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the KTT Grapefruit and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Grapefruit and Aflion Thunder Shadow offer unique experiences for users. The KTT Grapefruit is a linear switch known for its soft and light feel, with a unique "baritone" sound profile. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow is a tactile switch that provides a pronounced tactile bump while maintaining a harmonious balance and medium weight feel. The sound profile of the Thunder Shadow is neutral, serving to complement its overall design. Each switch offers its own advantages and drawbacks, with the Grapefruit providing a smooth and polished typing experience, while the Thunder Shadow's tactile feedback adds an invigorating element to typing. 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
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The KTT Grapefruit and Aflion Thunder Shadow both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiff plastic that leads to a clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, polycarbonate is also useful for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. However, the differences may lie in their nylon bottom housings. The Grapefruit's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Thunder Shadow's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound.
While both the KTT Grapefruit and Aflion Thunder Shadow utilize polycarbonate top housings for a clear and resonant sound profile, they differ in their nylon bottom housings. The nylon bottom housing of the Grapefruit provides a deep and full sound experience, while the Thunder Shadow's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller sound quality. These differences in bottom housing material can affect the overall sound and feel of typing on these switches, as the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key.
In summary, the KTT Grapefruit and Aflion Thunder Shadow both benefit from the polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and crisp sound profile. However, their differences lie in the nylon bottom housings, with the Grapefruit offering a deeper and fuller sound and the Thunder Shadow providing a more subdued sound quality. Despite these variations, both switches show how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the typing experience, with the top and bottom housings each contributing unique qualities to the overall sound and feel.
Weight
The KTT Grapefruit linear switch features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, providing a medium-light typing experience. In comparison, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, with the actuation force being unknown. While the Grapefruit offers a lighter touch that may be preferred for extended typing sessions or gaming, the Thunder Shadow provides a more substantial typing feel that some users may find satisfying for a more pronounced keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Grapefruit 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 slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Grapefruit. A 4.0mm travel distance is more traditional, offering a balance between depth and responsiveness, while a 3.5mm travel distance is shallower and may appeal to those looking for quicker response times, such as gamers. Both switches provide a different tactile experience based on their travel distance, with the Grapefruit offering a bit more depth and the Thunder Shadow providing a slightly quicker key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The KTT Grapefruit comes in at $3.41 per 10 switches.
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, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone suitable for various environments. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch also boasts a neutral sound signature, ensuring a balanced auditory experience that complements its tactile feedback without being too loud or distracting. Both switches offer a pleasing sound experience that is versatile and well-suited for different typing preferences.
In terms of feel, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch is known for its polished finish, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Conversely, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch provides an invigorating feel with a pronounced tactile bump, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy, reactive sensation that immerses the user in each keystroke. Both switches cater to different preferences in typing feel, with the Grapefruit focusing on a sleek and polished experience while the Thunder Shadow offers a more tactile and responsive touch.
Overall, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch each have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. Whether you prefer a low-pitched and polished typing experience with the Grapefruit or an invigorating and tactile sensation with the Thunder Shadow, both switches offer high-quality performance that can enhance your overall typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for sound, feel, and typing style as both switches provide excellent options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, consider your preferences and typing style. If you prefer a softer and lighter typing experience with a medium-light bottom out force, the Grapefruit would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a pronounced tactile bump and a medium-heavy bottom out force for a more invigorating typing experience, the Thunder Shadow may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches boils down to whether you prioritize a smooth and polished feel with a low-pitched sound (Grapefruit) or a tactile and invigorating feel with a neutral sound profile (Thunder Shadow). Choose the switch that best aligns with your typing preferences and enjoy a customized keyboard experience tailored to your needs.
Mentioned in this article
