TTC Honey vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the TTC Honey and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Honey and Aflion Thunder Shadow stand out as popular choices among enthusiasts. The TTC Honey, a linear switch, is praised for its smooth and creamy feel and deep, pleasant sound profile. Categorized as 'Subdued', 'Creamy', 'Frictionless', 'Buttery', 'Subtle', and 'Polished', the Honey offers a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow, a tactile switch, is recognized for its pronounced tactile bump and medium weight feel of 63.5g bottom-out. With a neutral sound signature, the Thunder Shadow is categorized as 'Invigorating' and 'Neutral'. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal, making them attractive options for different preferences. 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
42g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
25.5 mm lengthened spring
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Honey and the Aflion Thunder Shadow, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. The translucency of polycarbonate is especially beneficial for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting, providing a visually appealing aesthetic. Despite both switches using the same material for the top housing, the Thunder Shadow differs in its bottom housing, which is made of nylon. This material choice creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Honey's polycarbonate bottom housing.
The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both the TTC Honey and the Aflion Thunder Shadow results in a similar sound profile characterized by sharpness and clarity. However, the difference in the bottom housing material between the two switches is notable. While the Honey continues to utilize polycarbonate for its bottom housing, resulting in a consistent sound experience throughout the switch, the Thunder Shadow's nylon bottom housing introduces a different sound quality with a deeper and fuller tone. This distinction showcases how housing material can impact the overall sound profile of a switch, emphasizing the importance of considering both top and bottom housing materials in switch design.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the TTC Honey and the Aflion Thunder Shadow demonstrates how different materials can influence the sound and feel of a mechanical switch. Both switches benefit from polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharp and clear sound profile, particularly suitable for switches incorporating RGB lighting. However, the Thunder Shadow's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Honey's polycarbonate bottom housing. This highlights how the combination of different housing materials can result in unique sound experiences, with each material bringing its own characteristics to the overall performance of the switch.
Weight
The TTC Honey linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams compared to the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. When it comes to bottom out force, the Honey switch requires 50 grams, while the Thunder Shadow switch demands a heavier 63.5 grams. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Honey switch, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow switch would be more suitable for individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The TTC Honey linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, slightly longer than the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. While both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, the Honey switch provides a bit more depth compared to the Thunder Shadow. Gamers may appreciate the Honey switch for its slightly longer travel distance, which can offer a more satisfying keypress feel. On the other hand, those who prefer a more responsive typing experience may lean towards the Thunder Shadow with its shorter travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Honey has an MSRP of $9.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Honey for $6.78.
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 it comes to sound, the TTC Honey linear switch offers a subdued and dampened sound profile, providing a more subtle typing experience compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch boasts a neutral sound signature that complements its pronounced tactile bump, catering to a wide range of preferences. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that can enhance the overall typing experience, with the Honey providing a deep and pleasant sound while the Thunder Shadow remains neutral and balanced.
In terms of feel, the TTC Honey linear switch is known for its creamy and frictionless typing experience, offering a smooth and buttery sensation that makes typing effortless. The switch also has a subtle and polished feel, resulting in a sleek and refined typing experience ideal for shared spaces. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch provides an invigorating typing experience with pronounced feedback and a moderate to firm actuation force, creating a snappy and reactive feel that immerses the user in their typing. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences, with the Honey focusing on smoothness and fluidity, while the Thunder Shadow emphasizes feedback and responsiveness.
In conclusion, the TTC Honey linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. If you prefer a smoother and creamier typing experience with a subdued sound, the Honey switch is a great choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more tactile and invigorating typing feel with a neutral sound profile, the Thunder Shadow switch is an excellent option. Ultimately, both switches provide unique qualities that can elevate your typing experience, ensuring a satisfying and comfortable use of your mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Honey linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, consider the specific qualities and preferences you prioritize in a keyboard switch. If you value a light bottom-out force, smooth and creamy typing experience, and a subdued sound profile, then the TTC Honey switch could be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom-out force, a pronounced tactile bump, and a neutral sound signature, the Aflion Thunder Shadow switch may be more suited to your typing style. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the type of typing experience you desire.
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