TKC Kiwi vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the TKC Kiwi and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the TKC Kiwi and the Aflion Thunder Shadow both offer tactile feedback but with distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Kiwi switch is well-regarded for its medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, providing a satisfyingly snappy sound profile that enhances the typing experience. With a 'Stepped', 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Accented', 'Polished' categorization, the Kiwi switch stands out for its smooth and effortless typing experience right out of the box. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow by Aflion impresses with its pronounced tactile bump and medium weight feel, striking a harmonious balance with a 63.5g bottom-out force. Categorized as 'Invigorating' and 'Neutral', the Thunder Shadow showcases Aflion's dedication to fine-tuned innovation. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference and typing style; however, let's delve deeper to help you determine which switch is best suited for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
N/A
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
UHWMPE
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold coated spring
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TKC Kiwi and the Aflion Thunder Shadow differ in terms of their top and bottom components. The Kiwi features a UHWMPE top housing known for its bright sound signature and resonant clacks, while the Thunder Shadow boasts a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. On the other hand, the Kiwi's UHWMPE bottom housing offers similar bright sound characteristics as its top housing, while the Thunder Shadow utilizes a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer and sound-absorbing properties.
In terms of sound characteristics, the top and bottom housing materials of the TKC Kiwi and Aflion Thunder Shadow play a significant role in shaping the overall typing experience. While the UHWMPE top and bottom housings of the Kiwi both contribute to a bright sound signature, the polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housings of the Thunder Shadow create a more contrasting sound profile with a sharper top sound and a deeper bottom sound. This difference in material composition highlights the importance of considering both top and bottom housing materials in determining the overall sound and feel of a switch.
Although the top and bottom housing materials of the TKC Kiwi and Aflion Thunder Shadow serve different purposes in shaping the sound profile of the switches, they both play essential roles in enhancing the typing experience. The bright and resonant qualities of UHWMPE in the Kiwi's housing materials provide a unique typing experience, while the Thunder Shadow's polycarbonate and nylon housing materials offer a sharper top sound and a fuller bottom sound. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound characteristics and typing feel, with each switch offering a distinct sound profile based on its housing material composition.
Weight
When comparing the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, it's clear that the Kiwi is the lighter option with an actuation force of 43 grams, while the Thunder Shadow's actuation force is unknown. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Kiwi at 67 grams and the Thunder Shadow at 63.5 grams, making them both medium-heavy in that aspect. Those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming may lean towards the Kiwi, while those who prefer a stronger push feel may be more inclined towards the Thunder Shadow. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The TKC Kiwi tactile switch has a travel distance of 4mm, while the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5mm. In this case, the Thunder Shadow has a shorter travel distance compared to the Kiwi. The TKC Kiwi's 4mm travel distance is considered a more traditional length, offering a balance between depth and responsiveness. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow's 3.5mm travel distance might appeal to those seeking a quicker response time, such as gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences 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 TKC Kiwi comes in at $8.00 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
In terms of sound, both the TKC Kiwi and Aflion Thunder Shadow switches have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various typing environments and preferences. The Kiwi switch is known for its low-pitched sound, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone during typing sessions. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow switch offers a similar neutral sound signature, complementing its tactile bump and medium weight feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches in terms of sound may come down to personal preference and the overall keyboard setup being used.
When it comes to feel, the TKC Kiwi switch is characterized by its stepped and accented tactile feel, providing users with a smooth and refined typing experience. The switch's polished finish ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing sensation. In contrast, the Aflion Thunder Shadow switch is described as invigorating, offering pronounced feedback and a snappy, reactive feel that creates an immersive typing experience. While the Kiwi switch focuses on a more subtle and refined tactility, the Thunder Shadow switch prioritizes a firm actuation force and a more pronounced tactile bump. Again, the choice between the two switches will ultimately depend on personal preference for typing feel.
Overall, both the TKC Kiwi and Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. While the Kiwi switch provides a low-pitched sound profile and a polished, refined tactile feel, the Thunder Shadow switch offers a neutral sound signature and an invigorating, pronounced tactile feedback. Whether users prefer a smoother, more subtle tactile experience or a firmer, more pronounced tactile sensation, both switches deliver a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing style.
Conclusion
In summary, when considering whether to choose the TKC Kiwi tactile switch or the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and a snappy sound profile with a medium to medium-strong bump, the Kiwi switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a balanced tactile bump with a neutral sound signature and a slightly lighter bottom out force, the Thunder Shadow switch could be more suited to your preferences. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing experiences, so take into account your typing preferences and needs when making your decision. Ultimately, you can't go wrong with either switch as they both offer a high-quality typing experience.
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