KTT Laurel vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the KTT Laurel and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Laurel and Aflion Thunder Shadow stand out as popular choices for different reasons. The KTT Laurel is a linear switch known for its medium-light feel, full POM housing, short travel distance, and long pole design, offering a balance of responsiveness and comfort. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow is a tactile switch that boasts a pronounced tactile bump, a medium weight feel with a 63.5g bottom-out, and a neutral sound profile. While the Laurel is characterized by a low-pitched, snappy sound, the Thunder Shadow offers an invigorating tactile experience with a neutral sound signature. When choosing between these two switches, the Laurel may be preferred for its linear feel and smooth responsiveness, while the Thunder Shadow could be chosen for its tactile feedback and balanced weight. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22m spring
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Laurel and the Aflion Thunder Shadow offer unique sound profiles due to their different properties. While the Laurel features a POM top and bottom housing creating a deeper and more muted sound, the Thunder Shadow's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. The POM material is known for its pleasing sound, while polycarbonate's stiffness contributes to a clearer and resonant sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Thunder Shadow allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetic element to the switch.
On the other hand, the bottom housing of the Laurel and Thunder Shadow also differs in material. The Laurel's POM bottom housing maintains the deep and pleasing sound profile, while the Thunder Shadow's nylon bottom housing results in a fuller and deeper sound. Nylon's softness absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound profile compared to POM. These differences in bottom housing material contribute to the overall typing experience and sound feedback of each switch.
When considering how the top and bottom housings interact to create the overall sound profile of the switch, it's important to note that each material brings its own unique qualities. The impact of the bottom housing is more noticeable when bottoming out a key, influencing the sound and feel at that moment. Conversely, the top housing plays a larger role in the sound when releasing a key, affecting the overall typing experience. While the Laurel and Thunder Shadow utilize different housing materials, each contributes to a distinct sound profile that can enhance the typing experience for users.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Laurel linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, it is evident that they offer different experiences. The Laurel has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a smoother and more effortless typing experience. In contrast, the Thunder Shadow has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, offering a more substantial push feel. Since the actuation force for the Thunder Shadow is unknown, it is difficult to directly compare it to the Laurel in this aspect. However, based on the provided information, it is clear that the Laurel is the lighter option, ideal for those who prefer extended typing or gaming sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow is the heavier option, suited for individuals who prefer a more forceful typing experience for increased feedback and precision. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Laurel linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch have the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when pressing down on either key, you will experience the same amount of travel from top to bottom. The similarity in travel distance ensures that users will get consistent results in terms of the physical feel of pressing the keys, making them both reliable options for keyboard enthusiasts.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Laurel has an MSRP of $4.42 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Laurel for $3.95.
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 KTT Laurel linear switch offers a subtly low-pitched profile, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone during keystrokes. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch is known for its neutral sound signature, which has a moderate and versatile sound suitable for various typing environments. The choice between the two will come down to personal preference, with the Laurel offering a deeper tone and the Thunder Shadow providing a more balanced sound experience.
Moving on to feel, the KTT Laurel switch is praised for its snappy response, offering a super responsive typing experience due to its design with longer or dual-staged springs. In contrast, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch is described as invigorating, providing pronounced feedback, a moderate to firm actuation force, and a reactive feel that creates an immersive typing sensation. Both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, but the Laurel may appeal more to those who prefer a snappier response, while the Thunder Shadow suits those looking for a more tactile and engaging feel.
Taking all the available information into account, the KTT Laurel linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch each have their unique qualities to offer to mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Whether you prefer a low-pitched sound with a snappy feel or a neutral sound with an invigorating tactile feedback, both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles. Ultimately, the choice between the Laurel and the Thunder Shadow will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when selecting between the KTT Laurel linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. Choose the Laurel if you prefer a lighter bottom-out force of 50 grams, a low-pitched sound profile, and a snappy feel for a responsive typing experience. On the other hand, opt for the Thunder Shadow if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom-out force of 63.5 grams, a neutral sound profile, and an invigorating tactile feedback for a more immersive typing sensation. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound profile. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing styles, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing preferences.
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