KTT Lightning vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the KTT Lightning 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 KTT Lightning and the Aflion Thunder Shadow offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Lightning is a linear switch renowned for its speed and responsiveness, making it ideal for gamers seeking precise keystrokes. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow from Aflion is a tactile switch that provides a satisfying tactile bump while maintaining a balanced feel for typing and gaming. The Lightning offers a clacky sound profile, while the Thunder Shadow boasts a more neutral sound signature. 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
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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 housing materials of both the KTT Lightning and the Aflion Thunder Shadow share similarities in that they both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. Polycarbonate, known for its stiffness and translucency, creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in switches. This material is especially beneficial for switches with RGB lighting due to its ability to let light shine through. On the other hand, the two switches differ in their choice of material for the bottom housing. The Lightning uses a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, whereas the Thunder Shadow also employs nylon for its bottom housing, leading to a similar sound experience.
However, despite the similar choice of nylon for the bottom housing, the KTT Lightning and the Aflion Thunder Shadow may still offer slightly different typing experiences due to variations in the overall design and construction of the switches. While the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, the top housing has more influence on the sound produced when a key is released. Therefore, any differences between the two switches in terms of their overall typing feel and sound may still stem from the materials and design choices made for their top housings. Ultimately, both switches offer a blend of qualities from their top and bottom housings that contribute to their unique sound profiles and overall typing experiences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, we see some clear differences. The Lightning switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Thunder Shadow's unknown actuation force. This means that the Lightning switch will require less force to register a keystroke, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, indicating that it will provide a more substantial typing experience compared to the Lightning switch's 50-gram bottom out force. This difference in bottom out force may appeal to users who prefer a switch with a firmer feel. Overall, the Lightning switch is lighter in both actuation and bottom out force compared to the Thunder Shadow, making it a great choice for those who prioritize a lighter typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Lightning linear switch is 3 mm, while the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular for their quick response times. Gamers, in particular, tend to favor switches with shorter travel distances for faster gameplay. However, some users may find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt and prefer a switch with a bit more depth. In this case, the Thunder Shadow with its slightly longer travel distance may be the preferred option. 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 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 Lightning 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 Lightning linear switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, perfect for those who enjoy a crisp and percussive typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch provides a neutral sound signature, making it suitable for a variety of environments without being too overpowering. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them will ultimately depend on personal preference and the overall setup of your keyboard.
Moving on to feel, the KTT Lightning switch provides a subtle and polished typing experience, with a gentle resistance and smooth key travel for a sleek and refined feel. In contrast, the Aflion Thunder Shadow switch offers an invigorating sensation with pronounced feedback and a snappy, reactive feel, creating an immersive typing experience. Again, the decision between these switches will come down to individual preferences in terms of typing feel and the level of feedback desired during use.
In conclusion, the KTT Lightning linear switch and Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Lightning switch is ideal for those who prefer a clacky and high-pitched sound profile with a subtle and polished typing feel, the Thunder Shadow switch caters to users looking for a neutral sound signature and an invigorating typing experience. Both switches have their strengths and cater to different preferences, so choosing between them will depend on individual preferences and the specific requirements of the user. Ultimately, both switches offer quality performance and are sure to provide a satisfying typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the KTT Lightning linear switch or the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize speed and quick response time, the Lightning switch with its light bottom out force of 50 grams may be the better choice for you. The slick typing feel and clacky sound profile make it ideal for gaming and fast-paced typing tasks. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy tactile switch with a pronounced bump and balanced feel, the Thunder Shadow switch with its 63.5 grams bottom out force is worth considering. The neutral sound signature and invigorating typing sensation it offers cater to those seeking a more immersive and tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches should be based on your personal preferences and specific use cases.
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