KTT Miaowu vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the KTT Miaowu and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Miaowu linear switch to the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, it's evident that both offer unique characteristics to elevate your typing experience. The Miaowu's focus on stem stability and smooth keystroke action sets it apart as a 'Bouncy' and 'Clacky' option, perfect for those seeking a consistent and responsive typing feel. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow stands out with its pronounced tactile bump and medium weight feel, providing an 'Invigorating' and 'Neutral' typing experience that strikes a harmonious balance. While both switches offer distinct advantages, such as the Miaowu's enhanced stem stability and the Thunder Shadow's neutral sound signature, it ultimately comes down to individual preference. 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
2.00 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
POK
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Miaowu and the Aflion Thunder Shadow share similarities in their polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate. Both switches are aesthetically pleasing with their translucent housing, making them ideal for use with RGB lighting. However, the differences arise in their nylon bottom housing. The Miaowu's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Thunder Shadow's nylon bottom housing also creates a similar sound experience with its softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
Despite the similarities in their polycarbonate top housing, the KTT Miaowu and the Aflion Thunder Shadow differ in how the qualities of their housing materials are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing of both switches plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, with nylon material providing a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the top housing, made of polycarbonate in both cases, affects the sound when a key is released, showcasing a sharper and crisper sound profile. This division of qualities between the top and bottom housing materials offers a unique typing experience for each switch.
In conclusion, while the KTT Miaowu and the Aflion Thunder Shadow both feature polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and clear sound profile, their differences in nylon bottom housing bring unique sound experiences. The Miaowu's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, while the Thunder Shadow's nylon bottom housing offers a similar experience with a duller and rounder sound. The split of qualities between the top and bottom housing materials defines the typing experience of each switch, showcasing the importance of housing materials in creating distinct sound profiles.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Miaowu linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch differ in weight. The Miaowu has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Thunder Shadow has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel. The actuation force for the Thunder Shadow is unknown, but since the Miaowu is lighter, it can be inferred that the Thunder Shadow may also have a heavier actuation force. Ultimately, those who prefer a lighter typing feel may lean towards the Miaowu, while those who prefer a heavier push may opt for the Thunder Shadow for a more robust typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Miaowu linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch have the same travel distance of 3.5mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, users can expect a consistent and similar feel in terms of the distance traveled. This similarity in travel distance ensures that users will experience a familiar sensation when typing on keyboards featuring either switch. Overall, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience with a travel distance that is neither too short nor too long.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Miaowu has an MSRP of $4.32 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Miaowu for $3.71.
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 KTT Miaowu linear switch offers a clacky experience, giving users a sharp and snappy sound with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch provides a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. Both switches offer distinct sound qualities that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them would depend on personal preference and the overall setup of the keyboard.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Miaowu linear switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback that gives users a lively and responsive typing experience. In contrast, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch offers an invigorating feel, with pronounced feedback and a moderate to firm actuation force that creates a satisfying and immersive typing sensation. Depending on whether one prefers a bouncy and lively feel or a more pronounced tactile feedback, users can make a decision based on their individual typing preferences.
In conclusion, both the KTT Miaowu linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. While the Miaowu switch offers a clacky sound and bouncy feel, the Thunder Shadow switch provides a neutral sound and invigorating tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience that each user is looking for. With both switches offering high-quality construction and performance, users can expect a satisfying typing experience regardless of their choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a light switch with enhanced stem stability and a smoother keystroke action, the KTT Miaowu linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a pronounced tactile bump and a harmonious balance, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch would be more suitable. The Miaowu offers a clacky sound and a bouncy feel, while the Thunder Shadow provides a neutral sound and an invigorating typing sensation. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and actuation force.
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