TTC Neptune vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the TTC Neptune and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The TTC Neptune and Aflion Thunder Shadow are two distinct mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique typing experiences. The Neptune stands out for its innovative internal structure, providing a smooth and frictionless glide with a springy resistance that resembles chewy delights like mochi or tapioca pearls. This results in a matte feel that enhances every keystroke, making typing a textured pleasure. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow from Aflion features a pronounced tactile bump and medium weight feel, striking a harmonious balance with a 63.5g bottom-out. Despite their differences, both switches offer unique benefits - the Neptune is ideal for those looking for a buttery, gummy, and muted typing experience, while the Thunder Shadow is perfect for those seeking a more invigorating and tactile feel. 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
41g
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
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Neptune and the Aflion Thunder Shadow offer contrasting sound profiles and aesthetics. The Neptune features a POM top housing which creates a deep and muted sound, while the Thunder Shadow's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, providing a visually appealing option. On the other hand, the Neptune's polycarbonate bottom housing and the Thunder Shadow's nylon bottom housing offer differing sound profiles as well, with polycarbonate producing a crisper sound and nylon a deeper and fuller sound.
The use of different housing materials in the Neptune and Thunder Shadow results in distinct typing experiences. The split between the top and bottom housings means that the qualities of each material will impact different aspects of the switch. When bottoming out a key, the bottom housing material will have a more significant impact on the sound and feel, with polycarbonate offering a sharper sound and nylon providing a fuller sound. Conversely, when releasing a key, the top housing material will play a more prominent role in the sound produced, with POM creating a more muted sound profile and polycarbonate offering a clearer sound.
Despite their differences, the housing materials of the TTC Neptune and the Aflion Thunder Shadow both contribute to the overall typing experience of the switches. While the Neptune offers a deeper and muted sound with its POM top housing and polycarbonate bottom housing, the Thunder Shadow provides a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing. Both switches showcase how the choice of housing material can impact the sound profile and typing feel, with each material offering unique qualities to enhance the user experience. Whether seeking a deeper sound profile with nylon or a clearer sound with polycarbonate, both switches provide options for customization and personal preference.
Weight
The TTC Neptune linear switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch. The Neptune requires 41 grams to actuate and 50 grams to bottom out, while the Thunder Shadow's actuation force is unknown and requires 63.5 grams to bottom out. The Neptune provides a lighter typing experience, making it suitable for those who prefer less resistance when typing for extended periods. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force, appealing to those who enjoy a stronger push feel. Both switches have their own advantages based on individual preferences, with the Neptune being lighter and the Thunder Shadow being heavier in terms of force required for typing.
Travel distance
The TTC Neptune linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those who prioritize quick responsiveness. Gamers, in particular, may appreciate the shorter travel distance of these switches for faster response times during gameplay. However, some users may find the shorter travel distance to feel abrupt, and may prefer a switch with a longer travel distance for a more substantial keypress feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and keypress feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Neptune has an MSRP of $7.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Neptune for $5.09.
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 Neptune linear switch is best described as having a low-pitched, muted, neutral, and subdued sound profile, providing a quieter and more refined typing experience overall. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile, ensuring a moderate sound profile suitable for various typing intensities. Both switches aim to provide a pleasant auditory ambiance, with the Neptune leaning towards a more subdued sound and the Thunder Shadow maintaining a balanced sound signature. As such, users can expect a similar level of sound experience with both switches, tailored to different preferences and environments.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Neptune linear switch offers a buttery, gummy, frictionless, mild, and polished typing experience. These qualities translate into a smooth, effortless, and textured pleasure with each keystroke. In contrast, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch provides an invigorating typing sensation with pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy, reactive feel. While the Neptune emphasizes a smoother and more refined typing feel, the Thunder Shadow focuses on offering a more tactile and responsive typing experience. Users can choose between a more cushioned and polished feel with the Neptune or a firmer and more reactive feel with the Thunder Shadow, catering to different preferences in typing dynamics.
In conclusion, the TTC Neptune linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch each bring their unique qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel. The Neptune excels in providing a muted and refined sound with a smoother and more textured typing feel, ideal for a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow offers a neutral sound profile and an invigorating tactile feel, perfect for users seeking a more responsive and tactile typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing dynamics, ensuring a tailored mechanical keyboard experience for newcomers to the world of switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering the TTC Neptune linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, your choice should depend on your preference for typing experience. If you prefer a light, smooth, and almost frictionless typing experience with a muted sound, the Neptune would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium weight switch with a pronounced tactile bump and a neutral sound profile, the Thunder Shadow would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should align with your personal preference for typing feel and sound. Choose the switch that best suits your typing style and enhances your overall typing experience.
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