KTT Orange vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the KTT Orange and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options stand out: the KTT Orange and the Aflion Thunder Shadow. The KTT Orange switch is a linear switch renowned for its bouncy feel, thanks to its 22mm long spring. With a polycarbonate milky top housing and a vivid orange nylon bottom housing, this switch offers a frictionless typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile. In contrast, the Aflion Thunder Shadow is a tactile switch that boasts a pronounced tactile bump for a satisfying keystroke. With a medium-weight feel and a neutral sound signature, the Thunder Shadows strike a harmonious balance between tactile feedback and overall typing experience. While the Orange switch excels in providing a smooth and bouncy feel, the Thunder Shadow offers a satisfying tactile response with a 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
46g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The KTT Orange and the Aflion Thunder Shadow both feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to their stiffer nature. Aesthetically, the translucent nature of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visual element to the switches. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow stands out with its nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound overall.
In terms of sound profile, the KTT Orange and Aflion Thunder Shadow have distinct qualities due to their different housing materials. While both switches have a sharp and clear sound from the polycarbonate top housing, the Thunder Shadow's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller tone. This difference in sound can impact the overall typing experience, with the Orange providing a crisper sound on key release and the Thunder Shadow offering a more muted and rounded sound when bottoming out keys. Essentially, the choice between the two switches would come down to personal preference in sound profile and aesthetic preferences when considering RGB lighting effects.
Ultimately, the differing housing materials of the KTT Orange and Aflion Thunder Shadow offer unique sound profiles and tactile experiences. The polycarbonate top housing provides a distinct sound signature, with a sharper and more resonant tone, while the nylon bottom housing of the Thunder Shadow offers a deeper and fuller sound. Understanding the impact of these housing materials on sound and feel can help users make an informed decision based on their preferences for typing experience. Whether opting for the crisper sound of the Orange or the fuller sound of the Thunder Shadow, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
In comparing the KTT Orange linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, it is clear that the actuation and bottom out forces vary between the two. The Orange switch has a lighter actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a medium-light option. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow switch has an unknown actuation force but a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, categorizing it as a medium-heavy choice. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, the Orange switch may be the preferred option. In contrast, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may lean towards the Thunder Shadow switch. Ultimately, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces between the two switches cater to individual preferences for typing comfort and feedback.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Orange linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, it is evident that both switches have the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, users will experience the same amount of travel distance. As a result, whether you choose the Orange or the Thunder Shadow, you can expect to receive similar results in terms of the travel distance of the switch. Even though their design and feel may differ due to being a linear switch versus a tactile switch, the actual distance traveled by these switches remains the same.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Orange has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange for $4.15.
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 Orange linear switch offers a low-pitched profile, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone during typing. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch has a neutral sound signature, striking a balance that is suitable for various typing environments. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preferences and the overall sound profile desired.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Orange linear switch is characterized by its bouncy and frictionless qualities, offering a spring-like feedback sensation and a smooth typing experience with minimal resistance. In contrast, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch provides an invigorating feel with pronounced tactile feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy, reactive typing sensation. Depending on individual typing preferences and typing style, users may prefer one over the other based on the desired typing experience.
Overall, both the KTT Orange linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. The KTT Orange switch provides a bouncy and frictionless typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, while the Aflion Thunder Shadow switch offers an invigorating feel with a neutral sound signature. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. Regardless of the choice, users can expect a high-quality typing experience with either switch option.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the KTT Orange linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, it ultimately depends on your personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a lighter switch with a bouncy and frictionless feel, along with a low-pitched sound profile, then the KTT Orange switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with an invigorating tactile bump, a neutral sound profile, and a harmonious balance overall, then the Aflion Thunder Shadow switch would be more suited to your needs. Consider these factors when deciding which switch to go for, as they can greatly enhance your typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
