KTT Peach vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the KTT Peach and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Peach and Aflion Thunder Shadow offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Peach is a linear switch renowned for its smooth typing experience and deep sound profile, ideal for those who enjoy a low-pitched and mild feel while typing. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow by Aflion stands out with its tactile bump and medium weight feel, providing an invigorating typing experience with a neutral sound signature. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different users based on their preferences. 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
13mm progressive spring
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of both the KTT Peach and the Aflion Thunder Shadow share the same polycarbonate top housing. Utilizing polycarbonate in the top housing of these switches results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate plastic contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal material for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. This common material choice ensures that both the Peach and Thunder Shadow switches produce similar sound profiles and aesthetics due to the translucency of polycarbonate.
However, where the two switches differ is in their nylon bottom housing. The Peach features a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing. Similarly, the Thunder Shadow also incorporates a nylon bottom housing, offering the same benefits of a deeper and fuller sound profile. Despite their differing bottom housing materials, both switches are able to deliver a satisfying typing experience with unique sound characteristics.
In terms of functionality, the split design of the top and bottom housings in these switches allows for a division in the qualities that each material brings. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This separation of qualities between the top and bottom housings ensures that each switch provides a distinct typing experience, with the Peach and Thunder Shadow offering a combination of crispness and depth in their sound profiles.
Weight
The KTT Peach linear switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch. The Peach requires 45 grams of force to actuate and 53 grams to bottom out, making it medium-light. In contrast, the Thunder Shadow's actuation force is unknown but has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it medium-heavy. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Peach switch, while those who prefer a stronger push may opt for the Thunder Shadow switch for a more substantial typing experience. The difference in weight between the two switches can cater to users with varying preferences for typing feel and duration.
Travel distance
The KTT Peach linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Peach switch would be considered longer compared to the Thunder Shadow. The Peach switch may provide a slightly deeper feel when pressed compared to the Thunder Shadow. However, both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Peach being slightly on the longer side. Ultimately, the choice between the two would come down to personal preference regarding the feel and responsiveness desired in a keyboard switch.
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 Peach comes in at $2.91 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 Peach linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone suitable for various environments and users. Similarly, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch also boasts a neutral sound signature, ensuring a harmonious balance that complements its tactile bump without being too disruptive. Both switches cater to a wide range of users, whether they are beginners or experienced typists, offering a pleasant auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the KTT Peach linear switch delivers a mild typing experience, featuring a gentle feel that is approachable to most users. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch provides an invigorating typing sensation with its pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and reactive feel. While the Peach switch offers a more subtle tactile experience, the Thunder Shadow switch appeals to users seeking a more immersive and responsive typing feel.
Overall, both the KTT Peach linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Peach switch excels in providing a smooth typing experience with a deep, thocky sound profile, while the Thunder Shadow switch strikes a balance between tactile feedback and overall feel. Depending on whether you prioritize sound, feel, or a combination of both, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, users can expect similar levels of quality and performance from both switches, showcasing the diversity and innovation present in the mechanical keyboard switch market.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Peach linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a lighter bottom-out force and a smooth typing experience with a deep sound profile, the KTT Peach switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom-out force combined with a pronounced tactile bump for a balanced typing feel and a neutral sound signature, the Aflion Thunder Shadow switch would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing experience, sound profile, and key feel. Make sure to consider these factors carefully before selecting the switch that best matches your typing style and preferences.
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