KTT Purple Click vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the KTT Purple Click and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Purple Click and Aflion Thunder Shadow mechanical keyboard switches, the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference. The Purple Click is celebrated for its high-pitched, satisfying click and light keystrokes that offer a perfect balance of tactility without being overwhelming. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow by Aflion boasts a pronounced tactile bump and a medium weight feel, with a neutral sound signature that exemplifies the company's dedication to innovation. While the Purple Click may appeal to those seeking a more invigorating and resonant typing experience, the Thunder Shadow may be preferred for its harmonious balance and fine-tuned tactile feedback. 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
40g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the KTT Purple Click and the Aflion Thunder Shadow utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiff plastic that enhances clarity and resonance in the sound produced by the switch. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through more effectively. Despite both switches sharing this housing material, the design and overall aesthetic of each switch may differ, offering a unique visual appeal to users.
In contrast to the top housing, both switches feature a nylon bottom housing that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is a softer plastic compared to polycarbonate, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound. This difference in material between the top and bottom housing allows for a dynamic typing experience, where users can feel the impact of the bottom housing when pressing down on a key, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing the key. The combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the housing of these switches results in a balanced and nuanced typing experience.
While the KTT Purple Click and Aflion Thunder Shadow may differ in their overall design and branding, the choice of housing materials plays a significant role in the sound profile and typing experience of both switches. The polycarbonate top housing creates a sharp and clear sound, particularly beneficial for RGB lighting effects, while the nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound when typing. These switches highlight the importance of housing materials in customizing the sound and feel of mechanical keyboards, catering to the preferences of users who value both aesthetics and performance.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Purple Click clicky switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, it is evident that the Purple Click is lighter in terms of actuation force at 40 grams compared to the Thunder Shadow's unknown force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Purple Click requires 55 grams while the Thunder Shadow needs 63.5 grams, making the Thunder Shadow the heavier of the two switches. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Purple Click for longer typing sessions, while individuals looking for a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Thunder Shadow. Both switches provide different levels of tactile feedback, but with similar actuation and bottom out forces, users can expect a comparable typing experience overall.
Travel distance
The KTT Purple Click clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer of the two switches. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it the shorter option. The Purple Click offers a bit more depth when pressed down compared to the Thunder Shadow. If you prefer a more traditional travel distance, the Purple Click might be more suitable for you. However, if you prefer a slightly shorter travel distance for quicker response times, the Thunder Shadow could be the better choice. Both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, but the slight difference in travel distance can cater to different preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Purple Click has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Click for $2.55.
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 Purple Click switch offers a crunchy and resonant experience, reminiscent of stepping on piles of autumn leaves with a clean and sharp sound profile. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow switch provides a neutral sound, suitable for various settings and purposes. Both switches excel in their own way, creating distinct auditory experiences that appeal to different preferences.
In terms of feel, both the Purple Click and Thunder Shadow switches are described as invigorating, offering pronounced feedback and a snappy, reactive feel. The Purple Click switch is also noted for its stepped sensation, providing a unique typing experience with two distinct stages. This sets it apart from the Thunder Shadow switch, which focuses on delivering a medium weight feel with a tactile bump. Despite these differences in specific tactile aspects, both switches ultimately aim to provide users with an engaging and immersive typing experience.
Overall, the Purple Click and Thunder Shadow switches each have their own strengths and qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. While the Purple Click offers a high-pitched click and a light yet tactile keystroke, the Thunder Shadow excels in providing a balanced tactile bump and a neutral sound signature. Whichever switch you choose, both are designed to enhance your typing experience and provide a satisfying feel with every keystroke.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a light keystroke with a high-pitched, satisfying click, the KTT Purple Click clicky switch is the way to go. It offers a perfect equilibrium of lightness and tactility, giving you an invigorating typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy feel with a pronounced tactile bump and a balanced sound, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch would be a great choice. With its 63.5g bottom-out force and neutral sound signature, the Thunder Shadow provides a harmonious typing experience suitable for various purposes. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize the clicky sound and light keystrokes of the Purple Click or the tactile bump and medium-heavy feel of the Thunder Shadow. Both switches have their unique characteristics, so choose the one that best suits your typing preferences.
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