KTT Sea Salt Lemon vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the KTT Sea Salt Lemon and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Sea Salt Lemon and the Aflion Thunder Shadow are two distinct mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique typing experiences. The Sea Salt Lemon, a linear switch, is praised for its buttery smooth typing experience thanks to a progressive spring and KTT's dry-lube design. Categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Mild', this switch provides a gentle and consistent feel with each key press. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow, a tactile switch, boasts a pronounced tactile bump and a medium weight feel with a 63.5g bottom-out. Categorized as 'Invigorating', 'Neutral', this switch offers a satisfying tactile feedback without being too overwhelming. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
Both the KTT Sea Salt Lemon 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 the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the overall design. Despite the similarities in top housing material, the unique design and branding of each switch offer distinct aesthetic variations for consumers to choose from.
In terms of bottom housing material, both the Sea Salt Lemon and the Thunder Shadow feature nylon, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that is more pleasing to the ears. This difference in material composition between the top and bottom housings allows for a blend of qualities when typing on the switches, with the bottom housing primarily influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, the use of different housing materials in the KTT Sea Salt Lemon and the Aflion Thunder Shadow offers a unique typing experience for users. While both switches share the benefits of polycarbonate for the top housing's sound profile and nylon for the bottom housing's sound characteristics, the individual branding and design choices set them apart. Whether it be the crisper sound of the Sea Salt Lemon or the fuller sound of the Thunder Shadow, both switches cater to different preferences and offer a diverse range of options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, it is clear that they have different force profiles. The Sea Salt Lemon has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it more suitable 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. While the actuation force of the Thunder Shadow is unknown, its heavier bottom out force indicates a more forceful typing experience overall. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with the Sea Salt Lemon being the lighter option and the Thunder Shadow offering a heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Sea Salt Lemon offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may appeal to those who prefer a deeper sensation when typing. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow provides a shorter travel distance, which can result in quicker response times that are ideal for gamers. Both switches offer different experiences in terms of travel distance, with the Sea Salt Lemon being the longer option and the Thunder Shadow being the shorter option. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and response time.
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 Sea Salt Lemon comes in at $2.80 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, both the KTT Sea Salt Lemon and Aflion Thunder Shadow switches exhibit a neutral profile, making them suitable for a variety of environments and users. The Sea Salt Lemon provides a low-pitched tone, adding a mellow and bass-heavy sound to the typing experience, while the Thunder Shadow maintains a balanced sound signature that complements its tactile nature. Ultimately, choosing between the two will come down to personal preference and the overall keyboard setup.
In terms of feel, the Sea Salt Lemon offers a mild typing experience, characterized by a gentle and approachable sensation. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow switch provides an invigorating feel, with pronounced feedback and a firm actuation force that creates a snappy and reactive typing experience. Whether you prefer a more gentle and mild typing feel or a more stimulating and immersive sensation, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences.
Overall, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch and Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch each bring their own distinct qualities to the table. The Sea Salt Lemon excels in providing a smooth and buttery typing experience, accompanied by a low-pitched sound profile. In contrast, the Thunder Shadow stands out with its pronounced tactile bump, medium weight feel, and neutral sound signature. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize a smoother typing experience or a more tactile one, as both switches offer quality performance in their respective areas.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a medium-light switch with a smooth typing experience and a low-pitched, neutral sound profile, you would want to choose the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a pronounced tactile bump, a harmonious balance, and a neutral sound signature, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch would be the better choice for you. Consider your preference for bottom-out force, typing experience, and sound profile when deciding between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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