Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. Akko V3 Cream Black Pro
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Cloudy Shadow is praised for its neutral sound signature and bouncy feel, thanks to extended springs, providing a balanced typing experience with a 63.5g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the V3 Cream Black Pro stands out for its poppy and clacky sound, smoothness, and affordability, making it an ideal choice for budget-conscious individuals seeking high-quality switches. While both switches offer distinctive features that appeal to different tastes, it's essential to delve deeper into their specifics to determine the best switch for your needs. 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
N/A
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Spring
20mm
Housing materials
Both the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. This material choice ensures a consistent and visually appealing experience for users of both keyboards.
In contrast, while the Cloudy Shadow features a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound profile, the V3 Cream Black Pro also opts for nylon in its bottom housing. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound when typing. This shared choice of material for the bottom housing suggests that both keyboards prioritize a more muffled and satisfying typing experience.
Despite the differences in their bottom housing material, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and Akko V3 Cream Black Pro offer a similar typing experience due to the shared polycarbonate top housing. This consistency in material ensures that both keyboards deliver a sharp and resonant sound profile when keys are pressed and released. With distinct qualities split between the top and bottom housings, users can expect a well-rounded tactile and auditory experience from both keyboards.
Weight
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch differ in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Cloudy Shadow has an actuation force of None grams, while the V3 Cream Black Pro has an actuation force of 55 grams. Both switches have a bottom out force in the medium-heavy range, with the Cloudy Shadow at 63.5 grams and the V3 Cream Black Pro at 65 grams. Therefore, the V3 Cream Black Pro is slightly lighter in terms of actuation force, but they both have a similar bottom out force. This means that users can expect a comparable typing experience in terms of the force needed to press the keys all the way down. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch, we can see that the Cloudy Shadow has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the V3 Cream Black Pro has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro, making it the longer of the two switches. This difference may result in a slightly different typing experience, with the Cloudy Shadow providing a bit more depth to each keystroke. However, both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular among gamers for their faster response times. Ultimately, both switches are similar enough in terms of travel distance that you can expect a comparable level of performance from either option.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Aflion Cloudy 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 Cloudy Shadow for $3.91.
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro has an MSRP of $3.77 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Black Pro for $2.70.
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 Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a mellow tone that is suitable for a variety of settings. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch produces a high-pitched sound that is sharp and crisp, perfect for those who prefer a more distinct auditory feedback. Ultimately, the sound preference between the two switches will come down to personal taste and the overall setup of the keyboard.
In terms of feel, the Cloudy Shadow switch offers a mild typing experience that is gentle and approachable to most users. With its bouncy feel from the extended springs, typists can enjoy a balanced and comfortable typing experience. On the other hand, the V3 Cream Black Pro switch provides a creamy and polished feel that is smooth and buttery, thanks to factory lubrication and refined materials. The snappy and bouncy feedback from these switches adds liveliness to each keystroke, making typing a pleasant and effortless task.
In conclusion, both the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel. While the Cloudy Shadow switch provides a neutral sound and mild typing experience, the V3 Cream Black Pro switch offers a distinct high-pitched sound and a creamy, polished feel. Choosing between the two switches will ultimately depend on individual preferences for sound profile, key feel, and overall typing experience. However, users can expect a high-quality typing experience with either switch, ensuring satisfying results regardless of the choice made.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch, you should consider a few key factors. If you prefer a neutral sound profile with a low-pitched tone and a bouncy typing feel, the Cloudy Shadow may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a high-pitched sound with a smooth and creamy typing experience that is also snappy and polished, the V3 Cream Black Pro could be the better option. Ultimately, it comes down to your personal preferences in sound, feel, and overall typing experience. So, take these aspects into account when making your decision to ensure you select the switch that best suits your needs and preferences.
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