Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch. The Cloudy Shadow stands out for its neutral sound signature and bouncy feel, thanks to its extended springs and 63.5g bottom-out force, offering a balanced typing experience. On the other hand, the V3 Cream Blue Pro switches from Akko are praised for their distinct poppy and clacky sound profile, along with a smooth tactile sensation, making them an attractive choice for users on a budget. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different 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
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 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 spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro, both keyboards feature a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This makes it ideal for those looking for a clear and resonant sound from their switches. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visual appeal to the keyboards. The similarity in the top housing material ensures that users can expect a consistent sound profile and aesthetic experience from both keyboards.
One key point of differentiation between the two keyboards lies in their bottom housing materials. The Cloudy Shadow utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that can enhance typing experiences. Conversely, the V3 Cream Blue Pro also incorporates a nylon bottom housing, providing users with a similar typing experience characterized by a deep and full sound profile. Despite the slight variance in design, both keyboards offer a tactile typing experience that is influenced by the properties of the nylon bottom housing.
In conclusion, while the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro differ in their bottom housing materials, they share similar characteristics in their top housing materials. Both keyboards utilize polycarbonate top housings to create a sharp, clear sound profile that resonates well with users. The choice of materials for the bottom housing, whether nylon or another option, provides a unique typing experience that complements the overall design of each keyboard. Ultimately, users can expect a consistent level of quality and performance from both the Cloudy Shadow and the V3 Cream Blue Pro, making them both appealing options for keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch have differing actuation and bottom out forces. The Cloudy Shadow has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it medium-heavy, while its actuation force is unknown. In comparison, the V3 Cream Blue Pro has a lower actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, placing it in the medium-light category. The Cloudy Shadow provides a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force, ideal for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the V3 Cream Blue Pro offers a lighter typing experience, perfect for extended typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, slightly longer than the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. The Cloudy Shadow offers a bit more depth to its keypress compared to the V3 Cream Blue Pro, making it a good choice for those who prefer a slightly longer travel distance. However, for those who prefer a quicker and more responsive feel, the V3 Cream Blue Pro may be the better option. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific feel that the user is seeking in their keyboard.
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 Blue Pro has an MSRP of $2.88 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Blue Pro for $2.00.
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 is best characterized as having a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, offering a mellow tone with a moderate actuation force requirement that suits a wide range of users. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch is noted for its distinct poppy and clacky sound profile, providing a lively and audible feedback that is accompanied by a commendable level of smoothness. While the Cloudy Shadow offers a more subdued sound experience, the V3 Cream Blue Pro delivers a more vibrant and tactile auditory sensation, catering to users who enjoy a bit more pop in their typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch is described as providing a mild typing experience, offering a gentle and approachable feel that falls within a safe middle-ground zone. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch is characterized as accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished, providing a medium tactile feedback that is not overwhelming yet offers a prominent amount of tactility. With a spring-like rebound sensation and a smooth and refined finish, the V3 Cream Blue Pro switches offer a more dynamic and responsive typing feel compared to the mild and consistent experience of the Cloudy Shadow.
In conclusion, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Cloudy Shadow provides a neutral sound and mild typing experience, the V3 Cream Blue Pro delivers a poppy and tactile sound profile with a more dynamic and responsive typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on whether you prefer a more subdued and balanced typing experience or a vibrant and tactile feedback while typing.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom-out force and a neutral sound signature, the Cloudy Shadow may be the better choice for you. However, if you appreciate a medium-light bottom-out force, distinct poppy sound profile, and a creamy tactile sensation, then the V3 Cream Blue Pro could be the ideal switch for your typing needs. Consider your desired sound and feel characteristics, as well as the level of feedback and smoothness you prefer, when choosing between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so make sure to choose the one that aligns best with your own typing style.
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