Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. KTT F2
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the KTT F2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the KTT F2 are both linear mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique features for users seeking a more personalized typing experience. The Cloudy Shadow from Aflion is known for its balanced typing feel, neutral sound signature, and bouncy feel due to extended springs, making it a popular choice for those who appreciate quality and innovation. On the other hand, the KTT F2 stands out with its distinct hollow sound signature and lightly textured feel, contributing to a tactile nuance with each keystroke. While the Cloudy Shadow offers a 63.5g bottom-out force, the F2 provides a medium-light weightiness for a comfortable typing experience. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the KTT F2 both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiff plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. However, where the Cloudy Shadow stands out is in its nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound compared to polycarbonate.
Despite both switches having polycarbonate top housings, their bottom housings set them apart in sound and feel. While the F2 retains a polycarbonate bottom housing for a sharp and crisp sound profile, the Cloudy Shadow's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound experience. The split in housing materials results in different qualities being felt when pressing down on a key - the bottom housing plays a more significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound upon key release. This distinction in housing materials allows for a unique typing experience with each switch.
In conclusion, while both the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the KTT F2 share polycarbonate top housings for sharp and clear sound profiles, their bottom housings differ in material and sound characteristics. The Cloudy Shadow's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, while the F2's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains a sharper sound profile. The split in housing materials between the top and bottom of the switch allows for a varied typing experience, with distinct sound profiles felt during key press and release. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the sound and feel preferences of the user.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the KTT F2 linear switch, it is evident that the Cloudy Shadow has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which is heavier than the F2's 53 grams. The actuation force of the F2 is also lighter at 43 grams compared to the Cloudy Shadow's unspecified force. The Cloudy Shadow offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force, while the F2 provides a lighter touch for longer typing sessions. Both switches offer different experiences based on their force requirements, with the Cloudy Shadow being on the heavier side and the F2 leaning towards a lighter touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on the user's preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the KTT F2 linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing their travel distances, both switches provide a consistent and precise typing experience due to their identical key travel distance. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of key response and tactile feedback when typing on either switch. Ultimately, whether choosing the Aflion Cloudy Shadow or the KTT F2 switch, users can enjoy the same level of typing comfort and efficiency due to their shared travel distance of 3.5 mm.
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 KTT F2 comes in at $3.90 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 Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switches are known for their low-pitched and neutral sound profile, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the KTT F2 linear switches have a distinct hollow and subdued sound signature, providing a dampened and more subtle sound when pressed. It ultimately comes down to personal preference, with the Cloudy Shadow offering a more balanced and neutral sound, while the F2 provides a unique and subdued auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the Cloudy Shadow linear switches are described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. On the other hand, the KTT F2 linear switches are noted for their feathery and subtle feel, providing an exceptionally light press and gentle resistance that is comfortable for extended typing sessions. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, but the F2 may be more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch and reduced finger fatigue.
Overall, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switches and the KTT F2 linear switches each have their unique characteristics when it comes to sound and feel. The Cloudy Shadow provides a more neutral sound and gentle typing experience, while the F2 offers a distinct hollow sound and feathery feel. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and typing feel, either switch can provide a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience. Ultimately, it is recommended to test out both switches to see which one suits your preferences and typing style best.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the KTT F2 linear switches, consider the factors of bottom-out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom-out force and a bouncy typing experience with a neutral sound signature, the Cloudy Shadow may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom-out force with a distinct hollow sound and a lightly textured typing feel, the F2 switches might be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference and which characteristics align best with your typing style and preferences.
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