Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. TTC Flame Red
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the TTC Flame Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the TTC Flame Red mechanical keyboard switches, there are a few key differences to consider. The Cloudy Shadow linear switches offer a bouncy feel and neutral sound signature, making them ideal for those who prefer a balanced typing experience with a 63.5g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the Flame Red linear switches are favored for their visually appealing light diffuser, perfect for those with backlit RGB keyboards. When typing on the Flame Reds, users can expect a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile. 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
54g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Spring
24.5mm long spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and TTC Flame Red, one can see a distinct difference in the material used for the top housing. The Cloudy Shadow utilizes polycarbonate, while the Flame Red uses nylon. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, making it ideal for RGB lighting. On the other hand, nylon in the Flame Red results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, with a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This contrast in material leads to a difference in the overall sound experience of typing on these switches.
Moving on to the bottom housing of these switches, both the Cloudy Shadow and Flame Red use nylon. This material is consistent among the two switches, providing a similar deep and full sound profile when typing. The softness of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Despite the difference in the top housing material, the nylon bottom housing ensures that both switches deliver a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile and overall feel.
It is interesting to note how the choice of housing material impacts the overall sound and feel of a mechanical switch. While the Cloudy Shadow and Flame Red may vary in their top housing material, the use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures a consistency in the typing experience. The split between the qualities of the top and bottom housing results in distinct sound profiles when pressing down and letting go of a key. Whether using polycarbonate or nylon, each housing material brings its unique characteristics to the switch, ultimately shaping the user's typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the TTC Flame Red linear switch, it is evident that there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Cloudy Shadow has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which is considered medium-heavy, while its actuation force is unknown. On the other hand, the Flame Red has a bottom out force of 54 grams, categorized as medium-light, and an actuation force of 45 grams. This makes the Flame Red lighter in terms of actuation force compared to the Cloudy Shadow. When it comes to preferences, those who prefer a stronger push feel may lean towards the Cloudy Shadow, while individuals who enjoy a lighter typing experience may opt for the Flame Red. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal typing preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it slightly shorter than the TTC Flame Red linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. While both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, the Cloudy Shadow offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance. Gamers looking for a faster keypress may prefer the Cloudy Shadow, while those seeking a more substantial keypress may opt for the Flame Red. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the specific feel each individual user is looking for in a keyboard switch.
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 TTC Flame Red has an MSRP of $7.29 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flame Red for $4.38.
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
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow and TTC Flame Red switches both offer a neutral sound profile suitable for most users, with the Cloudy Shadow having a low-pitched sound and the Flame Red having a bit of a clacky sound. The Cloudy Shadow provides a bouncy feel due to its extended springs, while the Flame Red offers a weighty smoothness. Both switches are described as mild, providing a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. While the Cloudy Shadow is known for its balanced typing experience with a 63.5g bottom-out force, the Flame Red stands out visually with its dazzling light diffuser, making it the ideal choice for backlit, RGB keyboards.
In conclusion, both the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and TTC Flame Red switches offer similar qualities in terms of sound and feel, providing neutral sound profiles and mild typing experiences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of visual aesthetics and specific typing preferences. Regardless of the choice made, both switches are sure to provide a high-quality typing experience for users looking for linear switches with a balanced feel and sound.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the TTC Flame Red linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a balanced typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force of 63.5 grams, as well as a neutral sound signature and bouncy feel, then the Cloudy Shadow may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a medium-light bottom out force of 54 grams, dazzling light diffuser for RGB keyboards, weighty smoothness, and clacky sound profile, then the Flame Red switch would be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prefer a more bass-heavy and mellow tone with a neutral switch like the Cloudy Shadow, or if you prefer the versatility and polished smoothness of the Flame Red switch. Consider these factors to determine which switch aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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