Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. TTC Flaming Purple
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the TTC Flaming Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two options that stand out are the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the TTC Flaming Purple, both of which are linear switches. The Cloudy Shadow from Aflion is praised for its balanced typing experience, neutral sound signature, and bouncy feel thanks to its extended springs, providing a 63.5g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the Flaming Purple from TTC is known for its resonant character and slightly bassier sound profile, offering a poppy undertone with a bottom-out force of just 47g for swift and effortless typing. While both switches have their unique qualities that may appeal to different preferences, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and specific 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
42g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
47g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the TTC Flaming Purple, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making them ideal for those who prefer a more distinct typing experience. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting effects to shine through, enhancing the overall aesthetics of the switches. Therefore, users can expect similar sound characteristics and visual appeal from both the Cloudy Shadow and Flaming Purple switches due to their shared polycarbonate top housings.
In terms of bottom housing material, both the Cloudy Shadow and Flaming Purple switches feature nylon. This classic switch housing material offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, giving typists a more satisfying typing experience. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that some users may prefer. By using nylon for the bottom housing, both switches prioritize creating a tactile and immersive typing experience, ensuring users can appreciate the unique sound qualities each switch brings to the table.
Overall, while the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and TTC Flaming Purple switches may differ in appearance and branding, their choice of housing materials plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and feel of the switches. With polycarbonate top housings for a crisper sound and nylon bottom housings for a fuller sound, both switches offer a well-rounded typing experience that caters to different preferences. Whether opting for the Cloudy Shadow or the Flaming Purple, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with distinct sound profiles and visual appeal.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch to the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch, a noticeable difference in weight is evident. The Cloudy Shadow linear switch has an actuation force of None grams, making it unknown, and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. In contrast, the Flaming Purple linear switch has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 47 grams, making it lighter compared to the Cloudy Shadow. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Flaming Purple switch more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Cloudy Shadow switch, with its heavier bottom out force, offers a more substantial typing feel for users who prefer a stronger push. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and the desired weight of the switches.
Travel distance
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter end of the spectrum when it comes to travel distance, with the Cloudy Shadow being slightly shorter than the Flaming Purple. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Cloudy Shadow due to its slightly shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress experience may opt for the Flaming Purple. Overall, both switches offer relatively short travel distances compared to more traditional options, providing gamers with a more responsive typing or gaming experience.
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 Flaming Purple has an MSRP of $8.30 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flaming Purple for $4.30.
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
In terms of sound, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a mellow and balanced tone that is suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch is characterized by a bassy and resonant sound, adding a poppy undertone that enhances the auditory experience with each keystroke. Both switches deliver unique sound signatures, with the Cloudy Shadow leaning towards a more neutral tone while the Flaming Purple offers a slightly bassier and resonant sound.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch is described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that falls within a safe middle-ground zone, making it approachable for most users. In contrast, the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch is noted for its feathery and easy-to-press nature, providing a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue and offers a comfortable typing experience for extended sessions. Additionally, the Flaming Purple is described as silky, further enhancing the smoothness of the typing feel and minimizing resistance during key presses.
Overall, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and TTC Flaming Purple linear switches each bring unique qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences and typing styles. While the Cloudy Shadow offers a neutral and mild typing experience with a balanced sound profile, the Flaming Purple stands out with its bassier and resonant sound, as well as its feathery and easy-to-press feel. Ultimately, both switches provide engaging typing experiences, and choosing between them would depend on individual preferences for sound and typing feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch, you should consider your preference for bottom-out force and auditory experience. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom-out force for a more deliberate typing experience, the Cloudy Shadow with its 63.5g force would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch and a bassier, resonant sound profile, the Flaming Purple with its 47g force would be more suited to your typing style. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking to achieve.
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