Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. TTC Gold Brown
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the TTC Gold Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch offer unique features catered to different preferences. The Cloudy Shadow linear switch is renowned for its neutral sound signature and bouncy feel, thanks to the extended springs that provide a balanced typing experience with a 63.5g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the Gold Brown tactile switch is all about balance, offering a slight, satisfying bump and a moderate weightiness, with a rounded sound profile that is softer than most switches. While the Cloudy Shadow provides a more mild and neutral typing experience, the Gold Brown offers a buttery, accented, and polished feel. 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
63g
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
Standard
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the TTC Gold Brown, both switches use polycarbonate for their top housing. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. Both switches utilize the translucency of polycarbonate, making it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. The similarity in housing material between the two switches suggests that users can expect similar sound profiles and aesthetic effects when using either the Cloudy Shadow or the Gold Brown.
On the other hand, the Cloudy Shadow features a nylon bottom housing, while the Gold Brown also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. As a result, typing on switches with nylon bottom housings can produce a duller and rounder sound. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches ensures that users will experience a consistent typing feel and sound in this aspect, regardless of whether they choose the Cloudy Shadow or the Gold Brown.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings in both the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the TTC Gold Brown allows users to enjoy a mix of sharp, crisp sound profiles and deep, full sound profiles. While the top housing influences the sound when pressing and releasing a key, the bottom housing has a greater impact on the sound and feel at the point of bottoming out. Whether users prefer a clearer and more resonant sound or a deeper and fuller sound, both switches offer a unique typing experience that caters to different preferences.
Weight
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch both have a bottom out force of 63.5 grams and 63 grams respectively, making them similar in terms of the force needed to fully depress the key. However, the Cloudy Shadow has an actuation force of None grams, while the Gold Brown has an actuation force of 55 grams. This means that the Gold Brown switch requires a slightly lighter touch to register a keystroke compared to the Cloudy Shadow. For users who prefer a lighter actuation force for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Gold Brown may be the better choice. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a bit more resistance may find the Cloudy Shadow to be more suited to their preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5mm, making it slightly shorter than the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4mm. The difference in travel distance may not seem significant, but it can impact the typing or gaming experience for some users. Those who prefer faster response times may opt for the Cloudy Shadow with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the Gold Brown switch with its longer travel distance. Both switches offer a different tactile experience due to their travel distances, so choosing between them ultimately depends on personal preference.
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 Gold Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown for $3.28.
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, both the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and TTC Gold Brown switches are described as having a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for a variety of environments and user preferences. The Cloudy Shadow offers a low-pitched tone, providing a bass-heavy and mellow sound. On the other hand, the Gold Brown switch has a rounded sound profile that is generally softer than most switches without being completely silent. Depending on the choice of keyboard and keycaps, users can expect a pleasant typing experience with either switch.
In terms of feel, both switches are described as offering a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users. The Cloudy Shadow's bouncy feel is attributed to its extended springs, providing a balanced typing experience with a 63.5g bottom-out force. The Gold Brown switch, on the other hand, is noted for its buttery and accented tactile feel, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with a moderate weightiness. Additionally, the polished finish of the Gold Brown switch results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, further enhancing the typing experience.
In conclusion, while the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and TTC Gold Brown tactile switch may differ in some subjective qualities such as sound pitch and tactile feedback, both switches offer a balanced and enjoyable typing experience. Users can expect a neutral sound profile and a mild typing experience with either switch, making them suitable for a wide range of applications. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom-out force with a bouncy feel and neutral sound signature, then the Cloudy Shadow may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a slight bump, moderate weightiness, and a balanced sound profile, then the Gold Brown could be more suited to your preferences. Consider your typing habits and preferences to determine which switch will provide the best typing experience for you.
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