Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. TTC Gold Pink
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the TTC Gold Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the TTC Gold Pink stand out for their unique characteristics. The Cloudy Shadow linear switch by Aflion is praised for its bouncy feel and neutral sound signature, providing a balanced typing experience with a 63.5g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the Gold Pink linear switch by TTC is known for its incredibly light 37g actuation force, making it perfect for fast and effortless typing or gaming with a satisfyingly clacky sound. While the Cloudy Shadow offers a more traditional typing experience with a bit more resistance, the Gold Pink provides a buttery and feathery feel that may appeal to those seeking a lighter touch. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
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
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow and TTC Gold Pink both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. This material is commonly used in switches with clear housings for its translucency, making it ideal for RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the Cloudy Shadow's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Gold Pink's nylon bottom housing, which also absorbs more sound due to its softer nature.
While both the Cloudy Shadow and Gold Pink utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, the differences lie in their bottom housings. The Cloudy Shadow's nylon bottom housing provides a distinct sound profile that is deeper and fuller, while also absorbing more sound due to its softer plastic composition. Conversely, the Gold Pink's nylon bottom housing shares similar characteristics with the Cloudy Shadow, offering a rounder sound profile that is impacted by the softer material of the housing.
In terms of typing experience, the housing materials play a significant role in determining the overall sound profile of the switches. The qualities of the bottom housing material will be more pronounced during key presses, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. In contrast, the top housing material will have a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Both the Cloudy Shadow and Gold Pink offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials, providing users with different typing experiences based on their preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the TTC Gold Pink linear switch, it is evident that the Gold Pink switch is lighter overall. The Cloudy Shadow switch has an actuation force of None grams, indicating that the force required to trigger a keystroke is unknown, while its bottom out force is 63.5 grams, considered medium-heavy. On the other hand, the Gold Pink switch has a significantly lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, which is light in comparison. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended use, the Gold Pink switch would be the ideal choice. In contrast, the Cloudy Shadow switch would be more suitable for individuals who prefer a more substantial typing feel with a heavier push force. Ultimately, depending on personal preferences and typing habits, users can achieve similar results with either switch by selecting the appropriate actuation and bottom out forces that align with their typing style.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the TTC Gold Pink linear switch, we see that the Cloudy Shadow has a travel distance of 3.5mm, while the Gold Pink has a travel distance of 4mm. In this case, the Gold Pink has a longer travel distance compared to the Cloudy Shadow. The Cloudy Shadow may offer a slightly shorter travel distance which can appeal to those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Gold Pink with its longer travel distance may be preferred by those who enjoy a deeper and more substantial key press. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Gold Pink providing a slightly longer key press compared to the Cloudy Shadow. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Pink has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Pink for $4.28.
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
In terms of sound, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch is known for its low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Pink linear switch offers a clacky sound, providing a satisfying level of feedback with each keystroke. As sound can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, both switches offer distinct auditory experiences that cater to different preferences.
Moving on to 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. In contrast, the TTC Gold Pink linear switch is noted for its buttery, feathery, subtle, and polished attributes, delivering a smooth and effortless keystroke sensation while reducing finger fatigue. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences, with the Gold Pink switch emphasizing a light and fluid typing feel compared to the more balanced feel of the Cloudy Shadow switch.
Considering all the available information, it is evident that the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and TTC Gold Pink linear switches each offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Cloudy Shadow switch provides a more neutral and mild typing experience with a focus on balance, the Gold Pink switch excels in delivering a light and lively feel accompanied by a clacky sound. Depending on individual preferences for sound pitch, typing feedback, and tactile sensations, newcomers to mechanical keyboards can expect to achieve satisfying results with either switch based on their desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch or the TTC Gold Pink linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom-out force and a balanced typing experience with a bouncy feel, the Cloudy Shadow may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light bottom-out force and a fast, effortless typing experience with a satisfying clacky sound, the Gold Pink may be more suited to your needs. Both switches have their unique qualities and are designed to enhance your typing or gaming performance, so it's important to consider what characteristics are most important to you when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between the Cloudy Shadow and Gold Pink switches will depend on your individual preferences and typing requirements.
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