Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. TTC Gold Red Pro
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the TTC Gold Red Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Aflion's Cloudy Shadow linear switch and TTC's Gold Red Pro linear switch both offer unique features and advantages for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Cloudy Shadow stands out 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 Red Pro showcases versatility with its ease of press and adaptability to various user preferences and settings. While the Cloudy Shadow is praised for its innovation and quality, the Gold Red Pro shines through its seamless typing experience and neutral sound signature. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
NPI
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
18.5mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the TTC Gold Red Pro, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the polycarbonate plastic. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Cloudy Shadow utilizes nylon which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Gold Red Pro's nylon bottom housing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile.
While both the Cloudy Shadow and the Gold Red Pro share similarities in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing, they differ in their choice of material for the bottom housing. The Cloudy Shadow's nylon bottom housing leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, whereas the Gold Red Pro's nylon bottom housing offers a similar experience. However, the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel may vary between the two switches. Ultimately, the combination of different housing materials in a switch affects the overall sound and feel when typing, with each material bringing its own distinct qualities to the table.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials for a switch plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and feel of typing on that switch. Both the Cloudy Shadow and the Gold Red Pro demonstrate the importance of materials like polycarbonate and nylon in creating a unique typing experience. While similarities exist between the two switches in terms of their polycarbonate top housing, differences arise in the utilization of nylon for the bottom housing. Understanding the impact of different housing materials on typing sound and feel can help users make informed decisions when selecting a switch that aligns with their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch, it is clear that they offer different weight options for users. The Cloudy Shadow has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which is medium-heavy, while its actuation force is not specified. In contrast, the Gold Red Pro has an actuation force of 43 grams, but its bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Gold Red Pro is lighter in terms of actuation force compared to the Cloudy Shadow.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience to avoid fatigue during long typing sessions or gaming sessions, the Gold Red Pro may be the better choice. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may lean towards the Cloudy Shadow. Both switches offer unique benefits depending on the user's preferences, with the Gold Red Pro providing a lighter touch and the Cloudy Shadow offering a heavier feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Gold Red Pro has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Cloudy Shadow. Both switches fall within the shorter range of travel distances, making them ideal for those seeking faster response times, such as gamers. However, if you prefer a bit more depth and feedback when pressing down on a key, you may prefer the slightly longer travel distance of the Gold Red Pro. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing or gaming experience you are looking for.
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 Red Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red Pro for $2.90.
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 switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, giving it a more bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for a variety of environments. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch provides a thocky, low-pitched, and neutral sound, resulting in a deep, rich, and satisfying sound upon activation. Both switches offer a moderate sound profile that is adaptable to different preferences, making them versatile options for any user. With these similarities in sound signature, users can expect comparable results in terms of auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch is characterized as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. In contrast, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch boasts a polished and silky feel, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with minimal resistance. Both switches aim to deliver a comfortable typing feel, with the Cloudy Shadow offering a safe middle-ground zone and the Gold Red Pro prioritizing smooth key travel and reduced friction. While the tactile feedback may vary slightly between the two switches, users can still expect a pleasant typing experience with either option.
Overall, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch each bring unique qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel. While the Cloudy Shadow offers a bouncy feel and low-pitched sound, the Gold Red Pro provides a polished typing experience with a thocky sound profile. Users looking for a balanced typing experience with a neutral sound signature may find both switches appealing, as they offer versatility and adaptability in various settings. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience that each user is seeking.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch, consider your preferences and typing needs. If you value a medium-heavy bottom-out force and a bouncy feel with a neutral sound signature, the Cloudy Shadow might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize ease of press, versatility, and a neutral sound profile, the Gold Red Pro could be the better option. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles and environments, so ultimately, the decision comes down to what feels most comfortable and satisfying for you. Happy typing!
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