Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. TTC Gold Silver
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the TTC Gold Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the TTC Gold Silver linear switch. The Cloudy Shadow is known for its balanced typing experience, featuring a neutral sound signature and bouncy feel thanks to extended springs. With a 63.5g bottom-out force, it reflects the quality and innovation Aflion brings to the market. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Silver is praised for its rapid responsiveness, providing a swift and solid bottom-out with each keystroke. This switch offers a smooth journey from press to bottoming out, harmonized by a resonant sound signature. When deciding between the two, individuals may favor the Cloudy Shadow for its balance and feel, while the Gold Silver may appeal to those seeking speed and precision. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
18mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the TTC Gold Silver, both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. This material choice in both switches creates a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisp sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal. The similarities in the top housing material between the two switches suggest that users can expect similar sound profiles and visual effects when using either the Cloudy Shadow or the Gold Silver.
However, where the two switches differ is in their choice of bottom housing material. The Cloudy Shadow features a nylon bottom housing, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound experience compared to the sharper sound created by polycarbonate top housings. On the other hand, the Gold Silver also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, offering similar acoustic characteristics that impact the typing experience. Despite this difference in bottom housing material, users of both switches can anticipate a unique tactile and auditory experience based on the combination of top and bottom housing materials.
The division of housing materials in switches plays a crucial role in the overall typing experience. The bottom housing material influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing material affects the sound when a key is released. With the Cloudy Shadow and the Gold Silver utilizing different bottom housing materials but sharing the same top housing material, users can expect variations in sound profiles and tactile feedback based on how the two materials interact. Whether experiencing the deeper sound of nylon in the Cloudy Shadow or the crisp sound of polycarbonate in the Gold Silver, both switches offer a distinct typing experience that caters to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the TTC Gold Silver linear switch, it is clear that they have significant differences. The Cloudy Shadow has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch in terms of the force needed to press all the way down. In contrast, the Gold Silver has an actuation force of 45 grams, indicating that it requires less force to trigger a keystroke compared to the Cloudy Shadow. Both switches have one force that is unknown, but based on the available information, it can be inferred that the Cloudy Shadow is the heavier switch in terms of bottom out force. This means that the Cloudy Shadow may be more suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel, while the Gold Silver may be ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of use. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and TTC Gold Silver linear switch both have the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, users will experience the same level of travel distance. Both switches offer consistent and precise keystrokes, making them ideal choices for those who prefer a shorter travel distance in their keyboards. With the same travel distance, users can expect similar results in terms of typing experience and feedback when using either the Aflion Cloudy Shadow or TTC Gold Silver switches.
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 Silver 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 Silver 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 is characterized by a low-pitched and neutral tone, offering a bass-heavy and mellow sound suitable for various settings. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Silver linear switch is known for its thocky, low-pitched, and neutral sound profile, providing a deep, rich, and satisfying tone with every keystroke. While both switches feature a neutral sound signature, the Gold Silver switch may offer a slightly more pronounced and resonant sound due to its design.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch is described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that falls in the middle-ground zone, making it approachable to most users. Conversely, the TTC Gold Silver linear switch is characterized by its polished and silky feel, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and minimal resistance during key presses. Additionally, the Gold Silver switch offers a subtle resistance and sound signature, making it suitable for shared spaces where noise may be a concern.
Overall, both the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and TTC Gold Silver linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Cloudy Shadow provides a balanced and bouncy typing experience with a neutral and low-pitched sound, the Gold Silver switch emphasizes rapid responsiveness with a thocky and polished feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound tone and typing feel, users can choose between the Cloudy Shadow for a mellower experience or the Gold Silver for a more pronounced and smooth typing feel. Ultimately, both switches offer quality craftsmanship and innovation that cater to different typing preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for newcomers and enthusiasts alike.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the TTC Gold Silver linear switch, consider your preferences and typing style. If you value a balanced typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom-out force and a neutral sound signature, the Cloudy Shadow may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize rapid responsiveness, shortened travel distance, and a thocky, low-pitched sound profile, the Gold Silver switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, the Cloudy Shadow offers a bouncy feel with extended springs, while the Gold Silver provides a seamless blend of speed, sound, and fluidity in every keystroke. Whichever switch you choose, both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing needs.
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