Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. KTT Hyacinth
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the KTT Hyacinth switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the KTT Hyacinth mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Cloudy Shadow is praised for its bouncy feel and neutral sound signature, making it a great choice for those who prefer a balanced typing experience with a 63.5g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the Hyacinth switches stand out for their 3.5mm travel distance, aiming to provide tactile feedback and user comfort without a hard bottoming-out experience. While the Cloudy Shadow is categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Mild', 'Neutral', the Hyacinth is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Silky', 'Subtle'. Both switches have their own strengths and weaknesses, but ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences. 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
56g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Spring
22mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the KTT Hyacinth, it is evident that they both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, making it ideal for switches that prioritize clarity and resonance. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. Therefore, users can expect a similar sound experience from both the Cloudy Shadow and the Hyacinth switches when it comes to their polycarbonate top housing.
On the other hand, the bottom housing of both switches differs as the Cloudy Shadow features nylon while the Hyacinth utilizes polycarbonate. Nylon is recognized for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of the Cloudy Shadow switch influences the bottom-out sound and feel, providing a more rounded typing experience. Conversely, the Hyacinth's polycarbonate bottom housing may result in a different sound profile during typing, potentially offering a crisper and sharper response compared to nylon.
Overall, while the top housing of both the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the KTT Hyacinth shares similarities in material and sound characteristics, their bottom housing differs in material and impact on the typing experience. Users who prefer a deeper and fuller sound profile may lean towards the Cloudy Shadow with its nylon bottom housing, while those seeking a crisper and sharper typing experience may find the Hyacinth's polycarbonate bottom housing more appealing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel during typing.
Weight
In comparing the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the KTT Hyacinth linear switch, it is clear that their actuation and bottom out forces differ significantly. The Cloudy Shadow has an actuation force of None grams, making it lighter in terms of initial pressure needed to register a keystroke, while the Hyacinth requires 45 grams, indicating a slightly heavier touch. When it comes to bottom out force, the Cloudy Shadow demands 63.5 grams, falling on the medium-heavy side, whereas the Hyacinth only requires 56 grams, placing it in the medium-light category. Therefore, users looking for a lighter and easier keystroke may prefer the Hyacinth, while those desiring a more substantial and tactile typing experience may lean towards the Cloudy Shadow. Ultimately, the different forces of these switches cater to a variety of preferences and typing styles.
Travel distance
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the KTT Hyacinth linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches will provide similar results as they offer the same experience. Neither switch is shorter or longer in terms of travel distance, making them comparable in this aspect.
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 KTT Hyacinth has an MSRP of $4.03 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hyacinth for $3.75.
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, both the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the KTT Hyacinth switches offer a neutral sound profile, providing a moderate and balanced auditory experience suitable for various typing environments. The Cloudy Shadow's low-pitched sound adds a bass-heavy and mellow tone, while the Hyacinth's sound also falls in the neutral category. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches in terms of sound may come down to personal preference and the overall setup of the keyboard.
Moving on to feel, the Cloudy Shadow switch offers a mild typing experience, striking a balance between gentle keystrokes and approachable sound levels. On the other hand, the Hyacinth switch is described as silky and subtle, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience with gentle resistance and minimal sound resonance. Both switches aim to offer a comfortable typing feel without compromising on tactile feedback. Depending on the user's preference for the level of smoothness and resistance in their typing experience, either switch could be a suitable choice.
In conclusion, both the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the KTT Hyacinth linear switch offer comparable qualities in terms of sound and feel, providing users with a balanced and comfortable typing experience. While the Cloudy Shadow emphasizes a low-pitched sound and mild feel, the Hyacinth focuses on a silky smooth feel and subtle typing resistance. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on the user's personal preferences regarding sound tone, typing smoothness, and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the KTT Hyacinth linear switch, it all comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom-out force and a bouncy typing experience with a neutral sound profile, then the Cloudy Shadow may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom-out force, a smoother typing experience with a subtle sound profile, and a 3.5mm travel distance for a more comfortable typing feel, then the Hyacinth could be the better option for your needs. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics geared towards providing a balanced typing experience, so it's important to consider what factors are most important to you when making your decision.
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