Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch stand out as competitive options. The Cloudy Shadow 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 Hyacinth V2 is recognized for its crisp top-out sound and deep 'clack', offering a satisfying acoustic experience for enthusiasts. While the Cloudy Shadow focuses on a mild and neutral typing feel, the Hyacinth V2 emphasizes a clacky and creamy sound profile. Both switches bring unique qualities to the table, catering to different preferences and needs. 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
52g
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
Single-stage 22mm Korean spring
Housing materials
Both the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 use polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which creates a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches. While both switches share this feature, the individual design and construction may still produce unique sound profiles.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Cloudy Shadow and the Hyacinth V2 utilize nylon, a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This material choice impacts the overall typing experience, as the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Despite using the same material for the bottom housing, subtle differences in design and construction can still lead to variations in sound and feel between the two switches.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 plays a significant role in shaping the sound profile and typing experience of each switch. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharper sound and nylon bottom housings for a fuller sound, the individual design and implementation of these materials may result in nuanced differences in sound and feel. Understanding how each housing material contributes to the overall typing experience can help users make informed decisions when selecting a switch that best suits their preferences.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch reveals some interesting differences. The Cloudy Shadow has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it heavier than the Hyacinth V2 which bottoms out at 52 grams. The actuation force of the Cloudy Shadow is unknown, while the Hyacinth V2 has an actuation force of 45 grams, making it lighter than the Cloudy Shadow in this aspect. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Hyacinth V2 would be the better choice, as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out. However, for those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel, the Cloudy Shadow with its heavier bottom out force may be preferred. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in typing experience.
Travel distance
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making them equal in this aspect. The travel distance is the same for both switches, meaning that users can expect similar results in terms of key press feeling and actuation. The design of both switches allows for a consistent typing experience, with a smooth and linear keystroke from top to bottom. Overall, whether you choose the Aflion Cloudy Shadow or the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2, you can expect a similar travel distance and typing experience.
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 HMX Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 for $2.91.
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 known for its low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a soothing typing experience that is suitable for a wide range of users. On the other hand, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch offers a clacky sound that is sharp, bright, and percussive, giving users a more distinctive auditory feedback. Both switches offer unique sound qualities that cater to different preferences, with the Cloudy Shadow leaning towards a more neutral tone while the Hyacinth V2 delivers a more pronounced and satisfying clack.
In terms of feel, the Cloudy Shadow linear switch offers a mild typing experience that falls into a safe middle-ground zone, making it approachable to a wide range of users. Conversely, the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch provides a creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience, ensuring a smooth and effortless keystroke with enhanced responsiveness. While the Cloudy Shadow focuses on a gentle typing feel, the Hyacinth V2 offers a luxurious and refined touch that elevates the overall typing experience.
In conclusion, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switches both bring unique qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel. While the Cloudy Shadow excels in providing a neutral and mild typing experience with a low-pitched sound, the Hyacinth V2 stands out for its clacky sound profile and creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy feel. Depending on individual preferences, users can choose between the balanced and soothing Cloudy Shadow or the more audibly dynamic and luxurious Hyacinth V2 for a tailored typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer exceptional performance and innovation that cater to different tastes in the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Sillyworks Hyacinth V2 linear switch, the choice ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom-out force and a neutral sound profile with a bouncy feel, the Cloudy Shadow may be the best option for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a lighter bottom-out force and a distinct, clacky sound with a creamy, frictionless feel, the Hyacinth V2 may be more suited to your taste. Consider factors such as sound, feel, and your typing experience to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community.
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