Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. Bsun Kiki Red
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Bsun Kiki Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the BSUN Kiki Red mechanical keyboard switches, both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Cloudy Shadow's linear switches are praised for their neutral sound signature and bouncy feel, thanks to extended springs and a 63.5g bottom-out force, providing a balanced typing experience. On the other hand, the Kiki Red linear switches are known for their high-pitched, clacky nuance and smooth actuation due to the all-POM housings and Ly stems, offering a subtle auditory feedback and finesse in performance. Each switch has its own strengths and characteristics that appeal to different users, whether you prefer a more neutral feel with the Cloudy Shadow or a clacky and creamy experience with the Kiki Red. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Spring
20.4mm single-stage nickel-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Bsun Kiki Red, we can see that both switches have unique attributes based on the materials used. The Cloudy Shadow features a polycarbonate top housing, which offers a sharper, crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, while the Kiki Red's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. This contrast in sound profiles showcases how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience. While both materials offer distinct sound qualities, users may prefer one over the other based on their sound preferences.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the Cloudy Shadow's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound. In comparison, the Kiki Red's POM bottom housing also creates a pleasing and unique sound that is deeper and relatively more muted. Despite the difference in materials, both switches offer a similar sound experience in terms of depth and tone. The choice between nylon and POM bottom housings may come down to personal preference and how the sound profile complements the overall typing feel desired by the user.
When considering the impact of housing materials on the overall typing sound and feel, it's important to note how the top and bottom housings interact to create a holistic experience. The qualities of the bottom housing, whether nylon or POM, will contribute more to the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. Conversely, the top housing material, whether polycarbonate or POM, will have a more significant impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. Understanding how these materials work together can help users make an informed decision when choosing between switches like the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Bsun Kiki Red based on their desired typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Cloudy Shadow has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it heavier than the Kiki Red, which has a bottom out force of 50 grams. The actuation force of the Cloudy Shadow is not specified, while the Kiki Red has an actuation force of 42 grams. This makes the Kiki Red lighter in terms of actuation force compared to the Cloudy Shadow. Those who prefer lighter switches may find the Kiki Red more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Cloudy Shadow for its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. In terms of comparison, the Cloudy Shadow is the shorter option out of the two. While the difference in travel distance between the two switches is minimal, those who prefer a slightly shallower key press may lean towards the Cloudy Shadow, while those who enjoy a bit more depth in their keystrokes may opt for the Kiki Red. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular among gamers for quicker response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing or gaming experience desired.
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 Bsun Kiki Red has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Kiki Red for $3.83.
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 provides a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch offers a clacky and sharp sound when pressed, adding a crisp and percussive element to the typing experience. Both switches provide distinct sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the Cloudy Shadow offering a more mellow tone and the Kiki Red delivering a brighter and more distinct sound.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch is described as providing a mild and balanced typing experience, offering a safe and approachable feel for most users. On the other hand, the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch offers a creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, and easy-to-press typing experience, making it a versatile choice for those seeking a smooth and responsive feel while typing. Both switches provide unique tactile qualities that enhance the typing experience in different ways, with the Cloudy Shadow offering a gentle and moderate feel and the Kiki Red delivering a smoother and more refined sensation.
Taking into consideration the sound and feel characteristics of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch, it is evident that both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Cloudy Shadow provides a low-pitched and mild typing experience, the Kiki Red offers a clacky and creamy feel, making them suitable for users seeking specific sound and feel profiles. Overall, both switches bring innovation and quality to the mechanical keyboard market, ensuring that users can find a switch that meets their unique preferences and typing styles.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a balanced typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom-out force, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch would be a great choice for you. The Cloudy Shadow's neutral sound signature and bouncy feel provide a quality and innovative typing experience that may suit your preferences. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom-out force and enjoy a high-pitched, clacky nuance in your typing sounds, the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch might be the better option for you. With a focus on subtlety in auditory feedback and finesse in performance, the Kiki Red offers a finely-tuned typing experience that enthusiasts may appreciate. Ultimately, your decision between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and bottom-out force.
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