Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow is a linear switch that has gained rapid traction in the industry for its neutral sound signature and bouncy feel, thanks to the extended springs. With a balanced typing experience and a 63.5g bottom-out force, this switch reflects the quality and innovation that Aflion brings to the market. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro is a tactile switch known for its higher-pitched sound profile and satisfying tactile bump, offering a delightful typing experience for keyboard enthusiasts. The Cloudy Shadow is categorized as low-pitched, mild, and neutral, while the V3 Lavender Purple Pro is categorized as accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished. When considering which switch to choose, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style; 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
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
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
20mm
Housing materials
Both the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. However, while the top housings are similar in material and sound characteristics, the nylon bottom housings of both switches differ slightly. Nylon bottom housings are known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics.
The use of different materials for the bottom housings of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro leads to distinct typing experiences. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings will result in a deeper and fuller sound profile, as the softer plastic absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the top housing material will have a more significant impact on the sound when keys are released. The split between the qualities brought by the top and bottom housings results in a unique typing experience for each switch, with the material of the housing influencing the sound and feel of key presses and releases.
In conclusion, while both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and clear sound profile, the differences in the nylon bottom housings of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro result in unique typing experiences. The Aflion Cloudy Shadow's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro's nylon bottom housing offers a slightly different typing experience with its own characteristics. The choice of housing materials in mechanical switches plays a crucial role in the overall sound and feel of the typing experience and can significantly impact user preferences.
Weight
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch have notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Cloudy Shadow has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it medium-heavy, while the V3 Lavender Purple Pro has a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. The actuation force of the Cloudy Shadow is unknown, while the V3 Lavender Purple Pro requires 45 grams to register a keystroke. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro would be more suitable. On the other hand, individuals looking for a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Cloudy Shadow. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro has a longer travel distance compared to the Cloudy Shadow. The difference of 0.3 mm may not seem like much, but it can make a noticeable impact on the feel and response of the switch. Those who prefer a more responsive feel may opt for the shorter travel distance of the Cloudy Shadow, while those who enjoy a deeper press may lean towards the V3 Lavender Purple Pro. Both switches offer their own unique experiences based on their travel distances, so ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preference and typing style.
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 Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro has an MSRP of $3.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Lavender Purple Pro for $2.20.
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
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch is known for its low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for both beginners and advanced users. The extended springs in these switches give them a bouncy feel, offering a balanced typing experience with a 63.5g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch has a higher-pitched sound profile and a satisfying tactile bump, contributing to a delightful typing experience. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches are described as accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished, providing a medium tactile feedback that is not overwhelming or subtle.
In conclusion, both the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Cloudy Shadow is best suited for those looking for a more neutral sound and a bouncy typing experience, while the Lavender Purple Pro stands out for its higher-pitched sound and prominent tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, as both switches offer high-quality options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, you should consider your preference for bottom-out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom-out force for a more substantial typing experience, the Cloudy Shadow with its 63.5g force may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom-out force for a more effortless typing experience, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro with its 55g force would be a great choice. Additionally, if you prefer a low-pitched and neutral sound profile with a mild feel, the Cloudy Shadow would suit your preferences. Conversely, if you prefer a higher-pitched sound profile with accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished feel, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro would be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking to achieve.
Mentioned in this article
