Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. KTT Mallo
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the KTT Mallo switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch. The Cloudy Shadow is praised for its rapid rise in the industry, offering a balanced typing experience with a 63.5g bottom-out force and a neutral sound signature. On the other hand, the Mallo by KTT is known for its subtlety and finesse, providing a gentle tactile feedback and a medium-light typing feel, all while maintaining a neutral sound signature. Choosing between these switches may come down to personal preference - whether you prefer a bouncy linear switch or a more subtle tactile experience. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the KTT Mallo feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting. The similarities in the top housing material suggest that users can expect similar auditory experiences from both keyboards.
On the other hand, the Cloudy Shadow and the Mallo differ in their choice of bottom housing material. The Cloudy Shadow utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder auditory experience. The Mallo also features a nylon bottom housing, offering similar sound characteristics to the Cloudy Shadow. Despite the contrasting top housing materials, the consistent use of nylon in the bottom housing may provide a similar typing experience across both keyboards.
When comparing the two keyboards, it is evident that the choice of housing materials plays a significant role in the overall sound profile and typing experience. The split between the top and bottom housing materials allows for a nuanced auditory experience—the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. While both keyboards may have different top housing materials, the shared use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures a consistent deep and full sound profile when typing. Ultimately, the housing materials contribute to the overall tactile and auditory experience of each keyboard, shaping the user's interaction with the device.
Weight
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch have distinct differences in actuation and bottom out forces. The Cloudy Shadow has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it medium-heavy, while the Mallo has a bottom out force of 55 grams, classifying it as medium-light. Both switches have an unknown actuation force, but based on their bottom out forces, it can be assumed that the Cloudy Shadow would require a heavier actuation force compared to the Mallo. This difference in weight can cater to different preferences, with some users preferring a lighter actuation force for extended typing sessions or gaming, while others may opt for a heavier force for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the KTT Mallo tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Cloudy Shadow offers a quicker response time, making it more favorable for gamers who value speed and precision. On the other hand, the Mallo provides a slightly deeper key press, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. Both switches offer a different tactile experience, catering to different preferences based on travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for key travel distance.
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 Mallo has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mallo for $4.40.
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, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch is known for its low-pitched and neutral sound signature, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone that is not overpowering. On the other hand, the KTT Mallo tactile switch offers a more subdued and subtle sound, creating a dampened and gentle noise when pressed. Both switches have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various typing environments and preferences. Ultimately, the sound experience will also depend on factors such as the keyboard's build quality and keycap material used.
Moving onto the feel, the Cloudy Shadow linear switch is characterized by a mild typing experience, offering a gentle and approachable feel that falls into a safe middle-ground zone. In contrast, the KTT Mallo tactile switch provides a feathery and light typing feel, requiring minimal exertion from the fingers and reducing fatigue during extended typing sessions. The Mallo switch also features a subtle and stepped tactile feedback, allowing users to feel a slight pre-travel and/or post-travel sensation during keystrokes. Both switches aim to strike a balance between comfort and typing efficiency, catering to different preferences and typing styles.
In conclusion, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the KTT Mallo tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Cloudy Shadow switch provides a low-pitched and mild typing experience with a more bouncy feel due to extended springs, the Mallo switch offers a subtle and feathery typing feel with a gentle tactility that is just noticeable enough for feedback. Both switches have a neutral sound signature, making them versatile choices for different typing environments. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch with a medium-heavy bottom-out force and a bouncy feel, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch is a solid choice. Its neutral sound signature and 63.5g bottom-out force provide a balanced typing experience suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-light bottom-out force and gentle tactility, the KTT Mallo tactile switch is a great option. With its subtle feedback and neutral sound profile, the Mallo strikes a balanced chord for typists looking for a versatile switch. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your preference for bottom-out force and tactile feedback.
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