Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. KTT Mannan Pipefish
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the KTT Mannan Pipefish switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch both offer unique qualities for different typing preferences. The Cloudy Shadow is renowned for its neutral sound signature and bouncy feel, thanks to the extended springs, creating a balanced typing experience with a 63.5g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish boasts smooth linear action, a lighter 45g actuation and bottom-out force, and a lengthened spring for effortless and enjoyable typing. While the Cloudy Shadow may appeal to those looking for a slightly more robust typing experience, the Mannan Pipefish is perfect for casual typists seeking a strain-free and polished typing journey. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Spring
22mm spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the KTT Mannan Pipefish both feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in housings allows for a more clear and resonant sound due to its stiffness, making it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this material for their top housing, the differences lie in their bottom housings.
In contrast, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the KTT Mannan Pipefish also employs a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. Despite the differences in their top housings, both switches offer a similar sound experience due to their shared material in the bottom housing.
Overall, the choice between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the KTT Mannan Pipefish ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile. While both switches offer a sharp, high-pitched sound with their polycarbonate top housings, the variation in the bottom housing material may appeal to different users. Whether one prefers the deeper and fuller sound of nylon in the Cloudy Shadow or the crisper sound profile of polycarbonate in the Mannan Pipefish, each switch provides a unique typing experience based on the housing materials used.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, it is evident that the Mannan Pipefish is the lighter option of the two. The Mannan Pipefish has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, providing a light typing experience. In contrast, the Cloudy Shadow linear switch has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it a medium-heavy option. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Mannan Pipefish would be the more suitable choice. On the other hand, individuals looking for a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may lean towards the Cloudy Shadow. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches would depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch's travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Mannan Pipefish offers a slightly longer key travel distance compared to the Cloudy Shadow. Gamers who prefer faster response times may lean towards the Cloudy Shadow with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may opt for the Mannan Pipefish. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distance, catering to the individual preferences of users.
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 Mannan Pipefish has an MSRP of $3.53 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mannan Pipefish for $3.05.
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 profile, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone suitable for a variety of typing environments. On the other hand, the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch also offers a neutral sound profile, making it versatile for different user preferences and environments. Both switches offer a pleasant sound experience, with the Cloudy Shadow being slightly lower in pitch compared to the Mannan Pipefish.
Moving on to feel, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch is described as providing a mild typing experience, offering a gentle feel that falls within a safe middle-ground zone. In contrast, the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch offers an easy-to-press feel, with light actuation force that makes typing effortless and comfortable. Additionally, the Mannan Pipefish switch is noted for its polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, both the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switches provide unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Cloudy Shadow offers a bouncy feel and a low-pitched sound, while the Mannan Pipefish provides a smooth linear action and a polished finish for a comfortable typing experience. Whether you prefer a neutral sound profile and a mild typing experience like the Cloudy Shadow or an easy-to-press feel with a polished finish like the Mannan Pipefish, both switches offer quality and innovation in their own right, ensuring a satisfying typing journey for newcomers to the mechanical keyboard scene. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking to achieve.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, consider the factors that are most important to you. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom-out force and a balanced typing experience with a neutral sound profile, then the Cloudy Shadow may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom-out force for effortless typing and a smooth, polished typing experience with easy-to-press keys, then the Mannan Pipefish might be the better option. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. Consider trying out both switches to see which one suits you best.
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