Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. KTT Matcha
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the KTT Matcha switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch are both standout options to consider. The Cloudy Shadow offers a bouncy feel and neutral sound signature, making it a balanced choice for those seeking a smooth typing experience with a 63.5g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha provides a comfortable and snappy tactility, producing a clean bottom-out sound thanks to its long pole stem. While the Cloudy Shadow presents itself as low-pitched and mild, the Matcha offers a unique combination of stepped, snappy, clacky, and subtle characteristics. 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
40g
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the KTT Matcha, it is apparent that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The translucency of polycarbonate is especially beneficial for switches designed to incorporate RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through the housing. However, the difference lies in the bottom housing material - the Cloudy Shadow features a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, while the Matcha opts for a polycarbonate bottom housing for a more resonant sound profile.
While both the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the KTT Matcha share the use of polycarbonate for their top housings, the choice of bottom housing material sets them apart. The Cloudy Shadow's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Matcha's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the sharper and crisper sound profile associated with the material. This difference in bottom housing material can impact the overall sound and feel of the switches when in use, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound upon key release.
In conclusion, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the KTT Matcha may share similarities in their top housing material of polycarbonate, which leads to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. However, the choice of bottom housing material sets them apart - the Cloudy Shadow's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Matcha's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains a clear and resonant sound profile. This difference in bottom housing material can affect the overall typing experience, as each material brings its own qualities to the sound and feel of the switches.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch, it is evident that the actuation and bottom out forces vary significantly. The Cloudy Shadow has an actuation force of None grams, making it an extremely light switch in terms of triggering a keystroke. In contrast, the Matcha has an actuation force of 40 grams, providing a slightly heavier touch. When it comes to bottoming out, the Cloudy Shadow requires 63.5 grams, which is considered medium-heavy, while the Matcha only needs 45 grams, making it a lighter option. The differences in actuation and bottom out forces between these two switches cater to individuals who prefer a specific typing experience based on their preference for lighter or heavier key presses. Ultimately, the lighter Matcha switch may be more suitable for those looking for a gentler typing experience, while the heavier Cloudy Shadow switch may appeal to those seeking a more substantial and responsive feel.
Travel distance
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the KTT Matcha tactile switch. The Cloudy Shadow offers a slightly quicker response time compared to the Matcha due to its shorter travel distance. Gamers who prioritize speed and responsiveness may lean towards the Cloudy Shadow. On the other hand, the Matcha's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a greater depth when pressing down on a key. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired 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 KTT Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
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. This means that users can expect a more bass-heavy and mellow tone with a moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for a variety of environments and typing styles. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha tactile switch is described as having a clacky sound, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. Both switches offer different sound profiles, with the Cloudy Shadow providing a more balanced and neutral tone, while the Matcha offers a crisp and bright sound experience.
Moving on to feel, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch is characterized as offering a mild typing experience, with qualities that fall within a safe, middle-ground zone for most users. The extended springs in the Cloudy Shadow switches contribute to a bouncy feel, enhancing the typing experience with a 63.5g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha tactile switch is described as being stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle. This means that the Matcha switch provides a unique tactile feedback with two stages of tactility, responsive key presses, a medium amount of tactility, light actuation force, and a gentle resistance for a comfortable typing experience.
Overall, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Cloudy Shadow provides a more neutral and balanced sound with a mild typing experience, the Matcha offers a clacky sound profile and a stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle feel. Choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, tactility, and typing experience. Both switches showcase innovation and quality from their respective manufacturers, catering to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch, consider your preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom-out force and a neutral sound profile with a bouncy feel, the Cloudy Shadow may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light bottom-out force and a snappy, clean bottom-out sound with a comfortable tactility, the Matcha switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns with your typing needs and preferences to enhance your overall typing experience.
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