Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. TTC Neptune
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the TTC Neptune switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the TTC Neptune stand out as excellent choices for different reasons. The Cloudy Shadow from Aflion is praised for its neutral sound signature and bouncy feel, thanks to extended springs, providing a balanced typing experience with a 63.5g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune boasts an innovative internal structure that offers a smooth and almost frictionless glide, coupled with a springy resistance akin to chewy delights like mochi or tapioca pearls. The Neptune's unique "matte" feel and muted sound signature make it a pleasure to type on. While the Cloudy Shadow emphasizes a bouncy feel and balance, the Neptune focuses on a smooth and effortless typing 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
41g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow and TTC Neptune both feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. However, the Cloudy Shadow's polycarbonate top housing is specifically designed to enhance RGB lighting due to its translucency, while the Neptune's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. On the other hand, the bottom housings differ between the two switches. The Cloudy Shadow's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and creating a duller tone. In contrast, the Neptune's polycarbonate bottom housing provides a sharper and crisper sound profile, similar to its top housing.
While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, the Cloudy Shadow and Neptune differ in their bottom housing materials. This leads to unique sound profiles for each switch, with the Cloudy Shadow offering a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon bottom housing, while the Neptune provides a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate bottom housing. The top and bottom housing materials play a significant role in the overall sound and feel of the switches, with each material contributing to different aspects of the typing experience. Ultimately, while both switches may have similar top housings, the choice of bottom housing material significantly impacts the overall sound profile of the switches.
In conclusion, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and TTC Neptune showcase the importance of housing materials in determining the sound profile of a switch. While both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, the Cloudy Shadow's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, while the Neptune's polycarbonate bottom housing offers a sharper and crisper tone. The combination of different housing materials in each switch results in unique typing experiences, with the qualities of each material contributing to the overall sound and feel of the switch. Whether you prefer a deeper, fuller sound or a sharper, crisper tone, both the Cloudy Shadow and Neptune offer distinct sound profiles based on their housing materials.
Weight
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Cloudy Shadow has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which is considered medium-heavy, while the Neptune has a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it lighter. The actuation force for the Cloudy Shadow is unknown, while the Neptune has an actuation force of 41 grams. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Neptune switch, as it requires less force to bottom out. On the other hand, the Cloudy Shadow may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing feel with a heavier bottom out force. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, providing users with the option to choose based on their desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it more suitable for those who prioritize faster response times and prefer a shorter travel distance. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm, providing a bit more depth and a slightly different typing experience. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and responsiveness.
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 TTC Neptune has an MSRP of $7.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Neptune for $5.09.
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, both the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and TTC Neptune switches are described as low-pitched, giving them a bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. The Cloudy Shadow is noted for its neutral sound signature, ideal for various typing environments, while the Neptune offers a more muted and subdued sound profile, maintaining a refined and unobtrusive auditory ambiance. Both switches provide a pleasant typing experience in terms of sound, with slight differences in the level of noise produced.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow is described as providing a mild typing experience, offering a gentle feel that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone suitable for most users. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune is recognized for its buttery, gummy, and frictionless feel, delivering a smooth and almost trampoline-like keystroke sensation. The Neptune's unique combination of textures makes every keystroke a textured pleasure, while the Cloudy Shadow offers a more approachable typing experience without pronounced characteristics. Overall, both switches provide a comfortable and satisfying feel while typing.
In conclusion, both the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and TTC Neptune switches offer distinctive qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Cloudy Shadow provides a neutral sound signature and a mild typing experience, the Neptune stands out with its muted sound profile and buttery, gummy, and frictionless feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing sensations, users can choose between the balanced and bouncy nature of the Cloudy Shadow or the matte and textured pleasure of the Neptune. Ultimately, whether opting for the Cloudy Shadow or Neptune, users can expect a high-quality typing experience tailored to their preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, consider the following factors. Choose the Cloudy Shadow if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom-out force of 63.5 grams, a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, and a mild typing feel with a bouncy sensation due to extended springs. This switch provides a balanced typing experience with a quality and innovative design. On the other hand, opt for the TTC Neptune if you prefer a lighter bottom-out force of 50 grams, a low-pitched and muted sound profile, and a unique buttery and frictionless typing feel reminiscent of chewy delights like mochi. This switch offers a harmonious balance, swift typing experience, and a refined auditory ambiance. Ultimately, your choice between these switches should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and bottom-out force.
Mentioned in this article
