Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. KTT Orange
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the KTT Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the KTT Orange both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Cloudy Shadow linear switch is praised for its neutral sound signature and bouncy feel, achieved through extended springs and a 63.5g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the KTT Orange linear switch boasts a 22mm long spring for a bouncy typing experience, along with a polycarbonate milky top housing and excellent factory-lubing for smooth key travel. While the Cloudy Shadow provides a balanced typing experience, the KTT Orange offers a slick, frictionless feel. 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
46g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the KTT Orange, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. However, where they differ is in the material used for the bottom housing. The Cloudy Shadow features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Orange opts for a polycarbonate bottom housing, maintaining a consistent crisp and resonant sound profile throughout the switch.
Looking further into the impact of housing materials on switch performance, it can be observed that the qualities of the bottom housing material play a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of a switch. This means that for the Cloudy Shadow, users will experience a deeper and more rounded sound and feel when pressing down on the keys, thanks to the nylon bottom housing. Conversely, the Orange's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper and more defined bottom-out experience. When it comes to the release sound of a key, the top housing material takes precedence. With both switches utilizing polycarbonate for their top housings, users can expect a consistent sharp and resonant sound upon key release.
While the Cloudy Shadow and the KTT Orange share similarities in their polycarbonate top housing, their choice of bottom housing material sets them apart in terms of the overall sound profile and typing experience. The Cloudy Shadow's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, contrasting with the sharper and crisper sound profile of the Orange's polycarbonate bottom housing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference for sound characteristics and typing feel, as both offer distinct qualities based on their housing material composition.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch to the KTT Orange linear switch, we see a clear difference in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Cloudy Shadow has an actuation force of None grams, making it easier to trigger a keystroke compared to the Orange, which has an actuation force of 46 grams. On the other hand, the Cloudy Shadow has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, giving a more substantial typing experience, while the Orange has a lighter bottom out force of 53 grams. This means that the Cloudy Shadow is heavier overall in terms of bottoming out, while the Orange is lighter. Depending on preference, the Cloudy Shadow may be preferred for those who like a stronger push feel, while the Orange may be more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles and preferences.
Travel distance
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making them equal in this aspect. Both switches provide a consistent feel and response when pressed, giving users a similar tactile experience. The travel distance of 3.5 mm for both switches ensures that users will get the same level of key travel and actuation regardless of which switch they choose. Overall, the Cloudy Shadow and Orange linear switches offer the same keypress experience in terms of travel distance, providing users with a reliable and consistent 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 Orange has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange for $4.15.
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 KTT Orange linear switches are described as having a low-pitched sound profile. The Cloudy Shadow offers a neutral sound signature, while the Orange switch provides a low-pitched tone. Depending on personal preference and the overall setup of the keyboard, the choice between the two may come down to individual taste and the intended use of the keyboard.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow switch provides a mild typing experience with a bouncy feel due to its extended springs. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switch offers a bouncy and frictionless typing feel, thanks to its long pole POM stem and excellent factory-lubing. Both switches aim to provide smooth and responsive typing experiences but do so in slightly different ways, catering to different preferences in terms of key feedback and responsiveness.
Overall, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and KTT Orange linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. While both switches aim to provide a balanced typing experience, the Cloudy Shadow may appeal to those seeking a more neutral sound and mild typing feel, while the KTT Orange switch may be preferred by those looking for a bouncy and frictionless typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and use cases, but both are likely to provide a satisfactory outcome in terms of typing performance.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, consider the specific qualities that each switch offers. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a neutral sound profile with a bouncy feel, then the Cloudy Shadow may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force, a low-pitched sound profile, and a bouncy, frictionless typing experience, then the KTT Orange switch may better suit your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are seeking.
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