Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. Outemu Black
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Outemu Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Outemu Black mechanical keyboard switches, you'll find that both offer distinct features that cater to different preferences. The cloudy shadow, a linear switch, is praised for its rapid traction in the industry and provides a balanced typing experience with its neutral sound signature and bouncy feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Black, also a linear switch, doesn't have any standout features mentioned but offers a different typing experience. While the cloudy shadow is categorized as low-pitched, mild, neutral, the Black's category is not specified. Overall, the cloudy shadow seems to focus on innovation and quality, while the Outemu Black is a more mysterious option. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
82g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.50 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Outemu Black are quite similar in terms of their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through. Overall, the polycarbonate top housing of both switches contributes to a clear and resonant sound when typing.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow features nylon while the Outemu Black also includes nylon in its construction. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that utilize nylon for the bottom housing. Despite using the same material for the bottom housing, there may still be slight differences in sound and feel between the two switches due to variations in design and construction.
In terms of typing experience, the bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when compared to the top housing. While the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key, the qualities of the bottom housing can still be felt during key presses. Both the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and Outemu Black benefit from the unique characteristics of their housing materials, ultimately providing users with distinct typing experiences based on the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in their construction.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch to the Outemu Black linear switch, it is clear that the Black switch is heavier in terms of both actuation force and bottom out force. The Cloudy Shadow has an actuation force of None grams, making it unknown, while the Black switch has an actuation force of 65 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Cloudy Shadow requires 63.5 grams, which is considered medium-heavy, while the Black switch requires 82 grams, making it heavier. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Cloudy Shadow, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may prefer the heavier actuation and bottom out force of the Outemu Black switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the Outemu Black linear switch's 4 mm travel distance. The Cloudy Shadow's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times, while the Black's longer travel distance might be preferred by those looking for a more substantial keypress feel. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference. However, it is important to note that both switches fall within the range of common travel distances, making them suitable for various typing or gaming needs.
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 Outemu Black comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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
When it comes to sound, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch is known for its low-pitched and neutral sound profile, offering a mellow tone with a moderate actuation force requirement. This makes it suitable for a wide range of users, whether they are beginners or advanced enthusiasts. The Outemu Black linear switch's sound profile is unknown, but it is important to consider that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Cloudy Shadow switch is described as having a mild typing experience, offering a gentle feel that falls in a safe middle-ground zone. The extended springs in these switches provide a bouncy feel that adds to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, information on the feel of the Outemu Black switch is unavailable, so it is hard to make a direct comparison.
In conclusion, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch offers a balanced typing experience with a neutral sound signature and a bouncy feel due to the extended springs. While the sound and feel of the Outemu Black linear switch remain unknown, it is likely that users can expect a similar typing experience to the Cloudy Shadow if they choose this switch. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches would come down to personal preference and the specific qualities one values in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Outemu Black linear switch, you should choose the Cloudy Shadow if you are looking for a medium-heavy bottom-out force with a balanced typing experience, neutral sound signature, and bouncy feel. The extended springs in the Cloudy Shadow provide a unique typing experience that many users find enjoyable. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom-out force and do not have specific sound or feel preferences, the Outemu Black linear switch may be the better choice for you. Ultimately, the decision should come down to your personal typing preferences and what features are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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