Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. Outemu Cream Yellow
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Outemu Cream Yellow 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 Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch are two popular options that offer unique typing experiences. The Cloudy Shadow is praised for its neutral sound signature and bouncy feel, thanks to the extended springs, providing a balanced typing experience with a 63.5g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow is known for its tactile feedback, giving users a satisfying sensation with each keystroke. While the Cloudy Shadow is categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Mild', 'Neutral', the Cream Yellow's characteristics are not specified. Both switches have their own advantages, making them suitable for different preferences and typing styles. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Outemu Cream Yellow, it is evident that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings. This choice of material results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on these switches, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. However, despite this similarity in material, the overall typing experience may still differ slightly between the two switches due to other factors such as spring weight and stem design.
On the other hand, when looking at the top housings of the Cloudy Shadow and Cream Yellow, the Cloudy Shadow features a polycarbonate top housing while the Cream Yellow utilizes nylon. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to its relatively stiffer nature that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. In contrast, nylon offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This difference in top housing material can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of typing on the switches.
It is important to note that the qualities each housing material brings to the switch will be split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing will have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, even if both switches share the same bottom housing material, the use of different materials for the top housing can result in distinct typing experiences that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Outemu Cream Yellow will depend on individual preferences for sound profile, key feel, and overall typing experience.
Weight
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Cloudy Shadow has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it medium-heavy, while the Cream Yellow bottoms out at 60 grams, being classified as medium. The actuation force for the Cloudy Shadow is not specified, while the Cream Yellow requires 45 grams for actuation. In terms of weight, the Cream Yellow is lighter compared to the Cloudy Shadow. For those who enjoy a lighter typing experience for longer periods, the Cream Yellow would be a better option. However, for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel, the Cloudy Shadow would provide a heavier push. In general, having a lighter actuation force allows for longer typing sessions, while a heavier bottom out force provides a more robust typing experience.
Travel distance
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are increasingly popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. The Cloudy Shadow is slightly longer than the Cream Yellow, but the difference is minimal. Players who prefer a more responsive feel may lean towards the Cloudy Shadow, while those who enjoy greater depth in their key press may opt for the Cream Yellow. Ultimately, both switches offer similar results in terms of travel distance, making them suitable choices based on individual preferences.
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 Cream Yellow 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
The Cloudy Shadow linear switch is known for its low-pitched, neutral sound profile, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for a variety of typing scenarios. With a bouncy and mild feel due to the extended springs, these switches provide a balanced typing experience with a 63.5g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch's sound profile is unknown, making it difficult to directly compare to the Cloudy Shadow. However, the feel of the Cream Yellow also remains a mystery. Overall, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, but if the Cream Yellow switch is similar in design to the Cloudy Shadow, users can expect a balanced and approachable typing experience with a mild feel and neutral sound profile.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch, consider your typing preferences and needs. If you enjoy a bouncy feel and slightly heavier bottom-out force, the Cloudy Shadow may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more gentle typing experience with a medium bottom-out force, the Cream Yellow switch could be a better fit. Ultimately, the decision boils down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable for you during long typing sessions. Keep in mind the sound and feel profiles of each switch as you make your decision. Happy typing!
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