Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. Outemu Dustproof Black
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Outemu Dustproof Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch to the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, both offer their own unique features that cater to different preferences. The Cloudy Shadow is praised for its bouncy feel and neutral sound signature, making it a great choice for those looking for a balanced typing experience. With a 63.5g bottom-out force, the Cloudy Shadow reflects the innovation and quality that Aflion brings to the market. On the other hand, the Dustproof Black switch from Outemu doesn't have any standout features mentioned, leaving it more of a mystery in terms of its sound and 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
60g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and Outemu Dustproof Black switches, it is evident that both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of switches creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switches. This similarity in housing material suggests that users can expect a similar sound profile and appearance from both the Cloudy Shadow and Dustproof Black switches.
However, the key difference between the two switches lies in their bottom housing material. The Aflion Cloudy Shadow features a nylon bottom housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Black also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, emphasizing the same qualities of a deeper and fuller sound profile. This similarity in bottom housing material suggests that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel from both switches.
When considering the impact of different housing materials on the overall typing experience, it becomes evident that the bottom housing has a significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel of a key press. The nylon bottom housing of both the Cloudy Shadow and Dustproof Black switches contributes to a more absorbing and muffled sound when pressing down on a key. On the contrary, the top housing material, being polycarbonate in both switches, affects the sound when releasing a key, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound profile. This division of qualities between the top and bottom housings showcases how each material brings a distinct characteristic to the overall typing experience of the switches.
Weight
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch have notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Cloudy Shadow has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, whereas the Dustproof Black has a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams. The actuation force of the Cloudy Shadow is None grams, making it lighter in this aspect compared to the Dustproof Black's 60 gram actuation force, which is heavier. Both switches offer unique typing experiences, with the Cloudy Shadow being lighter and more suitable for extended typing sessions, while the Dustproof Black provides a more substantial and tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. While both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, the Cloudy Shadow offers a slightly shallower key press compared to the Dustproof Black. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Cloudy Shadow due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the Dustproof Black for its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the desired feel of the key press.
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 Dustproof 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, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch does not have any specific sound descriptors available, making it difficult to compare directly. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is influenced by a combination of factors such as the keyboard build and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch is described as offering a mild typing experience, providing a gentle and approachable feel that is well-suited for most users. The extended springs in the Cloudy Shadow switches contribute to a bouncy feel, adding a unique element to the typing experience. Unfortunately, there is no specific information available about the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, making it challenging to draw direct comparisons in this aspect.
Overall, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch stands out for its balanced typing experience with a neutral sound signature and a mild, bouncy feel. While the subjective qualities of the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch remain unknown, it is important to consider individual preferences and requirements when choosing between switches. Depending on your typing style and desired sound and feel, you can expect similar results in terms of overall typing experience with both switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, consider the bottom out force and the typing experience you prefer. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a balanced, bouncy typing experience with a neutral sound signature, the Cloudy Shadow may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and are not particularly concerned with additional features such as sound signature, the Dustproof Black could be the more suitable option. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing habits to ensure the most comfortable and enjoyable typing experience.
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