Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. Outemu Dustproof Purple
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Outemu Dustproof Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for a mechanical keyboard switch, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch are two popular options to consider. The Cloudy Shadow linear switch by Aflion has gained rapid traction in the industry for its balanced typing experience, featuring a neutral sound signature and bouncy feel thanks to extended springs. With a 63.5g bottom-out force, this switch reflects the quality and innovation of the rising manufacturer. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch offers a different typing experience, categorized as having a low-pitched, mild, and neutral sound profile. When deciding between these two switches, one might choose the Cloudy Shadow for its smooth linear action, while the Dustproof Purple may be preferable for those who prefer a more tactile and audible 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
55g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
The housing materials of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Outemu Dustproof Purple switches are quite similar, as they both feature polycarbonate in their top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The Cloudy Shadow utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound to create a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Dustproof Purple also features a nylon bottom housing, offering similar sound qualities to the Cloudy Shadow.
Despite the similarities in their top and bottom housing materials, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Outemu Dustproof Purple switches may still have subtle differences in sound and feel due to the distribution of their housing materials. The qualities of the bottom housing, such as the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, will be more pronounced in the Cloudy Shadow, as nylon is known for its sound-absorbing properties. Conversely, the Dustproof Purple may have a slightly different sound profile when letting go of a key, as the impact of the top housing material, polycarbonate, will be more prominent in this switch.
In conclusion, while both the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Outemu Dustproof Purple switches offer similar sharp, high-pitched sound profiles due to their polycarbonate top housing, their subtle differences in bottom housing materials may result in slightly varied sound and feel characteristics. Overall, both switches provide a combination of clear, resonant sound from the polycarbonate top housing and a deeper, fuller sound from the nylon bottom housing, making them both excellent choices for those looking for a tactile typing experience.
Weight
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch both fall under the medium-heavy category in terms of bottom out force. However, the actuation force of the Cloudy Shadow is not specified, while the Dustproof Purple has a lower actuation force of 55 grams. This means that the Dustproof Purple may require a slightly lighter touch to register a keystroke compared to the Cloudy Shadow. Some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Dustproof Purple for extended typing sessions or gaming, while others may prefer the slightly heavier bottom out force of the Cloudy Shadow for a more substantial typing experience. Overall, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of weight and typing feel.
Travel distance
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Dustproof Purple has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Cloudy Shadow. A 3.5 mm travel distance is on the shorter side, making it preferable for those seeking faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the 4 mm travel distance of the Dustproof Purple may suit individuals who prefer a deeper key press sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key feel.
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 Purple 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 more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch is unknown, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Cloudy Shadow linear switch is described as providing a mild typing experience, with a gentle feel that falls in a safe, middle-ground zone suitable for most users. The extended springs in this switch contribute to a bouncy feel, enhancing the typing experience. Unfortunately, information regarding the feel of the Dustproof Purple clicky switch is not available, making it challenging to draw a direct comparison in terms of tactile feedback and typing experience.
Overall, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch offers a balanced typing experience with a neutral sound signature and bouncy feel, thanks to its unique design elements such as extended springs. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch lacks specific information on sound and feel, making it difficult to provide an in-depth comparison. In conclusion, if the Dustproof Purple offers similar qualities to the Cloudy Shadow in terms of sound and feel, users can expect a comparable typing experience with a different aesthetic appeal.
Conclusion
To sum up, when it comes to choosing between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch, it ultimately depends on your preference for sound and feel. If you are looking for a balanced typing experience with a neutral sound signature and a bouncy feel, the Cloudy Shadow with its 63.5g bottom-out force would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer clicky switches with a higher bottom-out force and are not particularly concerned with sound profile, the Dustproof Purple with its 65g bottom-out force might be more suitable for you. Consider your typing preferences and environment when making your decision between these two switches.
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