Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch with the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, it's clear that both offer unique features for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The cloudy shadow is praised for its neutral sound signature and bouncy feel, thanks to extended springs, making it a popular choice for those seeking a balanced typing experience with a 63.5g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the dustproof silent ocean's features are not explicitly highlighted, perhaps suggesting a more understated approach to its design. While both switches offer linear typing experience, with the cloudy shadow being categorized as low-pitched, mild, neutral and the dustproof silent ocean lacking categorization, each switch may appeal to different preferences in terms of sound, feel, and overall 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
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 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 Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer plastic composition. This material is especially beneficial for switches intended for use with RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows for vibrant lighting effects to shine through. However, despite their similarities in top housing material, the Cloudy Shadow's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Dustproof Silent Ocean's nylon bottom housing. This difference is due to nylon's softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound.
While both switches share a commonality in their polycarbonate top housing, the distinction in their nylon bottom housings results in a noticeable difference in sound when typing on each switch. The Cloudy Shadow's combination of a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing allows for a split in sound qualities between the bottom-out sound and the sound when releasing a key. On the other hand, the Dustproof Silent Ocean's nylon bottom housing contributes to a fuller sound, but the impact of the top housing on the sound when releasing a key may differ. Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and overall typing experience for users.
In terms of aesthetics and sound performance, both the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean offer unique qualities based on their housing materials. The polycarbonate top housing in both switches provides a clear and resonant sound profile, ideal for those who enjoy a sharp and crisp typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the visual appeal of switches, especially when paired with RGB lighting. However, the use of nylon in the bottom housing of each switch results in differences in sound depth and texture, with the Cloudy Shadow offering a deeper sound profile compared to the Dustproof Silent Ocean. Ultimately, the combination of housing materials in a switch can significantly impact the overall typing experience, making it essential for users to consider their preferences when selecting a switch for their keyboard.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, it is evident that the actuation force and bottom out force play a crucial role in the typing experience. The Cloudy Shadow has an actuation force of None grams, which means it is unknown, while the Dustproof Silent Ocean has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Cloudy Shadow requires 63.5 grams, whereas the Dustproof Silent Ocean is slightly heavier at 65 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy category. The difference in actuation force may result in a lighter typing experience with the Dustproof Silent Ocean, which could be preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Cloudy Shadow with its higher bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
When comparing the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch in terms of travel distance, the Cloudy Shadow has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Dustproof Silent Ocean's 3.3 mm. While the difference may seem small, it can still impact the overall feel and responsiveness of the keyboard. The Cloudy Shadow's longer travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing, while the Dustproof Silent Ocean's shorter travel distance may be favored by gamers seeking faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Silent Ocean 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 a variety of typing environments. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch's sound profile is unknown, so it is difficult to compare the two in this aspect.
Moving on to feel, the Cloudy Shadow linear switch is described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that falls within a safe middle-ground zone, making it approachable to most users. Unfortunately, information on the feel of the Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch is unavailable, making it challenging to directly compare the two switches on this attribute.
In conclusion, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch is praised for its neutral sound signature and bouncy feel with extended springs, providing a balanced typing experience with a 63.5g bottom-out force. While the specific qualities of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch are not provided, the Cloudy Shadow aims to offer a pleasant typing experience for users looking for a switch with mild characteristics. Ultimately, individuals seeking a similar typing experience to what the Cloudy Shadow offers may find satisfaction with the Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, given the similarities in design and function.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, you should opt for the Cloudy Shadow if you prefer a slightly lighter bottom-out force of 63.5 grams and enjoy a neutral sound signature with a bouncy feel. The Cloudy Shadow provides a balanced typing experience suitable for a wide range of users. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom-out force of 65 grams and are looking for a silent switch, the Dustproof Silent Ocean may be the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing experience, sound profile, and bottom-out force.
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