Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. Outemu Green
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Outemu Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch to the Outemu Green clicky switch, it becomes evident that both offer unique features suited for different preferences. The Cloudy Shadow stands out for its rapid traction in the industry and bouncy feel due to extended springs, providing a balanced typing experience with a 63.5g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the Outemu Green is known for its clicky sound signature, which can add an auditory element to typing. While the Cloudy Shadow offers a mild and neutral typing experience, the Outemu Green provides a more pronounced typing feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. 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
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 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 Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Outemu Green both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which leads to a clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. However, the Cloudy Shadow sets itself apart with a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Green. Nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder sound overall.
While both switches share the benefits of polycarbonate top housings, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow's nylon bottom housing further enhances its sound profile. The split between the two housing materials means that when pressing down on the Cloudy Shadow, you'll feel the impact of the softer nylon bottom housing, resulting in a unique typing experience. The Outemu Green, on the other hand, maintains consistency with its polycarbonate throughout, potentially offering a more uniform sound and feel. This difference in housing materials can lead to variations in sound and tactile feedback between the two switches.
Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Outemu Green will come down to personal preference in sound and typing experience. The combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the Cloudy Shadow creates a complex and varied sound profile, while the Green's uniform polycarbonate housing may offer a more consistent typing experience. Both switches have their advantages, with the Cloudy Shadow providing a deeper sound and the Green maintaining a sharp and crisp sound profile. Whether you prioritize a fuller sound or a more uniform feel, both switches offer high-quality housing materials that contribute to their overall performance.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch, it is evident that the Cloudy Shadow has a lighter actuation force of None grams compared to the Green's 65 grams. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Cloudy Shadow requires 63.5 grams, while the Green needs 80 grams, making it heavier. The Cloudy Shadow offers a medium-heavy typing experience, while the Green provides a heavier and more substantial push feel. Those who prefer a lighter actuation force for prolonged typing sessions may lean towards the Cloudy Shadow, while individuals seeking a stronger push for a more tactile typing experience may opt for the Outemu Green. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirement.
Travel distance
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it a slightly shorter option compared to the Outemu Green clicky switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. While both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, the Cloudy Shadow offers a slightly quicker response time for those seeking a more responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Green clicky switch provides a bit more depth and tactile feedback for users who prefer a more substantial keypress feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance 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 Green 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, giving users a bass-heavy and mellow typing experience suitable for various purposes. On the other hand, the Outemu Green clicky switch's sound characteristics are unknown, but it can be assumed that it would offer a distinct and clicky sound typical of clicky switches. Ultimately, the sound of both switches will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Cloudy Shadow linear switch is described as offering a mild typing experience, making it a suitable choice for those looking for a gentle feel without extreme characteristics. The extended springs in the switch contribute to a bouncy and balanced typing experience with a 63.5g bottom-out force. As for the Outemu Green clicky switch, information regarding its feel characteristics is unknown, but it can be assumed that the clicky nature of the switch would provide a tactile and audible feedback during typing.
In conclusion, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch stands out for its neutral sound profile and mild typing feel, offering a balanced and enjoyable typing experience for users. On the other hand, the Outemu Green clicky switch's sound and feel qualities are not specified, but it is likely to provide a distinct clicky sound and tactile feedback. Both switches cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel, so users can choose based on their personal typing preferences and needs.
Conclusion
In summary, if you are looking for a smooth and balanced typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky typing experience with a heavy bottom out force, the Outemu Green switch would suit your needs better. Consider your typing preferences and the type of sound and feel you prefer when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, the choice between the Cloudy Shadow and the Green switch will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.
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