Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. Outemu Silent Yellow
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Outemu Silent Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch to the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, it's important to note some key differences. The Cloudy Shadow is best known for its rapid traction in the industry, offering a bouncy feel and neutral sound signature with a 63.5g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow switch from Outemu is categorized as silent, giving it an advantage in noise reduction. While the Cloudy Shadow provides a balanced typing experience, the Silent Yellow may appeal to those looking for a quieter option. 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
2.20 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 Aflion Cloudy Shadow and Outemu Silent Yellow both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. This results in a more clear and resonant sound when typing on switches with clear housings. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting. However, while both switches use the same material for the top housing, the differences lie in their nylon bottom housings. The Cloudy Shadow's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the Silent Yellow's nylon bottom housing offers the same qualities for a different typing experience.
In terms of sound and feel, the choice of housing material plays a crucial role for both the Cloudy Shadow and Silent Yellow switches. The split between the bottom and top housings allows for different characteristics to come through when typing. The bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to the softness and sound absorption of nylon. On the other hand, the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key, contributing to the sharper and crisper sound profile of polycarbonate. Both switches offer a well-balanced typing experience with a combination of housing materials that add depth and clarity to the sound produced.
Overall, while the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and Outemu Silent Yellow feature different bottom housing materials, they both offer unique advantages in sound quality and typing experience. The Cloudy Shadow's polycarbonate top housing creates a clear and resonant sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing adds depth and fullness. Similarly, the Silent Yellow's housing combination results in a sharper and crisper sound when releasing a key, along with a deeper and fuller sound profile while typing. Both switches excel in their use of housing materials to enhance the overall typing experience for users looking for a specific sound profile and feel.
Weight
In comparing the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, it is evident that the Silent Yellow is the heavier option. The Cloudy Shadow has a light actuation force of None grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Silent Yellow requires a higher actuation force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel. When it comes to bottom out force, the Cloudy Shadow bottoms out at 63.5 grams, which is considered medium-heavy, while the Silent Yellow bottoms out at a heavier 80 grams. Those who enjoy longer typing or gaming sessions may find the lighter actuation force of the Cloudy Shadow more comfortable, while users seeking a more robust feel may prefer the heavier actuation force of the Silent Yellow. Both switches offer distinct typing experiences, with the Cloudy Shadow catering to a lighter touch and the Silent Yellow to a more forceful typing style.
Travel distance
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Cloudy Shadow offers a slightly shorter key press experience compared to the Silent Yellow. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Cloudy Shadow due to its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the Silent Yellow with its longer travel distance. Both switches offer a smooth linear feel, but the difference in travel distance can play a role in the overall typing or gaming experience.
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 Silent 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
In terms of sound, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch is known for its low-pitched and neutral sound profile, offering a bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for a variety of typing environments. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch does not have any specific sound descriptors available, so it is difficult to directly compare the sound qualities of the two switches.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch is described as providing a mild typing experience, offering a gentle and approachable feel that falls into a safe middle-ground zone. The extended springs in the Cloudy Shadow switches contribute to a bouncy feel that adds to the overall typing experience. Unfortunately, there is no specific information available on the feel of the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, making it hard to compare the two in this aspect.
Overall, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch seems to offer a balanced typing experience with a neutral sound signature and mild feel, thanks to innovations like extended springs and a 63.5g bottom-out force. While the subjective qualities of the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch are not as clearly defined, it is likely that you may achieve similar results in sound and feel with both switches given their linear nature. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and any other factors that may influence your decision.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a balanced typing experience with a neutral sound signature and bouncy feel, 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 sound or feel descriptions, the Silent Yellow could be a suitable option. Ultimately, the decision will come down to your personal preference for typing experience and switch characteristics.
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