Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. KTT Phalaenopsis
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow and KTT Phalaenopsis mechanical keyboard switches offer distinct typing experiences for users with different preferences. The Cloudy Shadow linear switch from Aflion is praised for its neutral sound signature and bouncy feel, thanks to extended springs and a 63.5g bottom-out force, providing a balanced typing experience. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis tactile switch from KTT features a light 37g actuation force, minimizing finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions, while also offering a satisfying tactile bump at 50g. While the Cloudy Shadow is categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Mild', and 'Neutral', the Phalaenopsis is described as 'Bassy', 'Stepped', and 'Thocky'. Both switches have their unique strengths, appealing to different preferences and typing styles. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow and KTT Phalaenopsis both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed to incorporate RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the overall design. In contrast, the Phalaenopsis features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which maintains a similar sound profile but with a more direct impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed.
On the other hand, the Cloudy Shadow's nylon bottom housing offers a different typing experience compared to the Phalaenopsis. Nylon as a housing material creates a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, attributed to its softer nature that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound quality, providing a unique tactile feel for users. In contrast, the Phalaenopsis's polycarbonate bottom housing echoes the characteristics of its top housing, emphasizing a sharper and crisper sound profile with a more resonant tone.
While both switches have different combinations of housing materials for their top and bottom sections, they each bring their own distinct qualities to the overall typing experience. The split design allows for a balance of sound attributes between the top and bottom housings, influencing the sound and feel when pressing and releasing keys. This showcases how the choice of housing materials can have a significant impact on the overall performance and user experience of mechanical switches, catering to the preferences of different individuals based on their sound and tactile preferences. Ultimately, whether using the Aflion Cloudy Shadow or KTT Phalaenopsis, users can expect a unique and customizable typing experience based on the combination of housing materials utilized in each switch.
Weight
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch offer different experiences when it comes to actuation and bottom out forces. The Cloudy Shadow has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it medium-heavy, while its actuation force is not specified. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams and an actuation force of 37 grams, making it a lighter option. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Phalaenopsis, allowing for longer typing sessions without much strain. In contrast, those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Cloudy Shadow with its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it shorter than the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Cloudy Shadow's shorter travel distance may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, while the Phalaenopsis' longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a deeper key press. Both switches offer different options for those seeking a specific feel in their typing experience, with the Cloudy Shadow leaning towards speed and the Phalaenopsis offering a more deliberate key press. 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 KTT Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis for $4.15.
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 offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a more balanced and moderate typing experience suitable for various settings. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch is known for its bassy and thocky sound, offering a deeper and richer tone during key presses for a more indulgent typing experience. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that can be enhanced by your choice of keyboard and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow switch is described as providing a mild typing experience, offering a gentle feel that falls within a safe middle-ground zone. Conversely, the KTT Phalaenopsis switch is labeled as stepped, providing a tactile experience with two stages that are more mild in comparison to other tactile switches. The Phalaenopsis switch offers a more discernible tactile bump, ensuring each keystroke is both satisfying and effortless, minimizing finger fatigue during long typing sessions.
Ultimately, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Cloudy Shadow provides a neutral sound and a mild typing experience with balanced actuation, the Phalaenopsis offers a more indulgent, bassy sound with a discernible tactile bump. Choosing between the two will depend on your preference for sound and typing feel, as both switches provide quality and innovation in the industry. Whether you opt for the Cloudy Shadow or the Phalaenopsis, you can expect a delightful typing experience tailored to your personal preferences.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you are looking for a balanced typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom-out force and a neutral sound signature, you should choose the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch. On the other hand, if you prefer a light actuation force, a discernible tactile bump, and a satisfying typing experience with minimal finger fatigue, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch would be the ideal choice for you. Consider the sound profile and feel of each switch to determine which one aligns best with your preferences and typing style. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so make sure to try them out firsthand to see which one suits you best.
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