Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. Outemu Phoenix
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Outemu Phoenix switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch is gaining rapid traction in the industry, offering a balanced typing experience with a neutral sound signature and bouncy feel due to the extended springs. With a bottom-out force of 63.5g, the Cloudy Shadow showcases quality and innovation from the rising manufacturer. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch stands out with its under-skirt click mechanism, providing a unique typing experience with a crystalline and sparkling sound profile. It is categorized as 'Crunchy' and 'Polished', offering a different tactile and auditory experience compared to the Cloudy Shadow. When deciding between the two, one might prefer the Cloudy Shadow for its mild and neutral characteristics, while others might lean towards the Phoenix for its crunchy and polished feel. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Outemu Phoenix, both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic that resonates more clearly. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. However, the Cloudy Shadow sets itself apart with a nylon bottom housing, which generates a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Phoenix's polycarbonate bottom housing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder acoustic profile for the Cloudy Shadow.
The difference in bottom housing materials between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Outemu Phoenix affects the overall sound and feel of each switch. The Cloudy Shadow's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound when typing, emphasizing the impact on bottom-out sound and feel. In contrast, the Phoenix's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the sharper, crisper sound profile associated with polycarbonate, enhancing the overall clarity of the switch's sound. Meanwhile, the shared polycarbonate top housing in both switches ensures a uniform sharp and clear sound profile when pressing and releasing keys, making the typing experience consistent between the two switches.
Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Outemu Phoenix comes down to personal preference in sound and feel. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharp sound profile, the Cloudy Shadow's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller typing experience compared to the Phoenix's polycarbonate bottom housing. Whether you prefer a crisper sound with a sharper impact or a deeper, more resonant typing experience, understanding how the different housing materials contribute to the overall sound profile can help you make an informed decision based on your preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, it is clear that the Cloudy Shadow is the heavier option with a bottom out force of 63.5 grams compared to the Phoenix's 62 grams. The actuation force for both switches is listed as None grams, indicating a light initial force requirement to trigger a keystroke. This means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of the force needed to register a key press. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Outemu Phoenix, while those who enjoy a more substantial feel may opt for the Aflion Cloudy Shadow. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is slightly longer than the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch with a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular in the market, particularly among gamers seeking faster response times. Choosing between the two switches may come down to personal preference - if you prefer a more responsive key press, the Cloudy Shadow may be the better option, while if you prefer a more substantial key press, the Phoenix may be more to your liking. Ultimately, both switches offer similar results in terms of travel distance, so you can expect a comparable typing experience from either option.
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 Phoenix comes in at $4.15 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
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch is best known for its neutral and low-pitched sound profile, providing a mellow and bass-heavy typing experience that is suitable for a wide range of users. In contrast, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch offers a crunchy sound that is reminiscent of stepping on autumn leaves, giving users a unique and tactile typing experience. When it comes to feel, the Cloudy Shadow is described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that falls in a safe middle-ground zone. On the other hand, the Phoenix switch is polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Overall, while both switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, users can expect to get similar results in terms of typing satisfaction and innovation from both the Cloudy Shadow and Phoenix switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch or the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a balanced typing experience with a slightly heavier bottom out force and a neutral sound profile, the Cloudy Shadow would be a good choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a unique clicky sound with a lower bottom out force and a more polished feel, the Phoenix switch may be more appealing to you. Consider the qualities of each switch in terms of sound and feel, and decide which aligns best with your typing preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the Cloudy Shadow and Phoenix switches will depend on what you prioritize in your mechanical keyboard experience.
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