Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. KTT Pine
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the KTT Pine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow and KTT Pine are both linear mechanical keyboard switches offering unique features for different preferences. The Cloudy Shadow is praised for its neutral sound signature and bouncy feel, thanks to extended springs, providing a balanced typing experience with a 63.5g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the KTT Pine stands out for its medium-heavy feel and buttery smooth key presses, enhanced by a polished, factory-lubed finish for reduced friction during typing. Both switches offer distinct characteristics for typing enthusiasts seeking a specific 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
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Spring
15.5mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the KTT Pine, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, making it ideal for switches that prioritize sound quality. The translucent nature of polycarbonate also makes it perfect for switches with RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal of the keyboard. However, when it comes to the bottom housings, the Cloudy Shadow uses nylon while the Pine sticks with polycarbonate. Nylon offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Pine's polycarbonate bottom housing complements the top housing by providing a clear and resonant sound profile.
One notable difference between the Cloudy Shadow and the Pine is the material used for their bottom housings. While the Cloudy Shadow opts for nylon, the Pine goes with polycarbonate. This choice results in a difference in sound profiles, with the Cloudy Shadow producing a deeper and fuller sound due to the absorption properties of nylon, while the Pine delivers a sharper and crisper sound typical of polycarbonate. The split in housing materials between the top and bottom of the switches means that the qualities of each material are felt differently depending on whether you are pressing down on a key or releasing it. This showcases how the choice of housing material can impact the overall typing experience and sound quality of a keyboard.
Overall, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the KTT Pine both benefit from using polycarbonate for their top housings, providing a similar sharp, crisp sound profile and enhancing the visual appeal with RGB lighting capabilities. However, the differing choice of bottom housing material between nylon and polycarbonate sets these switches apart in terms of sound characteristics. The Cloudy Shadow's deeper and fuller sound profile from nylon contrasts with the Pine's sharper and crisper sound from polycarbonate, showcasing how material selection can influence the overall typing experience. Despite these differences, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
Comparing the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch to the KTT Pine linear switch, it is clear that there are differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The actuation force of the Cloudy Shadow is marked as None grams, while the Pine has an actuation force of 45 grams. On the other hand, the bottom out force of the Cloudy Shadow is 63.5 grams, making it heavier than the Pine, which has a bottom out force of 58 grams. This means that while the Cloudy Shadow is heavier both in actuation and bottom out force, the Pine provides a lighter typing experience overall. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Pine switch, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, individuals who enjoy a more substantial keystroke may find the Cloudy Shadow more to their liking. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch with a travel distance of 3.5 mm falls on the shorter end of the spectrum compared to the KTT Pine linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Cloudy Shadow offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers looking for fast feedback. On the other hand, the Pine switch provides a bit more depth and cushion with its longer travel distance, appealing to those who prefer a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific typing or gaming needs of the individual.
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 Pine has an MSRP of $4.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine 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
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch is known for its neutral sound signature, providing a low-pitched tone that is mellow and suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, the KTT Pine linear switch offers a bassy sound profile, giving a deeper and richer tone during key presses. Both switches have a low-pitched characteristic, but the Cloudy Shadow leans towards a more neutral sound while the Pine offers a bass-heavy experience. Ultimately, the sound preference between these switches will depend on personal taste and the accompanying hardware setup.
When it comes to feel, the Cloudy Shadow linear switch offers a mild typing experience, with a more gentle key press compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. In contrast, the KTT Pine linear switch provides a buttery and creamy typing sensation, thanks to its factory-lubed finish that minimizes friction for smooth key travel. Both switches aim to offer a comfortable and effortless typing experience, with the Cloudy Shadow leaning towards a more balanced feel while the Pine focuses on smoothness and fluidity. Again, the preference for typing feel will vary based on individual preferences and typing style.
In conclusion, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch both offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Cloudy Shadow provides a neutral and mild typing experience, the Pine offers a bassy and buttery feel. Depending on your sound and feel preferences, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience. Additionally, it's essential to consider other factors such as keycaps, keyboard build, and personal preferences when choosing between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer quality options for those looking for a different typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, you should consider the difference in bottom-out forces. If you prefer a slightly heavier typing experience, the Cloudy Shadow with a bottom-out force of 63.5 grams may be more suitable for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom-out force, the KTT Pine with a bottom-out force of 58 grams could be the better choice. Additionally, think about the sound and feel preferences. The Cloudy Shadow offers a low-pitched and mild typing experience, while the Pine provides a bassy and buttery feel. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns with your typing preferences and enhances your overall typing experience.
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