Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. KTT Purple Click
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the KTT Purple Click switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to weigh are the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch. The Cloudy Shadow stands out for its neutral sound signature and bouncy feel, thanks to the extended springs, offering a balanced typing experience with a 63.5g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the Purple Click is known for its high-pitched, satisfying click and light keystrokes that provide a pronounced tactility without being overwhelming. While the Cloudy Shadow is ideal for those seeking a mild and neutral typing experience, the Purple Click appeals to users who enjoy a crunchy and invigorating 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
40g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow and KTT Purple Click both feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. Despite these similarities, the Cloudy Shadow and Purple Click may have different aesthetics or design elements that set them apart visually.
In terms of bottom housings, both the Cloudy Shadow and Purple Click utilize nylon, a classic switch housing material that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is softer than polycarbonate, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound. This difference in material between the top and bottom housings allows for a combination of qualities in the switch's overall sound and feel. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key.
While the Cloudy Shadow and Purple Click share similarities in their housing materials, such as the use of polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing, differences may arise in the overall sound profile and typing experience of each switch. Factors like the design, construction, and specific properties of the materials used can result in nuanced distinctions in sound and feel between the two switches. Ultimately, users may find that the choice between the Cloudy Shadow and Purple Click comes down to personal preference in terms of sound, aesthetics, and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, it is clear that they offer different experiences. The Cloudy Shadow has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which is medium-heavy, while the Purple Click has a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it medium-light. The actuation force of the Cloudy Shadow is unknown, whereas the Purple Click requires 40 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Purple Click, as it has a lower actuation force and bottom out force. On the other hand, the Cloudy Shadow would be more suitable for those seeking a more substantial typing feel due to its heavier bottom out force. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which falls on the shorter end of the spectrum. In contrast, the KTT Purple Click clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it slightly longer. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their travel distances. The shorter travel distance of the Cloudy Shadow may cater more to those looking for quicker response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Purple Click may provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for users who prefer a deeper key press. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference 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 Purple Click has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Click for $2.55.
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 offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for most users. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Click clicky switch presents a crunchy and resonant sound, reminiscent of stepping on crisp autumn leaves, with a higher-pitched and immersive auditory experience. Both switches offer distinct sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the Cloudy Shadow being more subdued and versatile, while the Purple Click delivers a more vibrant and engaging typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow switch is described as providing a mild and approachable typing experience, offering a gentle feel that falls within a safe middle-ground zone. In contrast, the KTT Purple Click switch is labeled as invigorating and stepped, delivering pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy, reactive feel with a two-stage tactile sensation. The Cloudy Shadow appeals to users seeking a comfortable and consistent typing experience, whereas the Purple Click caters to individuals looking for a more dynamic and tactile response during typing sessions.
Overall, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch offer unique subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Cloudy Shadow excels in providing a balanced and neutral typing experience with a mellow sound profile, the Purple Click stands out with its high-pitched and crunchy click, coupled with an invigorating and stepped feel. Both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles, ensuring users can find the perfect match based on their individual preferences and needs. Ultimately, whether you opt for the Cloudy Shadow or the Purple Click, you can expect a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience with either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, consider the factors that matter most to you. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force for a balanced typing experience with a bouncy feel, the Cloudy Shadow may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium-light bottom out force with a high-pitched, satisfying click for a tactile typing experience, the Purple Click switch could be more suitable. Both switches offer unique sound profiles and feels, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. Consider your preferences in terms of actuation force, sound, and feel to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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