Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. KTT Purple Star
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the KTT Purple Star switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the KTT Purple Star, both of which are linear switches. The Cloudy Shadow from Aflion is gaining rapid traction in the industry for its balanced typing experience with a 63.5g bottom-out force, featuring a neutral sound signature and bouncy feel thanks to extended springs. On the other hand, the Purple Star switches from KTT boast an all-POM construction that delivers a buttery smooth typing experience, perfect for light typists with a very light 45g bottom-out force. While the Cloudy Shadow is categorized as low-pitched, mild, neutral and the Purple Star as mild, low-pitched, easy-to-press, both switches offer unique benefits that cater to different preferences. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the KTT Purple Star, we can see that the Cloudy Shadow utilizes a polycarbonate top housing while the Purple Star features a POM top housing. Both materials have their unique qualities that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The polycarbonate top housing of the Cloudy Shadow creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, while the POM top housing of the Purple Star produces a deeper and more muted sound. Despite these differences, both materials offer a pleasing sound experience for users.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Cloudy Shadow uses a nylon bottom housing, whereas the Purple Star utilizes a POM bottom housing. Nylon is known for providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softness and ability to absorb more sound. Similarly, POM housings also create a deep and muted sound, resulting in a unique typing experience. While the materials differ, both the Cloudy Shadow and the Purple Star offer a satisfying sound profile that caters to different preferences.
When considering the impact of the top and bottom housings on the overall typing experience, it's important to note that the qualities of each material are divided between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences in housing materials, both the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the KTT Purple Star offer a high-quality typing experience with unique sound profiles that cater to various preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, it's clear that the Cloudy Shadow is the heavier option with a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, while the Purple Star is the lighter option with a bottom out force of 50 grams. The Cloudy Shadow has no specified actuation force, making it difficult to determine the exact pressure needed to trigger a keystroke, whereas the Purple Star has an actuation force of 43 grams. Those looking for a more substantial typing experience may prefer the Cloudy Shadow's heavier bottom out force, while those looking for a lighter touch may opt for the Purple Star. Both switches offer different typing experiences, with the Cloudy Shadow providing a medium-heavy feel and the Purple Star offering a lighter touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the individual's preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that both switches will provide a consistent keypress feel in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. Users can expect similar tactile feedback and typing experience from both switches due to their identical travel distances. Whether using the Cloudy Shadow or the Purple Star, you can rely on a comfortable keypress feel with a consistent travel distance for a seamless typing 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 KTT Purple Star comes in at $4.88 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 offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, which typically results in a bass-heavy and mellow tone ideal for a variety of typing environments. Similarly, the KTT Purple Star linear switch also provides a low-pitched sound, ensuring a smooth and unobtrusive typing experience. Both switches offer a pleasing auditory feedback that is unlikely to disrupt those around you, making them suitable for quiet working or gaming environments.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch is described as providing a mild typing experience that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone. This implies that the typing feel is gentle and approachable, appealing to users of varying preferences and skill levels. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star linear switch also offers a mild typing experience, emphasizing easy key presses with minimal force required for activation. This feature enhances typing comfort and reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions, making it an attractive option for users seeking a responsive and low-impact typing feel.
In conclusion, both the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch exhibit similar qualities in terms of sound and feel. Their low-pitched sound profiles ensure a pleasant typing experience, while their mild typing characteristics cater to a wide range of users. Whether you opt for the Cloudy Shadow or the Purple Star, you can expect a balanced and comfortable typing experience that aligns with the demands of modern keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound and typing feel, but rest assured that either choice will deliver satisfactory results.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when considering whether to choose the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch or the KTT Purple Star linear switch, you should keep in mind the differences in bottom-out force. If you prefer a more substantial typing experience with a medium-heavy 63.5g bottom-out force, the Cloudy Shadow may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a 50g bottom-out force, the Purple Star might be more suitable for your typing style. Additionally, if you prioritize a buttery smooth typing experience with a light actuation force, the Purple Star could be the ideal choice. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing habits.
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