Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. KTT Rose
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the KTT Rose switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the KTT Rose both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Cloudy Shadow, a linear switch, is praised for its neutral sound signature and bouncy feel provided by extended springs, resulting in a balanced typing experience with a 63.5g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the Rose, also a linear switch, stands out for its use of progressive springs that offer a substantial yet not heavy typing experience, often likened to hearing bassy raindrops while typing. While the Cloudy Shadow is categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Mild', and 'Neutral', the Rose is categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal, making them suitable for 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
Both the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the KTT Rose feature polycarbonate top housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to other housing materials. The translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switches. This material's stiffness creates a clear and resonant sound, making it a popular choice for switch housings.
In contrast, while both switches have nylon bottom housings, they offer a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This material choice impacts the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, providing a different typing experience compared to the polycarbonate top housing.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in both the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the KTT Rose offers a unique typing experience. The split qualities between the top and bottom housings allow for a dynamic sound profile when typing on these switches. Whether it's the crisper sound from the polycarbonate top or the deeper sound from the nylon bottom, users can enjoy a varied typing experience with these housing materials.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch, it is evident that they both have the same actuation force of None grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, both switches have a weight of 63.5 grams, making them equally medium-heavy in this aspect. The actuation force and bottom out force of a switch are important factors to consider when choosing the right one for one's typing preference. Some may prefer a lighter actuation force for extended typing sessions or gaming, while others may prefer a heavier bottom out force for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, both the Cloudy Shadow and the Rose switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of force requirements, allowing users to achieve comparable results with either option.
Travel distance
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it the shorter option compared to the KTT Rose linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may lean towards the Cloudy Shadow due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key press depth may opt for the Rose with its longer travel distance. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their varying travel distances, so selecting between the two ultimately depends on personal preference.
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 Rose comes in at $3.01 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
When it comes to sound, both the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and KTT Rose linear switches are described as having a low-pitched and neutral sound profile. This means that they offer a bass-heavy and mellow tone with a moderate actuation force requirement, making them suitable for a variety of users and purposes. The sound of a switch can also be affected by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used. In terms of feel, the Cloudy Shadow provides a mild typing experience, offering a gentle feel that is approachable to most users. On the other hand, the Rose switch also offers a mild feel but is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, both the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and KTT Rose linear switches offer similar sound profiles with a low-pitched and neutral tone. They both provide a mild typing experience that is comfortable for most users. While the Cloudy Shadow has a bouncy feel due to extended springs, the Rose offers a uniquely substantial typing experience with progressive springs. Ultimately, choosing between these switches would depend on individual preferences for feel and any additional features they may offer. Nevertheless, users can expect a balanced and enjoyable typing experience with either of these switches.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you value a bouncy feel with a neutral sound signature and a balanced typing experience, the Cloudy Shadow with its 63.5g bottom-out force may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a uniquely substantial yet not heavy typing experience with a bass-heavy and mellow tone, the Rose linear switch with progressive springs offering a polished and refined finish might be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you are looking for.
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