Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. KTT Semi Mute
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the KTT Semi Mute switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch stand out as popular options with distinct characteristics. The Cloudy Shadow switches from Aflion are praised for their bouncy feel and neutral sound signature, offering a balanced typing experience with a 63.5g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the Semi Mute switches from KTT are designed for those seeking a noise-free environment, featuring completely silent operation and advanced dampening technology for a comfortable typing feel. While the Cloudy Shadow is categorized as low-pitched and mild, the Semi Mute is described as buttery and muted. Both switches have their unique selling points, but diving deeper into their specific features and performance will help you make an informed decision on the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the KTT Semi Mute, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the use of RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches. However, it is worth noting that despite the similarities in top housing material, the Cloudy Shadow utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Semi Mute sticks with polycarbonate for its bottom housing, maintaining a clear and resonant sound profile. This difference in bottom housing material may affect the overall sound experience of the switches.
On the one hand, the Cloudy Shadow's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound than the Semi Mute's polycarbonate bottom housing, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This means that typing on the Cloudy Shadow may provide a quieter and more muffled typing experience compared to the Semi Mute. On the other hand, both switches share the sharper and crisper sound profile created by their polycarbonate top housing. This ensures that regardless of the bottom housing material, users can expect a consistent sound quality when pressing down on the keys. The combination of different housing materials in the Cloudy Shadow and Semi Mute allows for a unique and customizable typing experience, catering to different preferences in sound and feel.
Ultimately, the split between the bottom and top housings in the Cloudy Shadow and Semi Mute impacts the overall sound and feel of the switches. The qualities of the housing materials manifest differently when pressing down on a key versus letting go of a key. The bottom housing plays a more significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a greater influence on the sound when the key is released. This split provides users with a dynamic typing experience, where they can appreciate the nuances of each housing material in different aspects of typing. Overall, the unique combination of housing materials in the Cloudy Shadow and Semi Mute offers users a diverse range of sound profiles and tactile feedback to suit their preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, we can see clear differences in weight preferences. The Cloudy Shadow switch has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it a medium-heavy option, while the actuation force remains unknown. On the other hand, the Semi Mute switch has a lower actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, making it a lighter and more medium-weight option. It is evident that the Cloudy Shadow switch offers a heavier typing experience compared to the Semi Mute switch. For those who prefer a stronger push feel, the Cloudy Shadow would be the ideal choice, whereas the Semi Mute switch would be more suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer periods of typing without fatigue. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for weight and typing feel.
Travel distance
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the KTT Semi Mute linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Cloudy Shadow offers a shorter distance, making it favored among gamers looking for quicker response times. On the other hand, the Semi Mute provides a slightly deeper key press, which some users may prefer for a more substantial feeling when typing. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, catering to those who appreciate a more concise keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for responsiveness versus tactile feedback.
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 Semi Mute has an MSRP of $3.97 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi Mute for $3.55.
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, which provides a bass-heavy and mellow tone with a moderate actuation force requirement suitable for various typing scenarios. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch is known for its muted and neutral sound, ensuring a quieter typing experience ideal for noise-sensitive environments. Both switches cater to individuals looking for a more subdued typing sound, with slight variations in tone and quietness. Ultimately, users can expect a similar level of noise reduction from both switches.
Moving on to the feel, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch delivers a mild typing experience, offering a gentle and approachable feel that appeals to a wide range of users. Meanwhile, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch provides a buttery and mild typing sensation, ensuring a smooth and effortless keystroke experience for comfortable typing sessions. Both switches aim to provide a pleasant tactile response without overpowering characteristics, making them suitable for individuals seeking a balanced and satisfying typing feel. Users can anticipate a similar level of tactility and comfort when using either switch.
Overall, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch each bring unique qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel. While the Cloudy Shadow excels in providing a bouncy and low-pitched sound with a mild typing feel, the Semi Mute focuses on delivering a silent operation and buttery typing sensation. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between these switches to enhance their typing experience. Regardless of the choice, individuals can expect a high level of quality and innovation from both Aflion and KTT switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are someone who values a noise-free environment and desires undisturbed typing, especially during late-night sessions, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. With its silent operation and comfortable linear actuation, these switches provide a gratifying typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a balanced typing experience with a slightly heavier bottom-out force and a bouncy feel, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on your specific typing needs and preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with what you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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