Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. TTC Silent Frozen (V2)
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
One of the key differences between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) mechanical keyboard switches lies in their sound profiles and tactile feedback. The Cloudy Shadow, a linear switch, is praised for its bouncy feel and neutral sound signature, making it a popular choice for those seeking a balanced typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch is known for its extremely quiet operation and smooth, pillowy feel, offering a different typing sensation. While the Cloudy Shadow appeals to users looking for a mild and neutral typing experience, the Silent Frozen (V2) caters to those who prioritize a silent, creamy, and buttery feel while typing. 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
39g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
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
Silver white spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2), both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches due to polycarbonate's stiffer nature. Additionally, the translucent quality of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the switches. However, the Cloudy Shadow differs in its use of nylon for the bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than polycarbonate. In contrast, the Silent Frozen (V2) sticks with polycarbonate for its bottom housing as well, ensuring a consistent sound profile throughout the switch.
While both switches share similarities in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing, the Cloudy Shadow's inclusion of nylon for the bottom housing sets it apart from the Silent Frozen (V2). The choice of nylon in the bottom housing of the Cloudy Shadow results in a more muted and rounder sound profile compared to the sharper and crisper sound produced by the Silent Frozen (V2)'s polycarbonate bottom housing. This difference in bottom housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience and sound feedback for users of each switch. Additionally, the Cloudy Shadow's unique combination of housing materials may offer a more varied tactile experience compared to the Silent Frozen (V2).
In terms of performance, the bottom housing material of a switch influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing a key, while the top housing material has a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. As such, the Cloudy Shadow's use of nylon for the bottom housing may provide a different typing feel and sound experience compared to the Silent Frozen (V2), which features polycarbonate for both top and bottom housings. Despite these differences, both switches ultimately aim to deliver a satisfying typing experience with their carefully chosen housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch, the most noticeable difference lies in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Cloudy Shadow has an actuation force of None grams, meaning it requires very little force to trigger a keystroke, while it has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen (V2) has an actuation force of 39 grams, making it lighter than the Cloudy Shadow, and a bottom out force of 43 grams, which is also on the lighter side. This makes the Silent Frozen (V2) more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch, ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Cloudy Shadow is better suited for individuals who prefer a heavier push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer unique typing experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences and needs.
Travel distance
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent and uniform typing experience in terms of travel distance, making them ideal choices for those who prefer a specific key feel. Overall, the travel distance of these two switches is equal, ensuring similar results when using either one for typing or gaming.
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 TTC Silent Frozen (V2) has an MSRP of $8.61 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Frozen (V2) for $5.33.
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, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch is known for its low-pitched and neutral sound profile, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone that suits various typing environments. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch is characterized by a thocky, low-pitched, and muted sound that minimizes noise and provides a deep, satisfying auditory experience. Both switches offer unique sound signatures that cater to different preferences and settings, ensuring a pleasant typing experience without disturbing others.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch provides a mild and bouncy typing experience, offering a gentle and approachable feel that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch is described as creamy, buttery, feathery, subtle, and polished, providing a smooth and effortless typing sensation that reduces finger fatigue and enhances overall comfort during extended typing sessions. Both switches offer distinct tactile feedback and typing experiences, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences and typing style.
Overall, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch each bring unique qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel. While the Cloudy Shadow offers a balanced and bouncy typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the Silent Frozen (V2) excels in providing an extremely quiet sound profile and a smooth, pillowy feel. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. Regardless of choice, both switches promise a high-quality typing experience that caters to different user needs and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch, consider the factors that are most important to you. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom-out force and a bouncy typing experience with a neutral sound profile, then the Cloudy Shadow may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a light bottom-out force, extremely quiet sound profile, and a smooth, pillowy typing feel, then the Silent Frozen (V2) could be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style, preferences, and the specific characteristics that matter most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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