Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the TTC Speed Silver mechanical keyboard switches, both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Cloudy Shadow stands out for its neutral sound signature and bouncy feel, thanks to the extended springs which provide a balanced typing experience with a 63.5g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the Speed Silver is renowned for its fast and precise typing experience, with a light-medium level of resistance and a reduced travel distance for quick and effortless actuation. While the Cloudy Shadow is best suited for those seeking a low-pitched and mild typing experience, the Speed Silver is ideal for individuals looking for a neutral and polished 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
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and TTC Speed Silver feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate plastic enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced by the switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous for switches that utilize RGB lighting, as it allows for the passage of light through the housing. This makes both switches ideal for users looking for a visually appealing and sonically satisfying typing experience.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housings. The Cloudy Shadow features a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, providing users with the same deep and full sound experience as the Cloudy Shadow. This similarity in bottom housing material ensures that both switches deliver a consistent typing experience across the board.
In terms of functionality, the qualities of each housing material are distributed differently between the top and bottom housings of the switches. When typing on the Cloudy Shadow or Speed Silver, users will feel the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Conversely, the top housing will have more of an impact on the sound when releasing a key. This distribution allows for a balanced typing experience that incorporates the unique characteristics of both the polycarbonate and nylon housing materials.
Weight
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch, while the TTC Speed Silver linear switch has a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it medium-light. The actuation force of the Cloudy Shadow is not specified, whereas the Speed Silver has an actuation force of 45 grams. In terms of weight, the Speed Silver is lighter than the Cloudy Shadow. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Speed Silver more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may prefer the heavier bottom out force of the Cloudy Shadow. Both switches offer a different feel based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to individual preferences for typing and gaming experiences.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch is 3.5 mm, slightly longer than the TTC Speed Silver linear switch with a travel distance of 3.4 mm. While both switches offer a shorter travel distance compared to the traditional 4.0 mm, the Cloudy Shadow provides a slightly deeper press than the Speed Silver. Gamers may prefer the Cloudy Shadow for its slightly longer travel distance, allowing for a more deliberate key press, while those looking for quicker response times may opt for the Speed Silver. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for key feel and responsiveness.
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 Speed Silver has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Speed Silver for $4.58.
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, characterized by a bass-heavy and mellow tone with a moderate actuation force requirement. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch also provides a neutral sound profile, suitable for most purposes, with a light-medium resistance level. Both switches offer a pleasant typing experience in terms of sound, with the Cloudy Shadow leaning towards a lower pitch and the Speed Silver maintaining a more neutral tone.
Moving on to feel, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch delivers a mild typing experience, offering a more gentle feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The extended springs in these switches provide a bouncy and balanced typing experience with a 63.5g bottom-out force. Conversely, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch also offers a mild typing experience with a polished finish. This results in smooth and refined key travel, reducing friction and providing a sleek typing experience. Both switches offer approachable qualities in terms of feel, with the Cloudy Shadow focusing on a balanced and bouncy feel, while the Speed Silver emphasizes smooth and polished key travel.
In conclusion, both the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Cloudy Shadow excels in providing a low-pitched and bouncy typing experience, the Speed Silver stands out with its neutral sound profile and polished feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on personal preference regarding sound pitch and typing experience finish. However, both switches are designed to provide a pleasant and balanced typing experience, ensuring that users will get similar results in terms of overall satisfaction.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, consider your preference for typing force and speed. If you prefer a medium-heavy typing force with a bouncier feel, the Cloudy Shadow with its 63.5g bottom out force may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you value a fast and precise typing experience with a lighter typing force of 55g, the Speed Silver switch may suit your needs better. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns with your preferences for typing force and speed to enhance your overall typing experience.
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