TTC Light Cloud V2 vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch to the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, it is clear that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Light Cloud V2 is renowned for its refined and silent typing experience, making it an ideal choice for those who enjoy a delicate and nuanced feel while typing. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow stands out for its neutral sound profile and distinctive bounce from the extended spring, providing a comfortable medium-light typing experience. While the Light Cloud V2 is categorized as mild, muted, neutral, easy to press, and feathery, the Windy Shadow falls under low-pitched, mild, and neutral. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide which switch is right for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.20 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated double-staged spring
Spring
19.7mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Aflion Windy Shadow, it is clear that both switches use nylon for their bottom housing. This means that typing on switches that use nylon elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. As a result, both switches offer a duller and rounder sound experience due to the properties of nylon. However, despite the similarities in the bottom housing material, the differences in the top housing materials, with the Light Cloud V2 using nylon and the Windy Shadow using polycarbonate, will lead to distinct auditory experiences for users.
The Light Cloud V2's usage of nylon for the top housing results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, offering a unique typing experience. In contrast, the Windy Shadow's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, which differs significantly from the sound produced by nylon. Furthermore, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the integration of RGB lighting, making the Windy Shadow aesthetically appealing for users who enjoy customizable lighting effects. Ultimately, the choice between the Light Cloud V2 and the Windy Shadow will depend on the user's preference for sound profile and design features.
When considering the impact of housing materials on switch performance, it is important to note that the qualities of the top and bottom housings are distinct and will affect typing experiences differently. The bottom housing material, in this case nylon for both switches, plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. Conversely, the top housing material, whether nylon or polycarbonate, will impact the sound when a key is released. Therefore, users can expect a nuanced typing experience based on the combination of materials used in the top and bottom housings of switches like the Light Cloud V2 and the Windy Shadow.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch vary in weight. The Light Cloud V2 has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Windy Shadow, which does not have a specified actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the Windy Shadow is lighter at 55 grams, while the Light Cloud V2 has a bottom out force of 58 grams. Both switches fall into the medium to medium-light category, offering a balance between typing comfort and tactile feedback. When it comes to weight preference, those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Windy Shadow for extended typing or gaming sessions, while individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Light Cloud V2. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the travel distance of these two switches, it is clear that they offer the same amount of key travel experience. This means that whether you choose the Light Cloud V2 or the Windy Shadow, you can expect to get similar results in terms of key press feel and responsiveness. Both switches provide a consistent and satisfying typing experience with a travel distance that is neither too short nor too long, striking a balance that appeals to many users.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Light Cloud V2 has an MSRP of $6.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Cloud V2 for $5.49.
The Aflion Windy 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 Windy Shadow for $3.91.
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
The TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch is renowned for its muted sound profile, providing a softer and quieter typing experience compared to other switches. This makes it an excellent choice for users who prefer a more subtle typing sound. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch offers a low-pitched sound that is more bass-heavy and mellow, creating a distinct typing atmosphere. Both switches have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various environments and preferences, whether you are a beginner or experienced user.
When it comes to feel, both the Light Cloud V2 and the Windy Shadow switches are described as providing a mild typing experience, offering a gentle and approachable feel for most users. The Light Cloud V2 is praised for its easy-to-press keys, requiring minimal force for activation, thus reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. This feathery switch also ensures a comfortable typing experience for tasks such as gaming, school, or work. Similarly, the Windy Shadow switch offers a mild typing sensation, allowing for a comfortable typing experience without any extreme characteristics that may not be suitable for all users.
In conclusion, both the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Light Cloud V2 excels in providing a muted sound profile and easy-to-press keys, while the Windy Shadow switch stands out with its low-pitched sound and mild typing experience. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, either of these switches can provide a satisfying typing experience. It is essential to consider factors such as keycaps and keyboard build when choosing between these switches to achieve the desired typing sensation. Ultimately, both switches offer similar qualities in terms of sound and feel, ensuring that users will achieve comparable results regardless of their choice.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch or the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom-out force and a muted sound profile with a delicate and nuanced typing experience, the Light Cloud V2 may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you lean towards a lighter bottom-out force and a low-pitched sound profile with a distinctive bounce from an extended spring, the Windy Shadow could be a better fit. Both switches offer a neutral feel, making them suitable for various typing intents and purposes. Consider your typing preferences and needs when making your decision between these two linear switches.
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