Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. Outemu Peach
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Outemu Peach switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Outemu Peach are both linear mechanical keyboard switches with their own unique features. The Cloudy Shadow, with its neutral sound signature and bouncy feel due to extended springs, offers a balanced typing experience with a 63.5g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the Outemu Peach is known for being very lightweight and silenced, providing linear lovers with a feathery light typing experience. While the Cloudy Shadow is categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Mild', and 'Neutral', the Peach falls under categories such as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Muted', 'Subtle', and 'Polished'. Both switches have their own strengths and advantages, making them suitable for different preferences and needs. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Outemu Peach, it is evident that they both feature a nylon bottom housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches. This characteristic is consistent for both switches and highlights the importance of the bottom housing in determining the overall sound and feel of the switch.
Where the two switches differ is in their top housing material. The Cloudy Shadow utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. On the other hand, the Peach features a nylon top housing, which absorbs more sound and leads to a duller and rounder sound. This contrast in top housing materials directly impacts the sound produced when pressing down on the switch and when releasing a key.
Overall, while the bottom housing of both the Cloudy Shadow and the Peach shares similar characteristics in terms of creating a deeper sound profile, the differences in their top housing materials result in distinct sound profiles. The use of polycarbonate in the Cloudy Shadow creates a sharper and clearer sound, while the nylon top housing of the Peach produces a duller and rounder sound. These differences highlight the importance of housing materials in determining the overall sound and feel of mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Outemu Peach linear switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The Cloudy Shadow has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which is considered medium-heavy, while its actuation force is unknown. In contrast, the Peach switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. The Cloudy Shadow provides a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force, while the Peach switch offers a lighter touch, making it ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on whether the user prefers a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Peach linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter travel distance range, making them suitable for those who prioritize quick responsiveness. Gamers, in particular, may appreciate the shorter travel distance for faster reaction times during gameplay. However, for those who enjoy a deeper key press feel, the slightly longer travel distance of the Cloudy Shadow switch may provide a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Outemu Peach comes in at $3.40 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
In terms of sound, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for most typing environments. On the other hand, the Outemu Peach linear switch also has a neutral sound profile but is described as muted, offering a softer and quieter typing experience. Both switches provide a pleasant sound experience, with the Cloudy Shadow being more low-pitched and the Peach being more muted.
When it comes to feel, both the Cloudy Shadow and the Outemu Peach linear switches are described as offering a mild typing experience. This means that they provide a gentle and approachable feel, suitable for most users. The Peach switch goes a step further by being subtle and polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Overall, both switches offer a comfortable and pleasant typing experience, with the Peach switch providing a slightly more polished feel compared to the Cloudy Shadow.
In conclusion, both the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Outemu Peach linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Cloudy Shadow provides a low-pitched and neutral sound with a balanced typing experience, the Peach switch offers a muted sound profile and a subtle, polished feel for a feathery light typing experience. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, both switches are great options for linear switch enthusiasts looking for a quality typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Outemu Peach linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and a neutral sound profile, the Cloudy Shadow would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a silent typing experience, the Outemu Peach would be more suitable. Both switches offer a mild typing experience, so ultimately, it comes down to whether you prioritize weight or sound in your decision-making process. Consider these factors and choose the switch that best aligns with your preferences for a satisfying typing experience.
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