Gateron Aliaz vs. Aflion Cloudy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the Aflion Cloudy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Aliaz and the Aflion Cloudy Shadow offer two distinct options for users seeking different typing experiences. The Aliaz switch is a tactile switch, best known for its quiet operation, medium-heavy weight, and pronounced typing feedback, making it ideal for quiet office environments. On the other hand, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow is a linear switch, gaining popularity for its neutral sound signature, bouncy feel, and 63.5g bottom-out force, providing a balanced typing experience. While the Aliaz switch offers a more tactile and substantial typing feedback, the Cloudy Shadow switch provides a smoother and more consistent typing experience. 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
60g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Aliaz and the Aflion Cloudy Shadow feature polycarbonate top housings, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile thanks to the stiffness of this material. Additionally, the translucent quality of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. However, while the Aliaz sticks with polycarbonate for its bottom housing as well, the Cloudy Shadow opts for a nylon bottom housing. Nylon offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound overall. This contrast in bottom housing materials may lead to a noticeable difference in typing experience between the two switches.
In terms of sound profile, the Gateron Aliaz's use of polycarbonate in both the top and bottom housing results in a consistent crisp and clear sound across the entire switch. On the other hand, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow's combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing may offer a more varied typing experience, with a sharper top-out sound and a deeper bottom-out sound. This difference in materials could appeal to different preferences in sound and feel while typing. Additionally, the choice between consistent sound profile or varied typing experience may play a role in the decision-making process for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Overall, the housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and the Aflion Cloudy Shadow play a significant role in determining the sound profile and typing experience of each switch. The stiffness of polycarbonate in the Aliaz results in a clearer and more resonant sound, while the softer nature of nylon in the Cloudy Shadow produces a deeper and fuller sound. Whether you prefer a consistent sound profile throughout the typing process or enjoy the variation in sound between the top and bottom of a switch, both options offer unique qualities to consider when selecting a mechanical keyboard switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two may come down to personal preference in sound and typing feel.
Weight
Comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch reveals some interesting differences. The Gateron Aliaz has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Cloudy Shadow's unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Aliaz requires 75 grams, which is heavier than the Cloudy Shadow's 63.5 grams. This means that the Aliaz is overall heavier in both actuation and bottom out forces compared to the Cloudy Shadow, which is lighter in comparison. In terms of weight preference, those who enjoy a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Cloudy Shadow, while those who prefer a heavier feel when typing may favor the Aliaz. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch, we see that the Aliaz has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Cloudy Shadow has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Aliaz has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Cloudy Shadow. The Aliaz with its 4 mm distance offers a more traditional key press feel, providing a bit more depth compared to the Cloudy Shadow's 3.5 mm travel distance, which may feel slightly shallower. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with gamers potentially favoring the shorter travel distance of the Cloudy Shadow for quicker response times, while others may prefer the longer travel distance of the Aliaz for a more substantial key press feeling. Both switches offer different experiences, so it's important to consider what type of key press sensation you are looking for before making a decision.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
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.
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
Overall, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch is characterized by its muted sound profile and silky, polished feel, making it a great choice for those seeking a quiet typing experience with smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch offers a low-pitched, neutral sound signature and a mild, bouncy feel due to the extended springs, providing a balanced typing experience with a moderate actuation force requirement. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Aliaz focusing on a quieter environment and a substantial keypress feel, while the Cloudy Shadow offers a more neutral sound and gentle typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and typing style, and either switch will provide a satisfying typing experience for those seeking a high-quality mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch, you should consider your environment and preference for typing feedback. If you are in a quiet setting like an office and enjoy a substantial feel with each keystroke, the Aliaz switch with its heavy bottom-out force may be your best choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a balanced typing experience with a bouncy feel and neutral sound signature, the Cloudy Shadow switch with its medium-heavy bottom-out force could be the ideal option for you. Ultimately, the decision comes down to whether you value a more pronounced typing feedback in a silent environment or a balanced typing experience with a bouncy feel and neutral sound profile.
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