Everglide Aqua King (V3) vs. Aflion Cloudy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Aflion Cloudy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Aflion Cloudy Shadow mechanical keyboard switches, it's clear that both offer unique features and qualities worth considering. The Aqua King (V3) stands out for its smooth and frictionless typing experience, akin to gliding on ice. With characteristics like 'Subdued', 'Creamy', and 'Polished', this switch promises a magical feel while typing. On the other hand, the Cloudy Shadow by Aflion boasts a neutral sound signature and a bouncy feel, thanks to its extended springs and 63.5g bottom-out force. Categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Mild', and 'Neutral', these switches provide a balanced 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
46g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
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
Yes
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
Gold-plated
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Aflion Cloudy Shadow both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, these switches offer a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially beneficial if RGB lighting is a feature you desire. On the other hand, the Cloudy Shadow's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the Aqua King's polycarbonate bottom housing.
While both the Aqua King (V3) and the Aflion Cloudy Shadow utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, providing similar sharp, high-pitched sound profiles, they differ in their choice of bottom housing material. The Aqua King's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the clear and resonant sound profile associated with this material, while the Cloudy Shadow's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound. The split between the top and bottom housing materials results in a unique sound experience when typing on these switches, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing influencing the sound when releasing a key.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Aflion Cloudy Shadow play a significant role in shaping the sound profile and overall typing experience of these switches. While both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and clear sound, the Aqua King's polycarbonate bottom housing complements this with a similar sound profile, while the Cloudy Shadow's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound. Understanding the impact of different housing materials on the sound and feel of switches can help in making an informed decision based on personal preferences for typing experience and sound aesthetics.
Weight
In comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch, it can be seen that the Aqua King has a lighter actuation force of 46 grams compared to the Cloudy Shadow which has an unknown actuation force. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Aqua King has a slightly lighter force of 62 grams, while the Cloudy Shadow has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams. Both switches fall into the medium to medium-heavy range of force, providing a balanced typing experience for users. The Aqua King may be better suited for those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions, while the Cloudy Shadow offers a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it slightly longer than the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch which has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. If you're someone who prefers a bit more depth in the key press, the Aqua King may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you value a quicker response time and a shallower press, the Cloudy Shadow could be more to your liking. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, so you can expect similar results in terms of overall feel when typing or gaming, with slight variations in the depth of the key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable to you.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) has an MSRP of $7.18 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aqua King (V3) for $5.44.
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
In terms of sound, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and Aflion Cloudy Shadow switches offer different experiences. The Aqua King (V3) provides a subdued sound when pressed, offering a more subtle sound signature that is not completely silent. On the other hand, the Cloudy Shadow switches have a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, featuring a more bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for most intents and purposes. The sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and Aflion Cloudy Shadow switches also exhibit distinct qualities. The Aqua King (V3) is known for its creamy, frictionless, silky, and polished feel, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance or friction. Conversely, the Cloudy Shadow switches offer a mild typing experience, making it a more gentle option compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Both switches offer a balanced typing experience, catering to different preferences in terms of typing feel.
In conclusion, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switches offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. The Aqua King (V3) provides a frictionless and creamy typing experience with a subdued sound, while the Cloudy Shadow switches offer a mild feel with a low-pitched and neutral sound profile. Depending on your preference for typing feel and sound, both switches provide quality options that will enhance your overall typing experience. If you enjoy smooth and effortless typing, the Aqua King (V3) may be the way to go, while those looking for a balanced and gentle feel may prefer the Cloudy Shadow switches. Ultimately, it's important to consider your own preferences and needs when choosing between these two excellent linear switches.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and typing style. If you prioritize a smooth, frictionless typing experience reminiscent of gliding on ice, then the Aqua King (V3) may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a balanced typing experience with a bouncy feel and neutral sound signature, the Cloudy Shadow could be the ideal choice. Consider factors such as bottom out force, sound profile, and overall feel when making your decision, and remember that both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on what you value most in a keyboard switch.
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