Dareu Aqua vs. Aflion Cloudy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the Aflion Cloudy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Aqua linear switch to the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch, it is evident that both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Dareu Aqua stands out with its super light 37g actuation force, providing a chirpy and clacky sound signature that is easy-to-press and feathery. On the other hand, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow boasts a neutral sound signature and bouncy feel, thanks to its extended springs and 63.5g bottom-out force. While the Aqua may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch, the Cloudy Shadow offers a balanced typing experience for those seeking a quality switch. 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
37g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Aqua and the Aflion Cloudy Shadow both feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when typing. Polycarbonate is known for being a relatively stiff plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, both keyboards also have nylon bottom housings, which create a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic nature that absorbs more sound. While the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
Despite the differences in their top and bottom housing materials, the Dareu Aqua and the Aflion Cloudy Shadow offer similar sound profiles due to the combination of polycarbonate and nylon. The polycarbonate top housings of both keyboards produce sharper and crisper sound characteristics, while the nylon bottom housings provide a deeper and fuller sound experience. These qualities are split between the top and bottom of the switch, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing affecting the sound upon key release. Therefore, users can expect a well-rounded auditory experience from both keyboards.
Overall, the choice between the Dareu Aqua and the Aflion Cloudy Shadow may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile. The polycarbonate top housing of both keyboards offers a clear and resonant sound, ideal for those who prefer a sharper typing experience. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, catering to users who enjoy a more muted typing feel. Regardless of the differences in housing materials, both keyboards offer a high-quality typing experience with unique sound profiles that cater to a variety of preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch, it is evident that they have different characteristics. The Aqua switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a lighter feel when typing or gaming for extended periods. In contrast, the Cloudy Shadow switch has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. While the actuation force for the Cloudy Shadow switch is unknown, the difference in bottom out force demonstrates that it is a heavier option compared to the Aqua switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing or gaming experiences.
Travel distance
The Dareu Aqua linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Aqua has a slightly longer travel distance, which may appeal to those who prefer more depth in their key presses. On the other hand, the Cloudy Shadow has a slightly shorter travel distance, making it a better choice for those looking for quicker response times, such as gamers. Both switches offer different experiences in terms of key press depth, with the Aqua providing a more traditional feel and the Cloudy Shadow offering a slightly shallower press. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for key press depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Aqua has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aqua for $3.76.
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 Dareu Aqua linear switch stands out with its chirpy and clacky sound signature, offering a unique and lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch provides a more neutral and mellow sound profile, catering to users looking for a quieter typing experience. Both switches offer distinct auditory feedback, allowing users to choose based on their preference for a more vibrant or subdued sound during typing sessions. Depending on the user's setup and keycaps, the sound produced by these switches can be further personalized to suit individual tastes.
When it comes to feel, the Dareu Aqua switch is known for its easy-to-press and feathery qualities, providing a light and responsive typing experience that minimizes finger fatigue. In contrast, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow switch offers a mild typing experience that is gentle and approachable for most users. The extended springs in the Cloudy Shadow switches add a bouncy feel to the keystrokes, enhancing the overall typing comfort and making it suitable for extended typing sessions. Whether users prefer a light and effortless feel or a more moderate and comfortable typing experience, both switches offer unique tactile feedback that can improve overall typing performance.
In conclusion, the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch offer distinctive qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the Aqua switch provides a chirpy and easy-to-press typing experience, the Cloudy Shadow switch offers a neutral and mild feel with a bouncy touch. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between these switches to enhance their typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer quality and innovation in the mechanical keyboard market, allowing users to customize their typing setup to suit their unique preferences and needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when it comes to choosing between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch, the Aqua would be your go-to option if you prefer a super light 37g actuation force, along with a distinctive chirpy and clacky sound signature. This switch is ideal for those who favor a lighter touch and enjoy a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Cloudy Shadow would be more suitable for you if you prefer a balanced typing experience with a 63.5g bottom-out force, along with a neutral sound signature and bouncy feel due to the extended springs. This switch offers a more moderate and approachable typing feel that caters to a wider range of preferences. Ultimately, your choice between the Dareu Aqua and Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switches will depend on whether you prioritize a light touch and unique sound profile or seek a more balanced and versatile typing experience.
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