Kailh Berry vs. Aflion Cloudy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Kailh Berry and the Aflion Cloudy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Kailh Berry linear switch to the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch, it's clear that both offer unique qualities for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Kailh Berry switch is known for its hefty typing experience, springy feel, and chalk-like texture, along with a fairly deep sound profile categorized as 'Textured', 'Low-pitched', 'Bassy'. On the other hand, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow switch stands out for its neutral sound signature, bouncy feel from extended springs, and balanced typing experience with a 63.5g bottom-out force, categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Mild', 'Neutral'. Each switch has its own strengths and qualities that may appeal to 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Berry and the Aflion Cloudy Shadow, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. Additionally, polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting as its translucency allows the lighting to shine through. Therefore, both switches will provide a similar sound experience and aesthetic appeal when it comes to the top housing material.
In contrast, the Berry and the Cloudy Shadow differ in their choice of material for the bottom housing. The Berry features a nylon bottom housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Cloudy Shadow also uses nylon for its bottom housing, meaning that both switches will offer a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the properties of the nylon material.
Overall, while the Kailh Berry and the Aflion Cloudy Shadow share similar top housing materials with polycarbonate, they differ in their bottom housing materials with nylon. The top housing material primarily impacts the sound when a key is released, while the bottom housing material has a greater impact on the sound and feel when a key is pressed down. Despite the differences in their bottom housing material, both switches will provide a unique typing experience that combines the qualities of their respective housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Berry switch has an actuation force of None grams, making it light in terms of initial keystroke pressure. In contrast, the Cloudy Shadow also has a None gram actuation force, offering a similar light touch. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Berry switch requires 70 grams of force, which is slightly heavier than the Cloudy Shadow's 63.5 grams. This means that while both switches start with a light touch, the Berry switch provides a heavier typing experience when fully pressed. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on whether one prefers a lighter initial touch for extended typing sessions or a more substantial feel for a more tactile typing experience.
Travel distance
The Kailh Berry linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal choices for gamers looking for quick response times. The 0.1 mm difference between the two may not be significant for most users, but those who prefer a slightly deeper key press may lean towards the Kailh Berry switch. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more shallow and quicker keystroke may find the Aflion Cloudy Shadow switch more to their liking. Overall, both switches offer similar results in terms of travel distance, with minor variations that cater to different preferences.
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 Kailh Berry comes in at $6.25 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
When it comes to sound, the Kailh Berry linear switch is known for its low-pitched and bassy characteristics, providing a deep and rich tone during key presses. On the other hand, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch has a more neutral sound profile, offering a moderate sound that is suitable for various environments and preferences. Both switches offer different sound experiences, with the Berry leaning towards a deeper tone and the Cloudy Shadow providing a more balanced and neutral sound.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Berry linear switch is described as having a textured feel, which means that there is noticeable friction when pressing the keys. This texture can add a tactile element to the typing experience, which some users may prefer. On the other hand, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch offers a mild feel, providing a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. The extended springs in the Cloudy Shadow contribute to a bouncy feel, adding a unique touch to the typing experience.
Overall, the Kailh Berry and Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switches offer distinctive qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Berry switch provides a deeper and textured typing experience, while the Cloudy Shadow switch offers a more balanced and neutral sound profile with a bouncy and approachable feel. Depending on personal preference and typing style, users can choose between these switches to achieve their desired typing experience. Both switches provide high-quality options in the linear switch category, ensuring that users will get satisfying results with either choice.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Kailh Berry linear switch or the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what you prioritize in a switch. If you prefer a heavier bottom-out force and enjoy a springy and chalk-like texture while typing, along with a deeper and bassy sound profile, then the Berry switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter bottom-out force with a bouncy feel due to extended springs and a neutral sound signature, along with a mild and approachable typing experience, then the Cloudy Shadow switch could be the preferred choice. Consider your typing style, sound preference, and overall feel when making your decision between these two linear switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so you can't go wrong with either choice.
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