Aflion Blue Sky vs. Aflion Cloudy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blue Sky and the Aflion Cloudy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When deciding between mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Blue Sky and Aflion Cloudy Shadow both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Blue Sky is a linear switch known for its long pole stem, providing a crystal clear typing experience with a sparkling sound profile and smooth push feel. Categorized as 'High-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished', this switch is ideal for those who enjoy a precise and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the Cloudy Shadow linear switch has gained rapid traction in the industry with its neutral sound signature and bouncy feel, thanks to extended springs. With a 63.5g bottom-out force, this switch offers a balanced typing experience. Categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Mild', and 'Neutral', the Cloudy Shadow is a great choice for those seeking a comfortable and responsive 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
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Blue Sky and Aflion Cloudy Shadow both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. This results in a more clear and resonant sound quality, making it ideal for switches that will be used with RGB lighting. In contrast, the nylon bottom housings of both switches offer a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. While both switches share similar qualities in their respective top and bottom housings, the Blue Sky and Cloudy Shadow provide a balance of sharpness and depth in their overall sound profiles.
However, the Blue Sky and Cloudy Shadow differ in the material used for their bottom housing. The Blue Sky utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Cloudy Shadow also employs nylon for its bottom housing. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on both switches, as nylon's softer characteristics absorb more sound compared to harder plastics. Despite this difference in the bottom housing material, both switches offer a consistent typing experience that combines the sharpness of polycarbonate in the top housing with the depth of nylon in the bottom housing.
Overall, the Aflion Blue Sky and Aflion Cloudy Shadow showcase how the choice of housing materials can impact the sound profile of mechanical switches. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharper sound and nylon bottom housings for a deeper sound, they offer a unique balance of qualities that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer a crisper and resonant sound or a fuller and rounder sound, both switches provide a versatile typing experience that highlights the importance of housing materials in the overall design of mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The Aflion Blue Sky linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Cloudy Shadow has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams compared to the Blue Sky's 60 grams. Both switches fall into the medium to medium-heavy category in terms of force required. Those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions may lean towards the Blue Sky, while users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Cloudy Shadow. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Aflion Blue Sky 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 Blue Sky switch offers a traditional travel distance, providing a balance between depth and responsiveness. In contrast, the Cloudy Shadow switch has a shorter travel distance, making it ideal for those seeking quick and precise key presses, such as gamers. Choosing between the two switches ultimately depends on personal preference – if you prefer a deeper feel when typing, the Blue Sky switch may be more suitable, while the Cloudy Shadow switch would be better for those who prioritize faster response times. Both switches offer unique benefits based on their travel distance, allowing users to tailor their typing experience to their specific needs.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Aflion Blue Sky has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Blue Sky for $4.07.
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
When it comes to sound, the Aflion Blue Sky offers a high-pitched and crystalline sound profile, which can be sharp and crisp for those who prefer a brighter tone. On the other hand, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow presents a low-pitched sound that is more bass-heavy and mellow, providing a more relaxed auditory experience. Both switches are described as having neutral sound profiles overall, making them versatile for various settings and preferences. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, both the Aflion Blue Sky and Cloudy Shadow switches offer a mild typing experience, which is gentle and approachable for most users. The Blue Sky switch is noted for its polished feel, providing a smooth and refined typing experience that reduces friction and enhances key travel. Conversely, the Cloudy Shadow switch does not have a specific descriptor for feel, but being categorized as mild suggests it offers a comfortable typing sensation without extreme characteristics. Overall, both switches promise a balanced typing experience with their linear design and moderate feel.
In conclusion, the Aflion Blue Sky and Cloudy Shadow linear switches each bring unique qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel. The Blue Sky stands out for its high-pitched sound and polished feel, while the Cloudy Shadow offers a low-pitched sound and a mild typing experience. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience. If you enjoy neutral sound profiles and a smooth typing feel, you can expect similar results with either of these Aflion linear switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Aflion Blue Sky linear switch and the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch, consider the differences in bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a slightly lighter switch with a crystal clear linear typing experience and a high-pitched sound, the Blue Sky may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a slightly heavier bottom out force, a neutral sound profile with a low-pitched tone, and a bouncy feel due to extended springs, the Cloudy Shadow could be more to your liking. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and actuation force.
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