Aflion Blush vs. Aflion Cloudy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Aflion Blush and the Aflion Cloudy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Blush and Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switches stand out as popular options with their own unique features. The Blush switch is revered for its smooth, full, and snappy feel, thanks to its longer, two-stage spring design. With a long pole that produces a distinctive poppy sound, this switch is categorized as low-pitched, creamy, silky, and buttery. On the other hand, the Cloudy Shadow linear switch has gained rapid traction in the industry for its neutral sound signature and bouncy feel, attributed to the extended springs. Offering a balanced typing experience with a 63.5g bottom-out force, this switch is categorized as low-pitched, mild, and neutral. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different preferences; however, let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Dual-stage stainless steel spring
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Aflion Blush and Aflion Cloudy Shadow feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. This results in a more clear and resonant sound when typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, as the light can shine through the housing. This similarity means that both switches will deliver a similar auditory experience with a focus on clarity and precision.
Where the Aflion Blush and Aflion Cloudy Shadow differ is in their bottom housing material. The Blush utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use nylon. On the other hand, the Cloudy Shadow also features a nylon bottom housing, showcasing a similar typing experience with a focus on depth and resonance. The use of nylon in the bottom housing allows for a more impactful bottom-out sound and feel, emphasizing the tactile experience of typing on these switches.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in both the Aflion Blush and Aflion Cloudy Shadow provides a balance of clear, crisp sound with a deeper, fuller sound profile. The top housing influences the sound when releasing a key, while the bottom housing plays a crucial role in the bottom-out sound and feel. These differences in housing materials contribute to a unique typing experience for each switch, highlighting the importance of both the top and bottom housing in determining the overall sound profile and tactile feedback of a mechanical keyboard.
Weight
The Aflion Blush linear switch is lighter in terms of bottom out force compared to the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch. The Blush has a bottom out force of 58 grams, which is medium, while the Cloudy Shadow has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which is medium-heavy. Both switches have an unknown actuation force, but given their similar bottom out forces, users can expect a comparable typing experience in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke. When considering weight, some may prefer the lighter Blush switch for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may opt for the heavier Cloudy Shadow switch for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing force.
Travel distance
The Aflion Blush linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches have shorter travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm. Gamers may prefer the Blush switch with its slightly shorter travel distance for faster response times, while those looking for a more substantial key press may prefer the Cloudy Shadow switch with its longer travel distance. In general, the Blush switch would provide a slightly quicker response, while the Cloudy Shadow switch may offer a more deliberate key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key press feel and response time.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Aflion Blush has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Blush 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
Overall, when comparing the subjective qualities of the Aflion Blush linear switch and the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch, it can be observed that both switches offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel. The Blush switch is known for its low-pitched and poppy sound signature, along with a creamy, silky, and buttery feel that provides a smooth and buttery typing experience. On the other hand, the Cloudy Shadow switch has a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, paired with a mild feel that offers a more gentle typing experience. Despite these differences, both switches deliver a balanced typing experience with their extended springs and smooth actuation, catering to a wide range of users. Ultimately, whether you choose the Blush or Cloudy Shadow switch, you can expect a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience that reflects Aflion's commitment to quality and innovation in the mechanical keyboard industry.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the Aflion Blush and Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switches, it comes down to your personal preferences. If you prioritize a smooth, snappy typing experience with a poppy sound signature and a slightly lower bottom-out force of 58 grams, then the Blush switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a balanced typing experience with a bouncy feel and a neutral sound signature, along with a slightly higher bottom-out force of 63.5 grams, then the Cloudy Shadow switch would be the better option. Consider your typing style, noise preferences, and desired keystroke feel when making your decision. Both switches offer high-quality features, so you can't go wrong with either choice.
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