Gateron Box CJ vs. Aflion Cloudy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Aflion Cloudy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Box CJ and the Aflion Cloudy Shadow mechanical keyboard switches, it's clear that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Box CJ is known for its swift characteristics and higher-pitched clacks, providing typists with a smooth push feel that glides effortlessly. On the other hand, the Cloudy Shadow by Aflion offers a neutral sound signature and bouncy feel due to extended springs, resulting in a balanced typing experience with a 63.5g bottom-out force. While the Box CJ is ideal for those seeking rapid response and customization options with unlubed switches, the Cloudy Shadow offers a quality and innovative typing experience with a slightly heavier bottom-out force. 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
57g
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
15.4mm single-stage spring
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Box CJ and the Aflion Cloudy Shadow both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for RGB lighting, making it a popular choice for those looking to customize the aesthetics of their keyboard switches. Although both switches share this common material in their top housings, the impact of the top housing on the sound when releasing a key may vary between the two models.
On the other hand, the nylon bottom housings of the Box CJ and the Cloudy Shadow offer a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the polycarbonate top housings. Nylon is known for being a softer material that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use nylon bottom housings. Despite the differences in their bottom housings, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with their unique sound profiles that are influenced by the materials used in their construction.
In conclusion, the Gateron Box CJ and the Aflion Cloudy Shadow showcase a blend of material choices in their housing design to provide users with a distinct sound profile for their typing experience. While both switches share the use of polycarbonate in their top housings, the nylon bottom housings offer a deeper and fuller sound that complements the overall typing feel. Whether you prefer a sharper and crisper sound from the polycarbonate top housing or a deeper and fuller sound from the nylon bottom housing, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the Box CJ is also lighter at 57 grams, while the Cloudy Shadow has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams. The Box CJ provides a medium-light typing experience, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch, while the Cloudy Shadow offers a medium-heavy feel, ideal for users who enjoy a more substantial push. Both switches have their own advantages based on the user's preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch have different travel distances. The Box CJ has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Cloudy Shadow has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Box CJ has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Cloudy Shadow. In general, a longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying tactile feedback, while a shorter travel distance is preferred for faster response times, especially by gamers. So, if you prefer a deeper keypress feel, the Box CJ might be the better option for you. However, if you value quick responsiveness, the Cloudy Shadow with its shorter travel distance could be the ideal choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two will depend on personal preference and individual typing or gaming style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Box CJ has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Box CJ for $5.35.
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 Gateron Box CJ offers a clacky and high-pitched typing experience, while the Aflion Cloudy Shadow produces a more neutral and low-pitched sound. The Gateron Box CJ delivers a sharp and snappy sound, creating a crisp and percussive typing sound. On the other hand, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow provides a more mellow and bass-heavy tone, offering a balanced and neutral sound signature. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, both the Gateron Box CJ and the Aflion Cloudy Shadow are described as providing a mild typing experience. This means that these switches offer a gentle and approachable feel without any extreme characteristics. Typists can expect a comfortable and smooth typing experience with both switches, making them suitable for a wide range of users.
Overall, the Gateron Box CJ and the Aflion Cloudy Shadow offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Box CJ delivers a clacky and high-pitched typing sound with a smooth push feel, the Cloudy Shadow provides a neutral and low-pitched sound with a bouncy typing feel due to extended springs. Choosing between these switches ultimately comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for. With both switches offering a mild typing experience, users can expect similar results in terms of comfort and usability.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch, consider the factors that matter most to you. If you prioritize a swift and smooth typing experience with higher-pitched clacks, the Box CJ with its medium-light bottom out force of 57 grams may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a balanced typing experience with a slightly heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams and a neutral sound signature, the Cloudy Shadow may be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing style. Choose the switch that aligns best with your preferences and typing needs.
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