Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. HC Studio Crabapple
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the HC Studio Crabapple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow and HC Studio Crabapple are two popular linear mechanical keyboard switches with their own unique characteristics. The Cloudy Shadow is renowned for its bouncy feel and neutral sound signature, offering a balanced typing experience with a 63.5g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the Crabapple stands out for its effortless frictionless typing journey, crafted entirely from POM material and exuding a dry smoothness that is complemented by a subtle texture felt with each keystroke. While the Cloudy Shadow offers a mild and neutral typing experience, the Crabapple provides a subdued and textured feel. Both switches have their strengths, whether it be the innovative design of the Cloudy Shadow or the smoothness of the Crabapple. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Spring
Lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow and HC Studio Crabapple both use different materials for their top and bottom housing components, with the Cloudy Shadow featuring a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, while the Crabapple utilizes a POM material for both top and bottom housings. The polycarbonate top housing of the Cloudy Shadow is known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile, particularly well-suited for RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the POM material used for both top and bottom housings in the Crabapple produces a deeper and more muted sound profile, providing a unique auditory experience for users.
Both the Cloudy Shadow and the Crabapple emphasize the importance of housing materials in determining the sound profile of the switches. While the Cloudy Shadow's nylon bottom housing is praised for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile, the POM material used for the Crabapple's bottom housing offers a similar deep and muted sound. However, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Cloudy Shadow results in a sharper and higher-pitched sound compared to the Crabapple's POM top housing, which is described as producing a more pleasing and unique sound that leans towards the deeper side.
Overall, the choice of housing materials between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and HC Studio Crabapple plays a crucial role in defining their respective sound profiles. The stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the Cloudy Shadow offers a crisper and more resonant sound, while the softer nylon bottom housing enhances the overall typing experience with a fuller sound. On the other hand, the Crabapple's consistent use of POM for both top and bottom housings delivers a unique sound that is deep and pleasing to the ear. Both keyboards showcase how different housing materials can significantly impact the sound quality and overall user experience of the switches.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch, it is evident that the Cloudy Shadow has a higher bottom out force of 63.5 grams compared to the Crabapple's 45 grams, making the Cloudy Shadow the heavier option. The actuation force of the Cloudy Shadow is unknown, while the Crabapple has a lower actuation force of 37 grams. The Cloudy Shadow provides a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force, while the Crabapple offers a lighter touch, making it ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming. Both switches have their advantages depending on individual preferences, with the Cloudy Shadow being better suited for those who prefer a stronger push feel and the Crabapple for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch, it is evident that the Cloudy Shadow has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Crabapple has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular in the market today, with the Cloudy Shadow being on the shallower end and the Crabapple on the deeper end. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may lean towards the Cloudy Shadow, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Crabapple. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance and key feel.
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 HC Studio Crabapple has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Crabapple for $4.70.
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 Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch is known for its low-pitched and neutral sound signature, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for most typing environments. On the other hand, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch offers a more subdued sound with a dampened quality that is subtle and understated. Depending on personal preference and additional factors such as keyboard and keycaps, users will experience a different auditory experience with each switch.
When it comes to feel, the Cloudy Shadow linear switch is described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that falls in a safe, middle-ground zone suitable for most users. The extended springs provide a bouncy feel that adds to the overall typing experience. Meanwhile, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch is characterized by its frictionless and textured feel, providing an effortlessly smooth typing journey with minimal resistance or friction. The dry smoothness and subtle texture felt with each downstroke contribute to a unique typing experience that some users may prefer.
Overall, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Cloudy Shadow provides a balanced and mild typing experience with a neutral sound signature, the Crabapple offers a frictionless feel with a subdued sound profile. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience each individual is looking for. Whether opting for the bouncy and neutral Cloudy Shadow or the smooth and textured Crabapple, users can expect quality and innovation from both switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch, consider the differences in bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a neutral sound signature with a bouncy feel, the Cloudy Shadow may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a subdued sound signature, and an effortlessly frictionless typing experience with a subtle texture, the Crabapple switch might be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style.
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