Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry mechanical keyboard switches, both offer a linear typing experience but cater to different preferences. The Cloudy Shadow from Aflion is praised for its neutral sound signature and bouncy feel, thanks to extended springs, providing a balanced typing experience with a 63.5g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the EverFree (EF) Curry from Gateron is known for its smooth keystroke and excellent value in the linear switch market, offering a budget-friendly option without compromising on quality. While the Cloudy Shadow appeals to those looking for a more neutral and mild typing experience, the EverFree Curry is ideal for users seeking a snappy, polished, and mild keystroke. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
20mm double-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. As a result, both switches offer similar sound profiles and aesthetic benefits with their polycarbonate top housing.
However, the key point of differentiation between these switches lies in their bottom housing material. The Cloudy Shadow utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. In contrast, the EverFree (EF) Curry also features a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a similar sound profile that is duller and rounder. The bottom housing material has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, adding a unique element to the typing experience.
Overall, while both the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry share a polycarbonate top housing for similar sound profiles and aesthetic qualities, their differentiation in bottom housing material offers a nuanced typing experience. The Cloudy Shadow's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, while the EverFree (EF) Curry's nylon bottom housing creates a duller and rounder sound. This variation showcases how different housing materials can impact the overall sound and feel of a mechanical switch, catering to individual preferences in typing experiences.
Weight
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch differ in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Cloudy Shadow has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it slightly heavier than the EverFree (EF) Curry, which bottoms out at 60 grams. However, the actuation force of the EverFree (EF) Curry is 50 grams, while the actuation force of the Cloudy Shadow is unknown. Despite the differences in force requirements, both switches fall within the medium range. Some users may prefer the Cloudy Shadow for its heavier bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the EverFree (EF) Curry may be favored by those who prefer a lighter actuation force for extended typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch, it is clear that the Cloudy Shadow has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the EverFree Curry's 4 mm. The Cloudy Shadow's 3.5 mm travel distance provides a quicker response time, which is favored by gamers looking for speed. On the other hand, the EverFree Curry's longer 4 mm travel distance offers a more substantial key press depth, which may be preferred by individuals who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a shorter, quicker response or a longer, more satisfying key press.
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 Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry has an MSRP of $2.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the EverFree (EF) Curry for $1.99.
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 considering the sound of the switches, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral tone, which is best suited for those looking for a mellow sound profile that is not too loud or distracting. On the other hand, information on the sound profile of the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch is not provided, so it is unclear how it compares in terms of sound.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow is described as providing a mild typing experience, which appeals to users seeking a gentle and approachable feel while typing. The extended springs in these switches contribute to a bouncy sensation that some users may find enjoyable. In contrast, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry switch is characterized as snappy, polished, and also mild, offering a smooth and refined typing experience that is responsive and lively.
Overall, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch each offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Cloudy Shadow provides a balanced and bouncy typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, the EverFree Curry offers a smooth and responsive typing experience with a polished finish. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between the two switches to achieve their desired typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer quality options within the linear switch market, providing users with reliable and cost-effective solutions from reputable manufacturers in the industry.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Curry linear switch, consider your preferences in terms of typing experience. If you value a balanced typing feel with a slightly heavier bottom-out force and a neutral sound profile, the Cloudy Shadow may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and snappier typing experience with a lower bottom-out force and a budget-friendly price point, the EverFree (EF) Curry switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and preferences in order to optimize your overall keyboarding experience.
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