Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. Dareu Firefly
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Dareu Firefly switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Dareu Firefly tactile switch. The Cloudy Shadow is gaining rapid traction in the industry for its neutral sound signature and bouncy feel, thanks to extended springs that provide a balanced typing experience with a 63.5g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the Firefly switch from Dareu offers a new take on clicky switches, with a very light actuation and just a hint of clickiness, providing an easy-to-press and chirpy typing experience. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, whether you prefer a neutral and bouncy feel like the Cloudy Shadow or a light and chirpy typing experience like the Firefly. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and Dareu Firefly utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which enhances resonance. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. In contrast, the Cloudy Shadow and Firefly feature different bottom housing materials - nylon. Nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the stiffer polycarbonate, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
Despite sharing the same top housing material of polycarbonate, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and Dareu Firefly differ in their bottom housing material, with both opting for nylon. While both switches utilizing nylon bottom housing result in a deeper and fuller sound profile, the individual design choices made for each may lead to slight variations in sound and feel. The Cloudy Shadow's combination of polycarbonate and nylon housings may create a unique blend of sharpness and resonance, while the Firefly's pairing may produce a different balance of sound qualities.
In terms of construction, the Cloudy Shadow and Firefly showcase how the choice of housing materials can impact the overall sound profile of a switch. The Cloudy Shadow's stiffer polycarbonate top housing contributes to a more resonant sound when releasing a key, while the Firefly's softer nylon bottom housing enhances the bottom-out sound and feel. Despite these differences, both switches highlight the importance of careful material selection in creating a satisfying typing experience.
Weight
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Dareu Firefly tactile switch differ in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Cloudy Shadow has an actuation force of None grams, while the Firefly has an actuation force of 40 grams. The Cloudy Shadow has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which is medium-heavy, while the bottom out force of the Firefly is unknown. In terms of weight, the Firefly is lighter with its lower actuation force, making it suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Cloudy Shadow offers a heavier push feel, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Dareu Firefly tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Firefly has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Cloudy Shadow. The difference may seem small, but it can impact the typing or gaming experience for some users. Those who prefer a shorter travel distance may opt for the Cloudy Shadow for faster response times, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may choose the Firefly. Both switches offer a different tactile feel due to their travel distance, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style.
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 Dareu Firefly has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Firefly for $3.76.
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 offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a mellow and balanced typing experience suitable for various environments. On the other hand, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch is described as chirpy, adding a unique acoustic signature to your typing. While the Cloudy Shadow focuses on a bass-heavy sound, the Firefly brings a hint of whimsical squeakiness to the table. Both switches offer distinct sound qualities that will cater to different preferences, ensuring a personalized auditory experience for users.
Moving on to feel, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch provides a mild typing experience, offering a gentle and approachable feel for users. With its extended springs and 63.5g bottom-out force, typing on the Cloudy Shadow switch feels bouncy and balanced. On the other hand, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch is easy-to-press, requiring minimal force to activate and providing a responsive and low-impact typing feel. The Firefly switch prioritizes an effortless and comfortable typing experience, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Both switches offer unique tactile sensations that cater to different typing preferences, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience for users.
In conclusion, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Dareu Firefly tactile switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities to users. While the Cloudy Shadow focuses on a neutral and bouncy typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, the Firefly introduces a chirpy and easy-to-press typing feel with a hint of clickiness. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between these two switches to enhance their typing experience. Overall, whether opting for the Cloudy Shadow or the Firefly, users can expect a satisfying and tailored mechanical keyboard experience with similar results in terms of quality and innovation from both manufacturers.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a balanced typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a bouncy feel, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a very light actuation with just a hint of clickiness and a quiet typing experience, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your typing style, sound preferences, and desired typing experience. Both switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that best fits your needs and enjoy your typing experience.
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