Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch offer unique features and benefits for users to consider. The Cloudy Shadow from Aflion is recognized for its neutral sound signature and bouncy feel, thanks to the extended springs that provide a balanced typing experience with a 63.5g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Red from Gateron's G Pro line-up is praised for its smooth typing experience and medium-light actuation force, striking a balance between responsiveness and ease of use. While the Cloudy Shadow is described as low-pitched and mild, the G Pro 3.0 Red is characterized as creamy, mild, neutral, polished, and silky. Each switch has its own unique qualities that cater to different preferences and needs. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Standard
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
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially useful for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. This material is known for its aesthetic appeal and ability to enhance lighting effects.
On the other hand, the Cloudy Shadow features a nylon bottom housing, while the G Pro 3.0 Red also utilizes a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Both switches benefit from the qualities of nylon in their bottom housings, providing a unique typing experience with a focus on sound quality.
While the top and bottom housings of the Cloudy Shadow and G Pro 3.0 Red may differ, the qualities of each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The impact of the bottom housing is more noticeable during a key press, affecting the bottom out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Overall, both switches offer a combination of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials to create a distinct typing experience with unique sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch, one notable difference is their actuation and bottom out forces. The Cloudy Shadow has an actuation force of None grams, making it lighter in this regard compared to the G Pro 3.0 Red with an actuation force of 45 grams. On the other hand, the Cloudy Shadow has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it heavier in this aspect compared to the G Pro 3.0 Red with a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that while the G Pro 3.0 Red may require less force to trigger a keystroke, the Cloudy Shadow provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on whether one prefers a lighter actuation force for longer typing periods or a heavier bottom out force for a more solid typing feel.
Travel distance
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the G Pro 3.0 Red the longer option compared to the Cloudy Shadow. In terms of choosing between the two based on travel distance, the Cloudy Shadow offers a slightly shorter travel distance which may cater to those looking for a quicker response time, such as gamers. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Red provides a bit more depth in its keypress, which may be preferred by users who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and how the travel distance affects your typing experience.
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 G Pro 3.0 Red has an MSRP of $2.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Red for $2.77.
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 it comes to sound, both the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switches are described as having a neutral profile, meaning they offer a moderate sound that is suitable for various typing environments. While the Cloudy Shadow leans towards a low-pitched sound, the G Pro 3.0 Red has a medium-high pitch that provides a satisfying auditory experience. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycap material used.
In terms of feel, the Cloudy Shadow switch is described as providing a mild typing experience, offering a safe middle-ground zone that is approachable to most users. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Red switch is known for its creamy and polished feel, offering a smooth and buttery typing sensation with reduced friction and smooth key travel. This polished and silky feel enhances the overall typing experience by minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys.
Overall, both the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. While the Cloudy Shadow excels in a neutral sound signature and bouncy feel with extended springs, the G Pro 3.0 Red stands out with its creamy and polished typing experience that is both smooth and satisfying. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches provide a balanced typing experience that can elevate your performance without compromising on quality.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch, you should consider a few key factors. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom-out force for a more tactile typing experience, along with a neutral sound profile and bouncy feel, then the Cloudy Shadow would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom-out force for a smoother typing experience, along with a budget-friendly option that offers vibrant RGB lighting effects and a satisfying auditory experience, then the G Pro 3.0 Red would be the perfect fit for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and actuation force.
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