Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch to the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch, it's clear that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Cloudy Shadow is praised for its balanced typing experience, neutral sound signature, and bouncy feel thanks to extended springs, making it an ideal choice for those looking for a smooth and consistent typing experience. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Silver stands out for its lightning-fast responsiveness, shorter travel distance, and vibrant RGB lighting, making it a top choice for gamers seeking an immersive and competitive gaming experience. 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
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
22mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiff plastic, creating a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal of the keyboard. With both switches opting for this material in their top housing, users can expect similar sound profiles and aesthetics when typing on either keyboard.
While the top housings of both the Cloudy Shadow and G Pro 3.0 Silver are made of polycarbonate, their bottom housings differ in material. The Cloudy Shadow features a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. Similarly, the G Pro 3.0 Silver also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, emphasizing a duller and rounder sound experience when typing. Despite the disparity in their bottom housing materials, both switches offer a unique typing experience that is influenced by the characteristics of their respective bottom housings.
When considering the impact of housing materials on the typing experience, it is important to note how the qualities of each material are distributed between the top and bottom housings of a switch. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing influences the sound produced when releasing a key. As such, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the Cloudy Shadow and G Pro 3.0 Silver contributes to a well-rounded typing experience that blends the unique characteristics of each material to create a satisfying and individualized feel for users.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch to the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch, it is evident that they have differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Cloudy Shadow has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it medium-heavy, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams. Additionally, the actuation force of the Cloudy Shadow is not specified, while the actuation force of the G Pro 3.0 Silver is 45 grams. The G Pro 3.0 Silver is therefore the lighter of the two switches. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the G Pro 3.0 Silver more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those who prefer a heavier push feel may opt for the Cloudy Shadow for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal 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 Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter travel distance range, with the Cloudy Shadow being slightly longer. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the slightly shorter travel distance of the G Pro 3.0 Silver, while those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes may lean towards the Cloudy Shadow. Ultimately, both switches offer a relatively similar travel distance that will provide a responsive 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 Silver has an MSRP of $3.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Silver for $3.27.
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 provides a low-pitched and neutral tone, offering a more mellow and balanced typing experience suitable for various purposes. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch is characterized by a bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound profile, adding depth and richness to each key press, especially enhanced by the frosted light diffuser for a more vibrant gaming setup. Both switches offer unique sound qualities that cater to different preferences, with the Cloudy Shadow leaning towards a more neutral and versatile tone, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver delivers a more immersive and intense auditory experience, particularly beneficial for gaming enthusiasts.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch offers a mild typing experience, providing a gentle and approachable sensation for most users. In contrast, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch is described as buttery and creamy, offering a smooth, fluid, and effortless keystroke experience that mimics gliding your fingers across the keys with ease. While the Cloudy Shadow focuses on a safe middle-ground feel, the G Pro 3.0 Silver excels in providing a luxurious and seamless typing sensation that enhances the overall user experience, particularly beneficial for prolonged gaming sessions where comfort and performance are crucial factors to consider.
Overall, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences and use cases. The Cloudy Shadow excels in providing a balanced and versatile typing experience with its neutral sound and mild feel, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver stands out with its immersive bassy sound and buttery, creamy feel that enhances gaming performance. Depending on individual preferences and requirements, both switches offer unique benefits that can elevate your typing or gaming experience, ensuring a satisfying and enjoyable usage with either option.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch or the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference and intended use. If you are looking for a balanced typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom-out force and neutral sound signature, the Cloudy Shadow may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize lightning-fast responsiveness for gaming and enjoy a lighter bottom-out force, the G Pro 3.0 Silver could be the better option. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different needs, so be sure to consider your typing or gaming preferences before making a decision. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on what qualities you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Mentioned in this article
