Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow both offer unique features that may appeal to different types of users. The cloudy shadow, a linear switch, is praised for its neutral sound signature and bouncy feel due to extended springs, providing a balanced typing experience with a 63.5g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow, also a linear switch, stands out for its budget-friendly nature and higher pitched clacky sound profile, offering a fairly bouncy typing feel. The cloudy shadow is categorized as low-pitched, mild, neutral, while the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is categorized as polished, high-pitched, creamy, resonant. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics that cater to different preferences. Let's dive in a bit deeper beyond the 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
67g
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
15.4mm long spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow, both switches use polycarbonate for the top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which creates a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for RGB lighting. However, while both switches share the same material for the top housing, the Cloudy Shadow utilizes nylon for the bottom housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile with a rounder sound due to nylon's softer nature. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow also uses nylon for the bottom housing, ensuring a similar typing experience in terms of sound depth and texture.
Despite the similarities in the top housing material between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow, the difference lies in the choice of nylon for the bottom housing. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles due to this variation, with the Cloudy Shadow producing a duller and rounder sound with nylon, while the G Pro Yellow 3.0 maintains similar sound characteristics. The impact of the bottom housing is felt when typing on the switch, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing plays a significant role in the sound when releasing a key, highlighting the importance of both housing materials in shaping the overall typing experience.
In conclusion, while the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow share polycarbonate as the material for the top housing, they differ in the choice of nylon for the bottom housing, resulting in unique sound profiles for each switch. The Cloudy Shadow offers a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon bottom housing, creating a distinct typing experience compared to the G Pro 3.0 Yellow. However, both switches showcase the benefits of polycarbonate in the top housing, delivering a sharper and crisper sound profile suitable for RGB lighting enthusiasts. Ultimately, the combination of different housing materials in each switch contributes to their individual sound characteristics and overall performance.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch, we can see that the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is the lighter of the two with an actuation force of 50 grams compared to the unspecified force of the Cloudy Shadow. Both switches have a medium-heavy bottom out force, with the Cloudy Shadow requiring 63.5 grams and the G Pro 3.0 Yellow needing 67 grams. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow may be more suitable, allowing for longer typing or gaming sessions without causing strain. Meanwhile, the Cloudy Shadow may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial push feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference 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 Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the G Pro 3.0 Yellow has a longer travel distance compared to the Cloudy Shadow. The difference may not be significant, but it can impact the typing experience. If you prefer a shallower key press, the Cloudy Shadow with its shorter travel distance may be more suitable for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a bit more depth in your key presses, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow could be the better option. Both switches offer smooth linear actuation, so regardless of your choice, you can expect similar results in terms of typing feel and performance.
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 Yellow has an MSRP of $3.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Yellow for $2.78.
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, giving a bass-heavy and mellow tone suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch produces a high-pitched and resonant sound, creating a sharp and crisp auditory experience with a distinct clacky noise. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the mellow sound of the Cloudy Shadow or the sharp sound of the G Pro 3.0 Yellow.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch provides a mild typing experience with a bouncy feel due to its extended springs, offering a gentle and approachable sensation for most users. In contrast, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch boasts a polished and creamy feel, with smooth key travel and reduced friction for a sleek and buttery typing experience. Whether users prefer a mild and bouncy feel or a polished and creamy sensation, both switches offer unique tactile qualities to enhance typing comfort.
Overall, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch present different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Cloudy Shadow provides a neutral and mild experience with a bouncy feel, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow offers a higher-pitched sound profile with a polished and creamy typing feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between these two switches to customize their typing experience according to their liking. Ultimately, both switches provide quality and innovation in their design, catering to a diverse range of user preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch, it all comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you desire. If you prefer a slightly lighter bottom-out force and a more neutral sound profile with a bouncy feel, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a higher pitched clacky sound profile and a smoother, polished typing experience, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow could be the perfect fit. Consider your typing style, sound preference, and desired tactile feel when making your decision. Both switches offer their own unique characteristics, so choose based on what aligns best with your preferences.
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