Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. Durock Ice King Tactile
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Durock Ice King Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile switch stand out for their unique characteristics. The Cloudy Shadow linear switch by Aflion offers a balanced typing experience with a neutral sound signature and bouncy feel thanks to extended springs, making it ideal for those seeking a smooth and consistent keystroke. On the other hand, the Ice King Tactile switch by Durock excels in providing a creamy smoothness with a pronounced tactile bump, offering a satisfying tactile typing experience that combines the best of both worlds with finesse. 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
58g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
68g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
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 progressive long spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Durock Ice King Tactile, one notable difference is in the top housing material. The Cloudy Shadow features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its relatively stiffer plastic composition. On the other hand, the Ice King Tactile utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. While both materials offer unique sound profiles, the polycarbonate top housing of the Cloudy Shadow may provide a crisper and more resonant sound, whereas the nylon top housing of the Ice King Tactile could deliver a more rounded and absorbent sound.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Cloudy Shadow and the Ice King Tactile feature nylon bottom housings. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches. This similarity in bottom housing material suggests that the typing experience on these switches may share common characteristics in terms of sound and feel. The nylon bottom housing's ability to create a duller and rounder sound profile is likely to be consistent across both the Cloudy Shadow and the Ice King Tactile switches, providing a familiar typing experience for users of either switch.
Overall, while the Cloudy Shadow and the Ice King Tactile may differ in their top housing materials, the shared nylon bottom housing material suggests that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel. The Cloudy Shadow's polycarbonate top housing may offer a sharper and crisper sound profile, contrasting with the Ice King Tactile's nylon top housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound. However, the nylon bottom housing of both switches is likely to contribute to a consistent typing experience characterized by a duller and rounder sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference for the specific sound profile desired during typing.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, it is evident that the Cloudy Shadow has a lighter actuation force with None grams compared to the Ice King Tactile's 58 grams. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Cloudy Shadow at 63.5 grams and the Ice King Tactile at 68 grams, both falling within the medium-heavy range. The Cloudy Shadow offers a lighter initial keypress, which may be preferred by users who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Ice King Tactile provides a slightly heavier actuation force, catering to those who enjoy a more pronounced push feel for a substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for actuation force and typing feel.
Travel distance
Both the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Durock Ice King tactile switch have the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of key travel. Therefore, the travel distance of both switches is equal, resulting in similar typing experiences for users who prefer a shorter key travel distance.
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 Durock Ice King Tactile has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ice King Tactile for $4.20.
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 bass-heavy and mellow tone suitable for various environments. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch produces a subdued sound when pressed, offering a more dampened and subtle sound signature. Both switches excel in their own way, with the Cloudy Shadow providing a more balanced sound and the Ice King Tactile offering a unique and satisfying tactile experience.
When it comes to feel, the Cloudy Shadow linear switch is described as offering a mild typing experience, providing a gentle and approachable feel suitable for most users. In contrast, the Ice King Tactile tactile switch is described as silky, frictionless, stepped, and polished, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance and a refined finish. While the Cloudy Shadow offers a safe middle-ground feel, the Ice King Tactile excels in providing a luxurious typing sensation with its combination of features.
Overall, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch offer distinct qualities in both sound and feel. While the Cloudy Shadow provides a balanced typing experience with a neutral sound signature and mild feel, the Ice King Tactile elevates tactile typing to a new level with its creamy smoothness, pronounced tactile bump, and luxurious sensation. Depending on personal preference and typing style, users can choose between the two switches to achieve their desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch, consider the following guidelines: You may want to choose the Cloudy Shadow if you prefer a switch with a slightly lighter bottom-out force of 63.5 grams, a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, and a mild typing feel that falls in the middle ground of tactile feedback. On the other hand, if you seek a slightly heavier bottom-out force of 68 grams, a subdued sound profile that offers a more dampened sound, and a silky, frictionless, stepped, and polished typing feel that provides an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience with a unique tactile feedback, then the Ice King Tactile would be the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should align with your preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and bottom-out force to ensure an optimal typing experience tailored to your needs and preferences. Choose wisely and enjoy your new mechanical keyboard switch!
Mentioned in this article
