Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. Gateron Ink Box Black
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Gateron Ink Box Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Cloudy Shadow switch is gaining rapid traction in the industry for its neutral sound signature and bouncy feel, thanks to its extended springs, providing a balanced typing experience with a 63.5g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black switch is known for its incredibly smooth and creamy feel, with a sound signature reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken. While the Cloudy Shadow switch is categorized as low-pitched, mild, and neutral, the Ink Box Black switch falls under clacky, high-pitched, silky, and polished categories. Each switch has its strengths and appeal, catering to different typing styles and preferences. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Gateron Ink Box Black both feature unique housing materials that significantly impact the sound profile of the switches. The Cloudy Shadow's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound, while the Ink Box Black's proprietary INK blend top housing offers a pointed and high-pitched sound that is described as clacky. Despite this difference, both materials contribute to a satisfying sound experience for typists and gamers alike, with the polycarbonate producing a clear and resonant sound while the INK blend offers a thinner and higher-pitched sound.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Cloudy Shadow utilizes nylon, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black's proprietary INK blend bottom housing also contributes to a pointed and high-pitched sound profile, complementing the top housing material to create a unique overall sound experience. While the Cloudy Shadow's nylon bottom housing offers a duller and rounder sound, the INK blend bottom housing provides a more clacky and satisfying sound that adds to the overall typing experience.
Despite having different housing materials for the top and bottom sections, both the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Gateron Ink Box Black offer a blend of qualities that contribute to a distinctive sound profile. The impact of the bottom housing material is felt more during the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key. Both switches offer a unique sound experience tailored to the preferences of typists and gamers, showcasing the importance of housing materials in the overall performance and feel of mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch to the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch, it is evident that the Cloudy Shadow has a lighter actuation force as it requires None grams to trigger a keystroke, while the Ink Box Black has an actuation force of 60 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Cloudy Shadow has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, whereas the Ink Box Black has a bottom out force of 70 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy category in terms of bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience to type for extended periods, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow may be the better choice. In contrast, those who enjoy a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Gateron Ink Box Black. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. While the difference between the two distances may seem minimal, it can have an impact on typing or gaming experience. Gamers who prioritize quick response times may prefer the Cloudy Shadow with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the Ink Box Black with its slightly longer travel distance. Both switches offer a balance between traditional and shallow travel distances, providing users with options based on their preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the type of typing or gaming experience one is looking for.
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 Ink Box Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Box Black for $7.65.
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 profile, providing a mellow and balanced typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch produces a clacky and high-pitched sound, giving a sharp and crisp feedback when pressed. Depending on personal preference, the Cloudy Shadow would suit those looking for a more subdued and versatile sound, while the Ink Box Black would appeal to individuals who enjoy a more vibrant and percussive sound.
Moving on to feel, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch offers a mild typing experience, striking a balance between gentle keystrokes and approachable qualities that cater to a wider range of users. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch provides a silky and polished feel, delivering an exceptionally smooth typing experience with reduced friction and enhanced key travel. Those who prioritize smoothness and refined keypresses may lean towards the Ink Box Black, while the Cloudy Shadow offers a comfortable and moderate typing experience.
In conclusion, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Cloudy Shadow provides a neutral and bouncy sound with a mild typing feel, the Ink Box Black delivers a clacky and high-pitched sound with a silky and polished typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance the typing experience depending on individual preferences and usage scenarios.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch, you should consider a few key factors. If you prefer a bouncy feel with a medium-heavy bottom-out force of 63.5 grams, as well as a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, the Cloudy Shadow may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for an incredibly smooth and creamy typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom-out force of 70 grams, along with a clacky high-pitched sound profile, the Ink Box Black could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the specific qualities that align with your typing style and sound preferences.
Mentioned in this article
