Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. Gateron Ink Box Pink
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Gateron Ink Box Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introduction:
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Gateron Ink Box Pink both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in typing experiences. The Cloudy Shadow, a linear switch from Aflion, stands out for its neutral sound signature and bouncy feel, thanks to the extended springs, providing a balanced typing experience with a 63.5g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Pink, also a linear switch, is praised for its smoothness and lighter typing feel, along with a higher-pitched clack. While both switches have their own strengths, such as the Cloudy Shadow's mild and neutral characteristics and the Ink Box Pink's silky and polished feel, the decision ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
60g
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 housing materials of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Gateron Ink Box Pink both offer unique characteristics that contribute to the sound profile of the switches. The Cloudy Shadow's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound, while the Ink Box Pink's proprietary INK blend top housing provides a pointed and high-pitched sound that is described as clacky. Both materials allow for a clear and resonant sound profile, with the Cloudy Shadow's polycarbonate being especially useful for RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the Nylon bottom housing of the Cloudy Shadow elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Box Pink offers a similar high-pitched sound profile.
However, the differences in materials for the top and bottom housings of the switches result in unique qualities for each component. The bottom housing material has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed, with nylon providing a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound produced by the INK blend. On the other hand, the top housing material influences the sound when the key is released, with polycarbonate creating a clearer sound compared to the clacky sound produced by the INK blend. Despite these differences, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with their distinct sound profiles.
Overall, while the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Gateron Ink Box Pink have different housing materials for their top and bottom components, they both excel in producing unique and desirable sound profiles. The Cloudy Shadow's combination of polycarbonate and nylon offers a mix of sharpness and depth in sound, while the Ink Box Pink's proprietary INK blend provides a satisfying clacky and high-pitched sound profile. Whether you prefer a crisper sound or a deeper tone, both switches deliver a tactile typing experience that is sure to please mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch, it is evident that the Ink Box Pink is the lighter option. The Cloudy Shadow has an actuation force of None grams, while the Ink Box Pink requires 50 grams of force to actuate. In terms of bottom out force, the Cloudy Shadow is heavier at 63.5 grams compared to the 60 grams needed for the Ink Box Pink. Both switches provide a smooth linear typing experience, but the choice between them ultimately depends on personal preference. Some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Ink Box Pink for extended typing sessions, while others may opt for the heavier bottom out force of the Cloudy Shadow for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, selecting the right switch comes down to individual typing style and preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch both offer a relatively short travel distance compared to more traditional switches. The Cloudy Shadow has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Ink Box Pink has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches provide a responsive typing experience, favored by gamers for faster response times. However, the slightly longer travel distance of the Ink Box Pink may offer a bit more depth and tactile feedback compared to the Cloudy Shadow. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a shorter and more abrupt feel or a slightly longer and more substantial 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 Ink Box Pink 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 Pink 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
When it comes to sound, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, giving a more bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for various environments and users. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Pink switch produces a clacky, high-pitched sound that is sharp and crisp, appealing to those who prefer a more bright and percussive sound. Depending on personal preference and the setup of the keyboard, users can choose the sound profile that best suits their typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow switch provides a mild typing experience with a bouncy feel due to the extended springs, offering a gentle and approachable feel that falls in a safe, middle-ground zone. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Box Pink switch offers a silky and polished feel, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Users looking for a more refined and frictionless typing feel may prefer the smoothness of the Ink Box Pink switch.
Overall, both the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Gateron Ink Box Pink switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences. While the Cloudy Shadow provides a balanced typing experience with a neutral sound signature and bouncy feel, the Ink Box Pink offers a lighter typing feel with a higher-pitched and clacky sound. Depending on individual preferences and typing styles, users can choose between the two options to achieve a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when it comes to choosing between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch, it ultimately boils down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a slightly heavier typing experience with a more neutral sound profile, the Cloudy Shadow with its 63.5g bottom-out force may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you're looking for a smoother and lighter typing feel with a higher-pitched clack sound, the Gateron Ink Box Pink with its 60g bottom-out force might be more up your alley. Consider how you like your switches to feel and sound, as well as your preferred actuation force, when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer quality and innovative features that can enhance your typing experience.
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