Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. Gateron Ink Red
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Gateron Ink Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch to the Gateron Ink Red linear switch, we see two distinct options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Cloudy Shadow offers a balanced typing experience with a 63.5g bottom-out force, a neutral sound signature, and a bouncy feel due to extended springs. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Red provides a smooth typing experience with a lower actuation force, crispy and clacky sound profile, and effortless feel. While the Cloudy Shadow is ideal for those seeking a balanced and bouncy typing experience, the Ink Red is perfect for individuals with a lighter typing style looking for a smooth and satisfying feel. 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
60g
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
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Gateron Ink Red both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Cloudy Shadow's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound compared to the Ink Red's proprietary INK blend top housing, which produces a relatively high-pitched and clacky sound. Both materials allow for a satisfying typing experience, but the polycarbonate in the Cloudy Shadow offers a clearer and resonant sound, while the INK blend in the Ink Red provides a more pointed and less sharp sound.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Cloudy Shadow utilizes nylon, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Ink Red's proprietary INK blend bottom housing contributes to a higher-pitched and clacky sound. Despite their differences, both materials offer a satisfying typing experience with unique sound characteristics. The softer nylon in the Cloudy Shadow creates a duller and rounder sound, while the INK blend in the Ink Red provides a thinner and more high-pitched sound.
Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Gateron Ink Red will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile. If you prefer a sharper and crisper sound, the Cloudy Shadow with its polycarbonate top housing may be the better option. On the other hand, if you enjoy a thinner and clacky sound, the Ink Red with its proprietary INK blend top and bottom housing may be more suitable. Despite their differences, both switches offer a unique typing experience with distinct sound profiles that can enhance your overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Gateron Ink Red linear switch, it is evident that they offer different experiences. The Aflion Cloudy Shadow has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it medium-heavy, while the actuation force is not specified. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Red has a lower actuation force of 45 grams and a slightly lighter bottom out force of 60 grams, which is considered medium. The lighter actuation force of the Ink Red switch may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, whereas the Cloudy Shadow's heavier bottom out force could provide a more substantial typing experience for users who prefer a bit more resistance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5mm, while the Gateron Ink Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4mm. In this case, the Ink Red has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Cloudy Shadow. For those who prefer a shorter travel distance for faster response times, the Cloudy Shadow would be the better option. On the other hand, if you enjoy a deeper press and a more satisfying feel when typing, the Ink Red may be preferred. Both switches offer different travel distances catering to different preferences, so choosing between the two ultimately depends on personal preference for 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 Gateron Ink Red has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Red for $7.35.
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 linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a mellow and balanced typing experience that is suitable for various settings. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch also has a neutral sound profile but is described as chirpy, adding a unique touch to the typing sound with a little squeak. Both switches offer different sound characteristics, so the choice between them would depend on individual preferences and the desired typing atmosphere.
Moving on to the feel, the Cloudy Shadow switch is known for providing a mild typing experience, offering a gentle feel that falls within a safe middle-ground zone for most users. In comparison, the Gateron Ink Red switch is described as silky, delivering an exceptionally smooth typing experience that minimizes resistance and enhances overall typing comfort. Additionally, the Ink Red switch is also labeled as mild and polished, emphasizing its smooth and refined finish that contributes to a sleek typing feel. Depending on whether one prefers a milder typing experience or prioritizes smoothness and refinement, the choice between the two switches may vary.
In conclusion, both the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Gateron Ink Red linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Cloudy Shadow provides a neutral and low-pitched sound with a mild typing feel, while the Ink Red offers a neutral sound with a chirpy characteristic and a silky smooth typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing style. However, it is important to note that both switches are linear switches and share similarities in their linear feel, so users can expect a similar linear typing experience regardless of their choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch or the Gateron Ink Red linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom-out force and a bouncy feel, the Cloudy Shadow with its 63.5g bottom-out force may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force and a smooth typing experience, the Gateron Ink Red with its 60g bottom-out force may suit your needs better. Both switches offer quality and innovation in their own right, so it's important to consider what factors are most important to you when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and Gateron Ink Red will depend on what typing experience you are looking for.
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