Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. Gateron Jupiter Banana
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Gateron Jupiter Banana switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch stand out as popular options in the market. The Cloudy Shadow is praised for its balanced typing experience, neutral sound signature, and bouncy feel thanks to extended springs, making it a solid choice for those seeking a smooth and consistent keystroke. On the other hand, the Jupiter Banana boasts high-precision molds, softer backlight effects, and two-stage springs for a strong return and consistent feel, appealing to users looking for a tactile feedback with each key press. 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
59g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
69g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Spring steel
Housing materials
Both the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Gateron Jupiter Banana feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when typing. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which creates a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, while both switches have the same top housing material, the design and aesthetics of each switch are unique, providing different visual experiences for users.
In contrast, the Cloudy Shadow and the Jupiter Banana have nylon bottom housings, which produce a deeper and fuller sound when typing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. Despite having the same bottom housing material, the feel and sound of typing on each switch may differ due to variations in design and construction. Users may notice a difference in the impact of the bottom-out sound and feel between the two switches.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches plays a significant role in the overall typing experience. While both the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Gateron Jupiter Banana offer similar qualities in terms of sound profiles based on their housing materials, differences in design and construction may lead to varying tactile experiences for users. Whether it's the sharp and crisp sound of polycarbonate or the deep and full sound of nylon, both switches provide unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences.
Weight
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch have notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Cloudy Shadow has no specified actuation force, making it unclear how much force is needed to trigger a keypress, while it requires 63.5 grams to bottom out, giving it a medium-heavy feel. In contrast, the Jupiter Banana has an actuation force of 59 grams, slightly lighter than the Cloudy Shadow, and a bottom out force of 69 grams, also falling into the medium-heavy category. Those who prefer a light typing experience may lean towards the Jupiter Banana, while those seeking a more robust key press might find the Cloudy Shadow more to their liking. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences 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 Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Although the difference in travel distance is minimal, the Cloudy Shadow has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Jupiter Banana. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. However, for those who prefer a more substantial depth to their keystrokes, the Cloudy Shadow may provide a slightly more satisfying feel due to its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and 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 Jupiter Banana comes in at $2.80 per 10 switches.
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 more mellow and balanced typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch produces a high-pitched and resonant sound, giving a sharper and cleaner auditory experience. Depending on individual preference, users can choose between the bass-heavy tones of the Cloudy Shadow or the crisp sound of the Jupiter Banana.
Moving on to feel, the Cloudy Shadow linear switch is described as providing a mild typing experience, offering a gentle feel that falls in a safe middle-ground zone. In contrast, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch is characterized by a polished and creamy feel, boasting a smooth and buttery typing sensation that is enhanced by factory lubrication. Users who prefer a more refined and smooth key travel may lean towards the Jupiter Banana for a luxurious typing experience.
Overall, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. While the Cloudy Shadow offers a neutral and mild typing experience with a bouncy feel, the Jupiter Banana provides a high-precision and polished typing experience with a strong return and creamy feel. Depending on whether users prioritize sound profile or typing feel, they can choose between the Cloudy Shadow for a balanced experience or the Jupiter Banana for a luxurious and refined typing sensation.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch, consider your preference for bottom-out force. If you prefer a slightly lighter bottom-out force, the Cloudy Shadow with 63.5 grams may be more suitable for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom-out force, the Jupiter Banana with 69 grams may be a better fit. Additionally, consider the sound profile you prefer – if you enjoy a low-pitched and neutral sound, the Cloudy Shadow may be your choice. However, if you prefer a high-pitched and resonant sound, the Jupiter Banana might be more appealing. As for feel, if you prefer a mild typing experience, the Cloudy Shadow is a good option, but if you prefer a polished and creamy feel, the Jupiter Banana might be the one for you. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will come down to your personal typing preferences and the experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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