Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. Gateron Jupiter Red
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Gateron Jupiter Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Gateron Jupiter Red, both linear switches. The Cloudy Shadow is praised for its neutral sound signature and bouncy feel, thanks to extended springs that provide a balanced typing experience with a 63.5g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the Jupiter Red offers a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke with a single-stage spring, maintaining a medium-heavy actuation for a consistent typing experience. While the Cloudy Shadow is characterized as low-pitched, mild, and neutral, the Jupiter Red is described as polished, creamy, silky, mild, and neutral. Each switch has its own unique features and benefits, making it important to delve deeper into their specifics to determine the best fit for your 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
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
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Gateron Jupiter Red, we find that both switches feature polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. This results in a more clear and resonant sound when the keys are pressed. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing enhances the overall aesthetic of the switch, particularly when paired with RGB lighting. As a result, both the Cloudy Shadow and the Jupiter Red offer a similar sound profile and visual appeal with their polycarbonate top housing.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Cloudy Shadow utilizes nylon while the Jupiter Red also features nylon in its bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile because of its softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when keys are pressed on switches with nylon bottom housing. Therefore, both the Cloudy Shadow and the Jupiter Red offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel with their nylon bottom housing.
It is important to note that the qualities of each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing material has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when keys are pressed, while the top housing material influences the sound when keys are released. This means that the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Gateron Jupiter Red may offer slightly different typing experiences based on the combination of their top and bottom housing materials.
Weight
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch have differing actuation and bottom out forces. The Cloudy Shadow has an actuation force of None grams, while the Jupiter Red has an actuation force of 45 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Cloudy Shadow requires 63.5 grams, which is medium-heavy, whereas the Jupiter Red only needs 60 grams, making it a medium force switch. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Jupiter Red more comfortable for extended typing or gaming sessions, while individuals looking for a more substantial typing experience may gravitate towards the Cloudy Shadow. Both switches offer unique experiences due to their variance in actuation and bottom out forces, providing users with options to match their preferences.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, we find that the Cloudy Shadow has a travel distance of 3.5mm, while the Jupiter Red has a travel distance of 4mm. The Cloudy Shadow offers a slightly shorter travel distance, making it ideal for those seeking a quicker response time, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Jupiter Red provides a slightly longer travel distance, offering a more substantial key press experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference - whether you prioritize speed and responsiveness or a more tactile typing experience. Both switches offer reliable performance, so you can expect similar results regardless of which one you choose.
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 Red 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, both the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Gateron Jupiter Red switches offer a neutral sound profile. The Cloudy Shadow is noted for its low-pitched sound, which gives it a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, while the Jupiter Red provides a moderate sound profile that is suitable for various typing environments. The difference in sound between the two switches may be subtle and could be further influenced by the keyboard build and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow switch is described as providing a mild typing experience, offering a gentle feel that falls within a safe middle-ground zone. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Red switch is noted for its polished and creamy feel, which results in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches aim to deliver a comfortable typing experience but may appeal to different preferences based on the level of smoothness desired.
Overall, while the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and Gateron Jupiter Red linear switches may have some differences in sound and feel, they both offer quality and innovation in their respective designs. Whether you choose the Cloudy Shadow for its neutral sound and mild feel, or the Jupiter Red for its polished and creamy typing experience, you can expect a balanced and consistent typing experience from either switch. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific typing feel you are looking for in your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In comparing the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch to the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prioritize a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a bouncy feel with a neutral sound signature, then the Cloudy Shadow may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and value a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke with high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, then the Jupiter Red could be more aligned with your preferences. Consider how you type, your desired typing experience, and whether you prioritize certain features such as sound and feel when choosing between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer quality and innovation in their own right, so trust your instincts and choose the switch that aligns best with your typing preferences.
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