Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. Keygeek Keygeek Raw
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two options that stand out are the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw, both linear switches. The Cloudy Shadow from Aflion is gaining rapid traction in the industry 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 Keygeek Raw switches distinguish themselves with a unique material blend of Nylon, UMPE, and Silicon, crafting a delightfully creamy yet lightweight switch that arrives unlubricated for a slightly textured feel out of the box. While both switches offer a mild and neutral typing experience, the Cloudy Shadow is low-pitched, while the Keygeek Raw is subtle with added texture. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
57.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon & UPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UMPE & Si blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw differ in terms of their composition and the resulting sound profiles. The Cloudy Shadow features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This material is especially beneficial for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Keygeek Raw utilizes a Nylon & UPE blend for its top housing, offering a unique sound experience exclusive to Keygeek Raw switches.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Cloudy Shadow boasts a nylon material which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. Conversely, the Keygeek Raw utilizes a UMPE & Si blend for its bottom housing, providing a distinct sound experience exclusive to this switch. These differences in housing materials showcase the variety of sound profiles that can be achieved through the use of different plastics in switch construction.
Despite these differences, the qualities of each housing material play a significant role in the overall sound and feel of the switch. While the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Both the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw offer unique sound profiles due to their specific housing materials, highlighting the importance of material selection in switch design.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch, it is evident that both switches have an actuation force of None grams, meaning they require the same amount of force to trigger a keystroke. However, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it heavier than the Keygeek Keygeek Raw which has a bottom out force of 57.5 grams. This difference in bottom out force means that the Aflion Cloudy Shadow provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel compared to the Keygeek Keygeek Raw. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, the Keygeek Keygeek Raw would be the better choice, while those who prefer a heavier push feel may opt for the Aflion Cloudy Shadow. Ultimately, the decision 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 Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm standard. The Cloudy Shadow has a slightly longer travel distance than the Keygeek Raw, but the difference is minimal. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Keygeek Raw with its slightly shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing may lean towards the Cloudy Shadow. Overall, both switches offer similar results in terms of travel distance, so the choice between the two may come down to personal preference and typing style.
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 Keygeek Keygeek Raw has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keygeek Raw for $3.51.
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, both the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and Keygeek Raw switches are described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that they can provide a moderate sound experience that is suitable for various environments and preferences. The Cloudy Shadow offers a low-pitched tone, while the Keygeek Raw provides a slightly textured sound out of the box. However, it's important to note that the overall sound of a switch can be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the Cloudy Shadow is noted for its mild typing experience, which offers a gentle and approachable feel that falls within a safe middle-ground zone. On the other hand, the Keygeek Raw switch is described as providing a textured feel due to noticeable friction when pressed. This may appeal to users who prefer a slightly rougher typing experience. Additionally, the Keygeek Raw switch also boasts a gentle resistance and a sound signature that is not resonant, making it suitable for shared spaces.
Taking all the available information into consideration, both the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and Keygeek Raw switches offer unique qualities that can cater to different preferences. While the Cloudy Shadow excels in its neutral sound profile and mild typing experience, the Keygeek Raw stands out with its textured feel and unique material blend. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking to achieve. Regardless of which one you choose, you can expect similar quality results with either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force for a more substantial typing experience, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow with its 63.5g bottom-out force may be the better choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a creamy yet lightweight feel, the Keygeek Keygeek Raw with its 57.5g bottom-out force and unique material blend may be more suitable for you. Additionally, if you prefer a neutral sound profile, both switches offer this characteristic. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for bottom-out force, feel, and sound.
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