Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. HMX Lotus
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the HMX Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Aflion's Cloudy Shadow linear switch and HMX's Lotus linear switch offer distinct features to cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. The Cloudy Shadow is praised 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 Lotus switch by HMX boasts a medium weight of 50g bottom out and a bright, resonant sound, offering a super bouncy feeling with each keystroke. While the Cloudy Shadow is categorized as low-pitched, mild, and neutral, the Lotus does not have specific categories listed. Each switch has its own unique qualities that may appeal to different types of users. 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
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the HMX Lotus both feature nylon bottom housings, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of the material. However, the Cloudy Shadow has a polycarbonate top housing, leading to a sharper and crisper sound profile compared to the Lotus's nylon top housing, which creates a duller and rounder sound. This contrast in top housing materials showcases how the choice of material can significantly impact the overall sound profile of a switch.
In terms of aesthetics, the Cloudy Shadow's polycarbonate top housing allows for translucency, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. In comparison, the Lotus's nylon top housing does not offer the same level of transparency. This difference in materials not only affects the look of the switches but also the potential for customized lighting effects. Despite both switches having similar nylon bottom housings, the choice of material for the top housing sets them apart in terms of visual appeal and flexibility for lighting customization.
When considering the overall typing experience, the combination of different housing materials in the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and HMX Lotus results in distinct tactile feedback and sound profiles. While both switches use nylon for the bottom housing, the Cloudy Shadow's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper sound when releasing a key, in contrast to the Lotus's nylon top housing, which produces a duller sound. This difference highlights how the housing materials play a crucial role in defining the characteristics of the switches and ultimately shaping the user's typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch, it is evident that they differ in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Cloudy Shadow has an actuation force of None grams, making it difficult to determine the exact amount of force needed to trigger a keystroke. However, its bottom out force is 63.5 grams, indicating a medium-heavy feel when fully pressed. In contrast, the Lotus has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a lighter typing experience overall. The Cloudy Shadow offers a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force, while the Lotus is better suited for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons with its lighter actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch both have the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent and precise typing experience with no variation in travel distance between the two. Whether you choose the Cloudy Shadow or the Lotus, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance when typing.
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 HMX Lotus has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lotus for $2.99.
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 more bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus linear switch has not been described in detail in terms of sound, so it is difficult to directly compare the two switches in this aspect. However, based on the information provided, users can expect a bright and resonant sound from the Lotus switch, which may appeal to those who prefer a more vibrant typing experience.
Moving on to feel, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch is known for its mild and gentle typing experience, offering a balanced feel that falls in a safe middle-ground zone. The extended springs in the Cloudy Shadow switches contribute to a bouncy feel that enhances the overall typing experience. On the other hand, information regarding the feel of the HMX Lotus linear switch is not provided. It can be assumed that the Lotus switch will provide a super bouncy feeling based on its bright and resonant sound profile, offering a delightful keystroke experience for users.
In conclusion, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch have their own unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Cloudy Shadow switch offers a neutral and low-pitched sound with a mild typing experience, the Lotus switch is expected to provide a bright and resonant sound along with a super bouncy feel. Depending on individual preferences, both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience, with the Cloudy Shadow catering to those who prefer a more balanced and mellow sound, while the Lotus appeals to users who enjoy a vibrant and bouncy typing feel. Ultimately, users can expect quality and innovation from both Aflion and HMX in their respective switch offerings.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, opt for the Cloudy Shadow with its 63.5 grams. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, the Lotus with its 50 grams may be more suitable for you. Additionally, consider the sound and feel characteristics of each switch. The Cloudy Shadow offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile with a mild typing experience, while the Lotus provides a bright, resonant sound and a super bouncy feel. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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