Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. Gazzew LT
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Gazzew LT switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Gazzew LT both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Cloudy Shadow, a linear switch, is renowned 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 Gazzew LT, another linear switch, stands out with its enticing lilac hue and deep, resonant thockiness that creates an auditory symphony with each keystroke. While the Cloudy Shadow is described as 'Low-pitched', 'Mild', and 'Neutral', the LT is characterized as 'Bassy', 'Thocky', and 'Low-pitched'. Each switch has its own appeal, but diving deeper into their specific qualities can help you decide on the best switch for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.20 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 Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Gazzew LT differ in terms of the top housing. The Cloudy Shadow features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature. On the other hand, the LT utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, which delivers a rich and deep sound profile thanks to its softness. While the Cloudy Shadow emphasizes clarity and resonance, the LT focuses on producing a more mellow and full-bodied sound.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Cloudy Shadow and the LT share similarities in their use of proprietary Gazzew blend materials. Both switches' bottom housings deliver a rich and deep sound profile thanks to the softness of the plastic blend. However, the Cloudy Shadow stands out with its nylon bottom housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Gazzew blend bottom housing in the LT offers a similar deep sound profile but with a different material composition.
When it comes to typing experience, the qualities of the housing materials are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing plays a larger role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. The Cloudy Shadow's combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing offers a unique blend of sharpness and fullness in sound, while the LT's use of proprietary Gazzew blend materials in both top and bottom housings ensures a consistent rich and deep sound profile throughout typing.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Gazzew LT linear switch, the Cloudy Shadow is the lighter option with a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, while the LT is slightly heavier with a bottom out force of 65 grams. In terms of actuation force, both switches have an unknown amount, making it challenging to determine how they differ in terms of initial force required for a keystroke. However, based on the bottom out force alone, it can be assumed that the two switches would provide a similar typing experience in terms of actuation due to the close weight measurements. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gazzew LT linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. Both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to the traditional 4.0 mm standard. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the LT switch. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing may opt for the slightly longer travel distance of the Cloudy Shadow switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and typing style. Both switches offer a unique typing experience, with one being slightly shorter and the other slightly longer in 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 Gazzew LT comes in at $6.50 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
When it comes to sound, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral tone, providing a pleasant typing experience suitable for various environments. In contrast, the Gazzew LT linear switch is known for its bassy and thocky sound profile, delivering a deep and satisfying auditory feedback with each keystroke. Depending on personal preferences and setup configurations, users can enjoy a more mellow and balanced sound with the Cloudy Shadow or opt for a more pronounced and resonant sound with the LT.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Cloudy Shadow is described as offering a mild typing experience, catering to individuals who prefer a gentler feel while typing. Unfortunately, information regarding the feel of the Gazzew LT linear switch is not provided. Nevertheless, based on the characteristics of linear switches in general, users can expect a smooth and consistent keystroke actuation from both the Cloudy Shadow and LT switches.
In conclusion, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Gazzew LT linear switch offer distinct sound profiles and potentially different typing experiences. While the Cloudy Shadow provides a neutral sound and mild feel for a balanced typing experience, the LT delivers a bassy and thocky sound for those seeking a more pronounced auditory feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and typing feel, as both switches can offer a satisfying typing experience depending on the user's preferences and setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Gazzew LT linear switch, consider the following guidelines. Choose the Cloudy Shadow if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a neutral sound signature with a bouncy feel due to the extended springs. This switch offers a balanced typing experience suitable for various purposes. On the other hand, opt for the Gazzew LT if you enjoy a deeper, bass-heavy sound profile with a thocky feel during key presses. These switches provide a seamless glide and an auditory symphony of thockiness. Ultimately, your choice will come down to your preference for bottom-out force, sound profile, and typing experience. Overall, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and needs.
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