Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. Gateron Lunar Probe

Overview

The Aflion Cloudy Shadow and Gateron Lunar Probe are both linear mechanical keyboard switches designed to provide a smooth typing experience. The Cloudy Shadow stands out for its neutral sound signature and bouncy feel, thanks to extended springs that offer a balanced typing experience with a 63.5g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the Lunar Probe by Gateron features a dual rail mechanism for stable and consistent keypresses, along with a pre-lubed linear sensation that is incredibly smooth. While both switches offer their unique qualities, such as the Cloudy Shadow's balanced feel and the Lunar Probe's stable keypresses, it ultimately depends on personal preferences and typing needs when choosing between the two. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Aflion Cloudy Shadow Linear

Gateron Lunar Probe Linear

$5.50

$3.91 per 10

$6.50

$4.19 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Gateron Lunar Probe both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. However, the Cloudy Shadow and Lunar Probe differ when it comes to their bottom housings. The Cloudy Shadow utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile by virtue of nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Lunar Probe also features a nylon bottom housing, providing similar qualities in terms of sound profile.

While both the Cloudy Shadow and the Lunar Probe share the use of polycarbonate in their top housing, their nylon bottom housings cater to different sound preferences. The Cloudy Shadow's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a duller and rounder sound as a result of nylon's sound absorption properties. Similarly, the Lunar Probe's nylon bottom housing provides a similar typing experience with a focus on a deeper and fuller sound output. Despite these similarities, the bottom housing of these switches will play a significant role in determining the overall sound and feel of typing on the switches.

In terms of functionality, the differences in housing materials between the Cloudy Shadow and the Lunar Probe affect how each switch feels and sounds during typing. The Cloudy Shadow's polycarbonate top housing impacts the sound when the key is released, while the nylon bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel. Similarly, the Lunar Probe's housing materials interact to provide a unique typing experience, with the nylon bottom housing contributing to the switch's overall sound profile. Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in these switches produces distinct typing experiences that cater to different sound preferences.

Weight

In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, it is evident that the Lunar Probe is the lighter option overall. The Cloudy Shadow has an actuation force of None grams, making it difficult to determine the exact force required to trigger a keystroke, while its bottom out force is 63.5 grams, classifying it as medium-heavy. On the other hand, the Lunar Probe has an actuation force of 45 grams, providing a lighter touch for typing, and a bottom out force of 50 grams, which is also considered relatively light. Those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Cloudy Shadow due to its heavier bottom out force, while individuals looking for a lighter typing feel may lean towards the Lunar Probe. Ultimately, the weight of the switch plays a significant role in determining the typing experience and suitability for prolonged typing or gaming sessions.

Travel distance

In comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, the Cloudy Shadow has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Lunar Probe has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter travel distance range, which is increasingly popular among gamers for its quicker response times. The Cloudy Shadow is slightly shorter by 0.1 mm compared to the Lunar Probe. If you prefer a switch with a slightly longer travel distance for a more substantial feel when typing, then the Lunar Probe would be the better option. However, if you prioritize a quicker, more responsive typing experience, the Cloudy Shadow would be the ideal choice. Ultimately, both switches offer similar results with their relatively short travel distances.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch to the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, the Cloudy Shadow provides a low-pitched and neutral sound profile. This means that it offers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, making it suitable for various typing environments and preferences. On the other hand, the Lunar Probe's sound quality is unknown, but it can be expected to offer a subtle sound signature due to its smooth linear sensation. As sound is also influenced by factors like the keyboard casing and keycaps, both switches can deliver pleasing auditory experiences, with the Cloudy Shadow leaning towards a softer tone.

Turning to the feel, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch is known for its mild typing experience. This means that users can expect a gentle and approachable feel when typing, making it suitable for extended use without causing fatigue. Conversely, information regarding the feel of the Gateron Lunar Probe switch is unavailable at this time. However, with its dual rail mechanism promising stable and consistent keypresses, it's likely to provide a smooth and reliable typing experience. Both switches are linear, ensuring a consistent keypress from top to bottom, although the specific tactile nuances may vary between the two.

Overall, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and Gateron Lunar Probe linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Cloudy Shadow excels in providing a balanced typing experience with a bouncy feel and a low-pitched, neutral sound profile, while the Lunar Probe focuses on stability and smooth keypresses. Regardless of the choice between the two, users can expect a reliable and satisfying typing experience, with slight differences in sound and feel to cater to individual tastes. Ultimately, both switches showcase innovation in the mechanical keyboard market, providing users with diverse options to enhance their typing experience.

Conclusion

In closing, when considering whether to choose the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch or the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom-out force and a bouncy feel, then the Cloudy Shadow may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom-out force and a stable keypress experience with a smooth, pre-lubed linear sensation, then the Lunar Probe might be the better choice. Consider your sound and feel preferences as well when making your decision. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that best suits your typing needs.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Cloudy Shadow Linear

$5.50

$3.91 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Lunar Probe Linear

$6.50

$4.19 per 10

Learn more