Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. Dareu Mahjong
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Dareu Mahjong switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Dareu Mahjong both offer unique characteristics and qualities worth considering. The Aflion Cloudy Shadow is well-regarded for its rapid traction in the industry and its linear design, offering a neutral sound signature and a bouncy feel due to the extended springs. On the other hand, the Dareu Mahjong stands out with its distinctive green and white color scheme and a lively, poppy sound signature. Both switches provide a balanced typing experience, with the Cloudy Shadow featuring a 63.5g bottom-out force and the Mahjong offering an effortless typing experience. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Dareu Mahjong both feature polycarbonate top housing materials, which are known for creating a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. However, the Cloudy Shadow's polycarbonate top housing is specifically designed to work well with RGB lighting due to its translucency, while the Mahjong's POK top housing is praised for its smoothness and durability. Despite these differences, both switches offer a polished sound profile thanks to their top housing materials.
As for the bottom housing materials, both the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Dareu Mahjong utilize nylon in this component. Nylon is favored for its ability to produce a deep and full sound profile, as it is softer and absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. With similar characteristics in the bottom housing materials of both switches, users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel. The use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures that both switches deliver a rounded and dull sound during typing sessions.
When considering the impact of different housing materials on switch performance, it is essential to note that the qualities of the top and bottom housings are divided between the two components. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while the Cloudy Shadow and Mahjong may differ in their top housing materials, the shared use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures a comparable typing experience in terms of sound profile and tactile feedback.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, we find that the Cloudy Shadow has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, while the Mahjong has an actuation force of 45 grams. The actuation force of the Cloudy Shadow is unknown, while the Mahjong's bottom out force is unlisted. In terms of weight, the Cloudy Shadow is heavier with a medium-heavy bottom out force, while the Mahjong is lighter with a 45-gram actuation force. This means that the Cloudy Shadow may provide a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force, while the Mahjong may be preferred by those looking for a lighter touch during long typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Dareu Mahjong linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the category of shorter travel distances, making them popular choices for gamers seeking faster response times. The Cloudy Shadow offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a slightly more substantial keypress feel compared to the Mahjong. However, the difference between the two distances is minimal, and both switches would likely offer a similar typing experience in terms of travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of how much keypress depth one prefers.
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 Dareu Mahjong has an MSRP of $8.89 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mahjong for $5.79.
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, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch is known for its low-pitched and neutral sound profile, offering a mellow and balanced typing experience suitable for various users and environments. On the other hand, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch is also described as having a neutral sound profile, making it versatile for different typing needs. Both switches provide a pleasant sound experience, and with the other factors like choice of keyboard and keycaps also influencing sound, using either switch would result in a similar auditory outcome.
Moving on to feel, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch offers a mild typing experience, providing a gentle and approachable feel for most users with its safe middle-ground characteristics. In contrast, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch is noted for its bouncy and lively feel, giving users a spring-like feedback sensation and a polished, smooth typing experience. Both switches offer a comfortable typing feel, with the Cloudy Shadow leaning towards a more subtle touch while the Mahjong offers a more dynamic and responsive typing feel.
Overall, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch both bring unique qualities to the table. While the Cloudy Shadow excels in its low-pitched and mild feel with extended springs, the Mahjong stands out with its lively sound and bouncy, polished feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing experience, users can choose between the neutral and mellow Cloudy Shadow or the lively and vibrant Mahjong, both ensuring a satisfying mechanical keyboard switch experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, consider the following factors. Choose the Cloudy Shadow if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 63.5 grams, a neutral sound signature, and a mild typing experience. This switch is versatile, offering a balanced typing experience suitable for both beginners and advanced users. On the other hand, opt for the Mahjong if you are drawn to a distinctive green and white color scheme, a neutral sound profile, a bouncy feel with spring-like feedback, and a polished finish for smooth key travel. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences in terms of typing force, sound, and tactile feedback. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
Mentioned in this article
