Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. SP-Star Meteor Orange
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch. The Cloudy Shadow stands out for its rapid traction in the industry, offering a balanced typing experience with a neutral sound signature and bouncy feel, thanks to extended springs and a 63.5g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches are known for their gentle and seductive tactility, along with a neutral sound profile. While the Cloudy Shadow is best for those who prefer a mild and low-pitched typing experience, the Meteor Orange is ideal for individuals wanting a soft and polished tactile feedback. 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
57g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the SP-Star Meteor Orange, we see that the Cloudy Shadow utilizes a polycarbonate top housing while the Meteor Orange features a nylon top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile, thanks to its relatively stiffer nature that enhances resonance. On the other hand, nylon produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. While both materials have their unique qualities, they cater to different sound preferences with polycarbonate offering a clearer tone and nylon providing a rounder tone.
Moving on to the bottom housing of the switches, both the Cloudy Shadow and the Meteor Orange employ a nylon bottom housing. This means that typing on switches from either keyboard will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile, reflective of the qualities of nylon. The relatively softer plastic of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, despite differences in their top housing materials, both keyboards offer a similar typing experience in terms of the sound profile produced by their nylon bottom housings.
When considering how the top and bottom housing materials impact the overall typing experience, it is important to note that the qualities of each material are allocated differently in the Cloudy Shadow and Meteor Orange. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of a keypress, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. This distribution of qualities between the top and bottom housings highlights the nuanced complexities that exist in the design of switches and how the choice of housing material can influence the overall typing experience for users.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, it is evident that the Cloudy Shadow requires a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it medium-heavy, while the Meteor Orange only requires 57 grams, putting it in the medium-light category. Both switches have an unknown actuation force, which means they will likely provide a similar typing experience in terms of triggering keystrokes. The lighter actuation force of the Meteor Orange may be preferred by those looking for a more effortless typing feel, ideal for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the heavier bottom out force of the Cloudy Shadow offers a more substantial typing experience, appealing to users who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Meteor Orange has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Cloudy Shadow. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Cloudy Shadow being on the shallower end and the Meteor Orange being slightly deeper. Gamers may prefer the Cloudy Shadow for its shorter travel distance, offering quicker response times, while those looking for a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Meteor Orange.Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for 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 SP-Star Meteor Orange has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor Orange for $5.00.
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, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch also offers a neutral sound profile but is described as "thocky," producing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. Both switches offer a pleasant sound experience, with the Cloudy Shadow leaning towards a more low-pitched tone while the Meteor Orange delivers a deeper and more pronounced sound.
When it comes to feel, both the Cloudy Shadow and Meteor Orange switches are described as offering a mild typing experience. This indicates that they provide a gentle and approachable feel to most users, making them suitable for extended typing sessions without causing fatigue. Additionally, the Meteor Orange switch is noted for its polished finish, resulting in smooth key travel and reduced friction. The Cloudy Shadow, on the other hand, provides a bouncy feel due to the extended springs, adding a unique tactile sensation to typing.
Taking all the available information into account, both the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Cloudy Shadow excels in providing a neutral sound profile with a bouncy feel, the Meteor Orange stands out for its thocky sound and polished feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience. However, both switches are designed to provide a balanced and enjoyable typing experience for users seeking quality and innovation in their mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch or the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom-out force and a bouncy feel with a neutral sound profile, the Cloudy Shadow may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom-out force and enjoy a soft and seductive tactility with a thocky sound profile, the Meteor Orange switch could be more suitable. Both switches offer a mild typing experience, making them approachable to most users. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for your typing needs.
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