Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. SP-Star Meteor White
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the SP-Star Meteor White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the SP-Star Meteor White both offer unique qualities worth considering. The Cloudy Shadow stands out for its rapid traction in the industry and neutral sound signature, providing a balanced typing experience with a 63.5g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the Meteor White is known for its subdued nature, offering a gentle linear switch that is easy to push and produces a soft pitter-patter sound profile. While the Cloudy Shadow is categorized as low-pitched and mild, the Meteor White is categorized as neutral, mild, thocky, and polished. Both switches have their own strengths, but the ultimate choice will depend on individual preferences and typing needs. 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
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow and SP-Star Meteor White both offer unique housing materials that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The Cloudy Shadow features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This stiffer plastic material allows for a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. In contrast, the Meteor White utilizes a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
However, when it comes to the bottom housings of the switches, both the Cloudy Shadow and Meteor White use nylon material. This classic switch housing material offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, as the softer plastic absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. The qualities of the nylon bottom housing will have a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches when pressed down. This consistency in the bottom housing material highlights the importance of this softer plastic in enhancing the overall typing experience for both switches.
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and SP-Star Meteor White, it is evident that they each bring unique characteristics to the table. The polycarbonate top housing of the Cloudy Shadow offers a sharper and crisper sound profile, ideal for those who prefer a higher-pitched typing experience with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Meteor White produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, catering to users who enjoy a rounder sound when typing. While their top housings differ, both switches share a nylon bottom housing, contributing to a consistent deep and full sound profile that enhances the overall typing experience for users of either switch.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch, it is evident that they differ in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Cloudy Shadow has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it medium-heavy, while the Meteor White has a bottom out force of 57 grams, classifying it as medium-light. However, both switches have an actuation force of None grams, indicating that they require the same amount of force to trigger a keystroke. This means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of initial key press across both switches. The difference lies in the bottom out force, with the Cloudy Shadow offering a slightly heavier typing feel compared to the Meteor White. Depending on personal preference, users may choose the Cloudy Shadow for a more substantial typing experience or opt for the lighter Meteor White for longer typing sessions. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to individual typing preferences and desired typing feel.
Travel distance
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it a shorter option compared to the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. While both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, the Cloudy Shadow offers a slightly quicker response time for those who prioritize speed, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Meteor White provides a bit more depth and satisfying key press for those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference based on whether you prioritize speed or a more tactile typing experience.
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 White has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor White 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 characterized by a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch also has a neutral sound profile but is described as thocky, producing a deep and satisfying sound when pressed. Both switches provide soft sound profiles, ensuring a quiet typing experience suitable for different preferences and settings.
When it comes to feel, both the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switches are described as offering a mild typing experience. This means that they provide a gentle and approachable feel, appealing to a wide range of users with their safe and middle-ground qualities. Additionally, the Meteor White switch is noted for its polished finish, resulting in smooth key travel and reduced friction, enhancing the overall typing experience for users who enjoy a refined feel.
Overall, both the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switches offer similar qualities in terms of sound and feel, providing users with a pleasant typing experience characterized by soft sound profiles and mild tactile feedback. Whether you choose the Cloudy Shadow for its bouncy feel or the Meteor White for its thocky sound, you can expect a balanced typing experience with either switch, reflecting the quality and innovation that these mechanical keyboard switches bring to the market.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch, consider the factors that matter most to you. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom-out force for a more stable typing experience, along with a low-pitched and 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 for easier actuation, along with a neutral sound profile with a thocky feel and a polished finish for smoother typing, then the Meteor White switch might be the more suitable option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and bottom-out force to enhance your overall typing experience.
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