Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. Cherry MX Black
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Cherry MX Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch to the Cherry MX Black linear switch, both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Cloudy Shadow stands out 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 MX Black from Cherry boasts a classic textured smoothness with a deep sound profile when typing. While the Cloudy Shadow is categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Mild', 'Neutral', the MX Black is 'Low-pitched', 'Textured', 'Stiff'. Each switch offers its own strengths, appealing to different typing styles and preferences. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
No
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 Cherry MX Black, it is evident that both switches utilize nylon as their bottom housing material. Nylon, being a softer plastic, is known to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile in switches. This means that when typing on either of these switches, users can expect a similar experience in terms of the sound produced when pressing down on the keys. However, the top housing material is where we see a difference between the two. The Cloudy Shadow boasts a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the MX Black features a nylon top housing, which absorbs more sound and results in a duller and rounder sound profile.
While the bottom housing of both the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Cherry MX Black share the same material, the top housing materials provide a point of contrast between the two switches. The polycarbonate top housing of the Cloudy Shadow creates a clear and resonant sound profile, ideal for users who prioritize a sharper sound when typing. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the MX Black absorbs more sound, resulting in a fuller and deeper sound profile. This contrast in sound profiles can cater to different preferences among users, with some preferring the sharpness of polycarbonate and others preferring the depth of nylon. Ultimately, both switches offer a unique typing experience based on their top housing material.
Overall, the combination of housing materials in a switch plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and feel of the typing experience. While the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and Cherry MX Black share a similar nylon bottom housing, their use of different top housing materials provides distinct characteristics in terms of sound. The Cloudy Shadow's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the MX Black's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound. Users can choose between these switches based on their preference for sound profile, whether they prefer a clear and resonant sound or a fuller and deeper sound when typing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, it is evident that the MX Black is the heavier option. The Cloudy Shadow has an actuation force of None grams, making it difficult to determine the exact force required, while the MX Black has an actuation force of 60 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Cloudy Shadow requires 63.5 grams, which is medium-heavy, whereas the MX Black bottoms out at 80 grams, making it a heavier option. Despite the differences in force, both switches offer a similar typing experience, with the Cloudy Shadow providing a lighter touch and the MX Black providing a more substantial push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference, with some users preferring a lighter touch for extended typing sessions, while others may prefer the heavier force for a more tactile typing experience.
Travel distance
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Cherry MX Black linear switch which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Cloudy Shadow may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, while the MX Black's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth for some users. Both switches fall within the typical range of travel distances, with the Cloudy Shadow leaning towards the shorter end and the MX Black towards the longer end. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00 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, both the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and Cherry MX Black switches are described as low-pitched, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. The Cloudy Shadow, however, is noted for its neutral sound signature, offering a moderate actuation force requirement suitable for various settings. On the other hand, the MX Black switches offer a classic textured smoothness, contributing to a deep sound profile that is familiar to users. Ultimately, the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the Cloudy Shadow switches are characterized as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that falls in a comfortable middle-ground zone suitable for a wide range of users. The extended springs in these switches provide a bouncy feel, adding an extra touch of uniqueness to the typing experience. In contrast, the Cherry MX Black switches are described as textured, potentially providing a more frictional typing sensation that some users may prefer. Additionally, they are noted for being stiff, requiring a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out compared to other switches.
Overall, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switches and Cherry MX Black linear switches both have their own unique qualities when it comes to sound and feel. While the Cloudy Shadow switches offer a neutral sound signature and a mild typing experience with an interesting bouncy feel, the Cherry MX Black switches provide a classic textured smoothness and potentially more of a tactile typing experience due to their stiffness. Depending on individual preferences and typing style, users can expect a balanced and enjoyable typing experience with either of these switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you value a lighter bottom-out force and a bouncy feel, the Cloudy Shadow with its 63.5g bottom-out force may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom-out force and a textured typing experience, the Cherry MX Black with its 80g bottom-out force and classic smoothness may be the right choice. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable for you while typing. Consider your typing style, preferences, and needs when selecting the switch that best suits you.
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