Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. Cherry MX Red
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Cherry MX Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch are two popular options to consider. The Cloudy Shadow from Aflion is praised for its balanced typing experience, neutral sound signature, and bouncy feel, thanks to the extended springs providing a bottom-out force of 63.5g. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red is known for its slightly heftier feel, deeper sound profile, and robust typing experience that combines responsiveness with a satisfying auditory depth. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different 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
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
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 Cherry MX Red, one key difference is in their top housings. The Cloudy Shadow features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the MX Red utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer plastic's ability to absorb more sound. While both materials have their unique characteristics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Cloudy Shadow is better suited for RGB lighting due to its translucency, while the nylon top housing of the MX Red offers a classic typing experience.
Moving on to the bottom housings of these switches, we find that both the Cloudy Shadow and the MX Red use nylon for this component. This choice of material in the bottom housing of a switch contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Despite this similarity in housing material, the overall typing experience and sound profile may still differ between the two switches based on their top housing material and design.
When considering how the top and bottom housings of a switch interact to create the overall typing experience, it is important to note that each housing material brings its unique qualities to the table. While the bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. In the case of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Cherry MX Red, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in their respective housings provides distinct typing experiences characterized by their sound profiles and tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience desired.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, it is evident that the Cloudy Shadow has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which is heavier than the actuation force of None grams. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red has an actuation force of 45 grams, which is lighter than the Cloudy Shadow, with a bottom out force that is unavailable. The difference in weight between the two switches means that the Cloudy Shadow offers a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force, while the Cherry MX Red provides a lighter typing feel with a lower actuation force. This allows users to type for longer periods of time without experiencing fatigue. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference - whether one prefers a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Cherry MX Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Cloudy Shadow has a shorter travel distance compared to the MX Red. The Cloudy Shadow's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times, while the MX Red's slightly longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience desired. Both switches offer a different feel and response, catering to different preferences among users.
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 Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red for $4.00.
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 offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red linear switch produces a thocky and low-pitched sound, delivering a deep and satisfying auditory experience that resonates with many users. Depending on personal preferences and setup, the Cloudy Shadow offers a more neutral and balanced sound, while the MX Red provides a richer and more pronounced typing acoustics.
Moving on to feel, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch offers a mild typing experience, characterized by a gentle and approachable feel suitable for a wide range of users. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red linear switch is noted for its textured feel, providing noticeable friction when pressed that may appeal to users seeking a more tactile typing feedback. The Cloudy Shadow's mild feel ensures a comfortable and consistent typing experience, while the MX Red's textured sensation offers a unique tactile feedback for users who appreciate a more tactile typing experience.
Taking all the available information into consideration, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch excels in providing a neutral sound profile and mild typing feel, making it a versatile option for users looking for a balanced and comfortable typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red linear switch offers a thocky sound and textured feel, catering to users who prefer a deeper and more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, both switches deliver high-quality performance, and choosing between the two would depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing feedback.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, consider the following guidelines. Choose the Aflion Cloudy Shadow if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom-out force of 63.5 grams and appreciate a neutral sound profile with a bouncy feel. The Cloudy Shadow is a great option for those seeking a balanced typing experience with a moderate actuation force requirement. On the other hand, opt for the Cherry MX Red if you enjoy a slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, offering a robust typing experience with a satisfying auditory depth. The MX Red is known for its thocky sound and textured feel, providing a different typing experience compared to the Cloudy Shadow. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for bottom-out force, sound profile, and typing feel.
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