Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring mechanical keyboard switches, two options stand out: the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch. The Cloudy Shadow offers a balanced typing experience with its neutral sound signature and bouncy feel, thanks to the extended springs and a 63.5g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the Blueberry switch stands out for its sharp tactile bump, ideal for those who prefer a pronounced typing sensation with a lower-than-average sound frequency. While the Cloudy Shadow is categorized as low-pitched, mild, and neutral, the NovelKeys Blueberry is described as snappy, buttery, low-pitched, textured, resonant, invigorating, and stiff. Both switches have unique qualities that cater to different preferences in typing experiences. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
3.00 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
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 Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry, a key difference lies in their top housing materials. The Cloudy Shadow utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This is particularly useful for switches with RGB lighting as the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the visual appeal. In contrast, the Blueberry features a POM top housing that produces a deeper and more muted sound, offering a unique auditory experience. Despite their differences, both materials contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches in distinct ways.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Cloudy Shadow employs a nylon material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that is distinct from the top housing's characteristics. Meanwhile, the Blueberry also utilizes POM material for its bottom housing, creating a similarly pleasing and unique sound profile that leans towards the deeper and more muted end of the spectrum. This showcases how the choice of bottom housing material can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of a switch.
When considering the impact of housing materials on key press and release, it's important to note how the qualities of each material are distributed between the top and bottom housings. The bottom housing plays a more significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, highlighting the importance of the material used in this area for the overall typing experience. Conversely, the top housing has a greater influence on the sound produced when a key is released, showcasing how the different housing materials can work together to create a balanced and immersive typing experience in switches like the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry.
Weight
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch have distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Cloudy Shadow has an actuation force of None grams, making it unclear how much force is needed to trigger a keystroke, while the NovelKeys Blueberry has an actuation force of 55 grams. This makes the Blueberry switch lighter in terms of actuation force. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Cloudy Shadow requires 63.5 grams of force, which is considered medium-heavy, compared to the heavier 80 grams required by the Blueberry switch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the NovelKeys Blueberry would be the better choice, as it has a lighter actuation force. On the other hand, if a more substantial typing experience is desired, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow would be the preferable option. Whether you prefer a lighter or heavier typing feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, we find that the Cloudy Shadow has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the NovelKeys Blueberry has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Cloudy Shadow's 3.5 mm travel distance provides a quicker response time, which is ideal for gamers looking for fast-paced action. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry's 4 mm travel distance offers a deeper, more satisfying keystroke for those who prefer a more substantial feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for travel distance - whether you prioritize speed and responsiveness with the Cloudy Shadow or depth and tactility with the NovelKeys Blueberry.
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 Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the NovelKeys Blueberry for $6.25.
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, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches have some similarities in being described as low-pitched. However, the Cloudy Shadow is noted as having a more neutral sound profile, providing a mellow and bass-heavy tone. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry is described as resonant, offering a clean and sharp sound with a higher-pitched profile. Depending on personal preference, the Cloudy Shadow may be more suitable for those seeking a moderate and well-rounded sound experience, while the NovelKeys Blueberry might appeal to those who enjoy a more immersive and sharp auditory sensation.
In terms of feel, the Cloudy Shadow is highlighted as providing a mild typing experience, falling in a safe middle-ground zone that is approachable to most users. Contrastingly, the NovelKeys Blueberry is described as having a snappy, buttery, textured, invigorating, and stiff feel. This means that the Blueberry switch offers a more dynamic and varied typing experience, with a focus on responsiveness, smoothness, texture, feedback, and actuation force. Users who prefer a more engaging and tactile typing sensation may find the NovelKeys Blueberry more appealing, while those seeking a gentler and consistent typing feel may lean towards the Cloudy Shadow.
Taking all available information into consideration, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Cloudy Shadow provides a balanced and neutral sound with a mild typing experience, the NovelKeys Blueberry delivers a sharp and resonant sound with a snappy, buttery, textured, invigorating, and stiff feel for a more dynamic and engaging typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches would depend on personal preferences for sound, typing experience, and desired level of feedback and responsiveness.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and typing style. The Cloudy Shadow is a great option if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, a neutral sound profile, and a mild typing experience. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry offers a heavier bottom out force, a sharp tactile bump for a more pronounced typing feel, and a resonant sound profile. If you prefer a snappier, buttery, textured, invigorating, and slightly stiffer typing experience, then the Blueberry switch might be the better choice for you. Ultimately, both switches have their unique characteristics, so it's important to consider how each aligns with your preferences before making a decision.
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