Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. Kailh Plum
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Kailh Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and Kailh Plum offer distinct typing experiences. The Cloudy Shadow is a linear switch that is known for its neutral sound signature and bouncy feel, providing a balanced typing experience with a 63.5g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the Plum is a tactile switch that feels hefty but lacks a significant tactile bump, offering a unique typing experience with a neutral and enjoyable sound profile. If you prefer a smoother typing experience with a bouncy feel, the Cloudy Shadow may be the switch for you. However, if you enjoy a heavier switch with a unique lack of pronounced tactile bump, the Plum could be the right choice. 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
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Kailh Plum keyboards feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the housing material creates a more resonant sound due to its stiffness. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetic appeal to the keyboards. However, while both keyboards share this feature, the bottom housing material sets them apart. The Cloudy Shadow utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile, which absorbs more sound for a duller and rounder sound. Conversely, the Plum also uses nylon for its bottom housing, offering a similar typing experience with a focus on sound quality.
In terms of typing experience, the split between the top and bottom housing materials affects the overall sound and feel of each key press. The bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, emphasizing the importance of nylon in providing a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the top housing material influences the sound emitted when releasing a key, showcasing the unique qualities of polycarbonate in creating a crisp and sharp sound. While both keyboards offer a mix of the two housing materials, the difference in the bottom housing material may result in slightly varying typing experiences between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Kailh Plum.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in both the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Kailh Plum keyboards highlights the importance of sound quality and typing experience. Polycarbonate top housings create a distinct sound profile that is sharper and crisper, while nylon bottom housings enhance the depth and fullness of the typing experience. Despite the similarities in the top housing material, the difference in bottom housing material contributes to unique sound qualities for each keyboard. Whether it be the duller and rounder sound of the Cloudy Shadow or the deeper and fuller sound of the Plum, both keyboards offer a satisfying typing experience with a focus on sound aesthetics.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, it is clear that both switches have a medium-heavy bottom out force. The Cloudy Shadow has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, while the Plum has a slightly higher bottom out force of 70 grams. However, the actuation force of both switches is unknown, making it difficult to determine which one requires a lighter touch to trigger a keystroke. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Cloudy Shadow may be the better choice due to its lower bottom out force. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Plum switch with its slightly higher bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch offers a travel distance of 3.5 mm, slightly shorter than the Kailh Plum tactile switch which has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. While the difference in travel distance between the two switches is minimal, it could still impact the overall typing experience. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those looking for quicker response times, particularly gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference regarding the feel of the switch and the desired 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 Kailh Plum comes in at $6.25 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 linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch are described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that they provide a moderate sound that is not overly loud or quiet, making them suitable for various environments and preferences. However, it is important to note that sound can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, both switches are described as offering a mild typing experience. This means that they provide a gentle and approachable feel that falls within a safe middle-ground zone in terms of overall tactile feedback. The Cloudy Shadow linear switch specifically provides a bouncy feel due to the extended springs, while the Plum tactile switch is noted for its unique weightiness without a significant tactile bump, giving it a distinct feel compared to other tactile switches.
Overall, both the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch offer a balanced typing experience with their respective sound profiles and feel. While they may differ slightly in specific characteristics such as the bounciness of the Cloudy Shadow and the weightiness of the Plum, users can expect similar results in terms of a neutral sound and mild tactile feedback from both switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, you should consider the following factors. If you are looking for a switch with a slightly lighter bottom-out force and a bouncy typing feel, the Cloudy Shadow may be the better choice for you. Its neutral sound profile and mild typing experience make it suitable for a wide range of users, whether you are a beginner or a seasoned mechanical keyboard enthusiast. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a slightly heavier bottom-out force and a unique tactile feel without a pronounced bump, the Plum switch might be more to your liking. Its neutral sound profile and stepped tactile feedback offer a different typing experience compared to traditional tactile switches. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound.
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