Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. Durock POM T1 (Sunflower)
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, it's important to consider their unique features and characteristics. The Cloudy Shadow is praised for its neutral sound signature and bouncy feel, thanks to its extended springs, offering a balanced typing experience with a 63.5g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) stands out for its sharp tactility and satisfying clean clack, providing a punchy typing experience for those seeking maximum tactility. While the Cloudy Shadow is categorized as low-pitched, mild, and neutral, the POM T1 (Sunflower) is labeled as resonant, neutral, sharp, accented, snappy, and invigorating. Each switch offers unique qualities that may appeal to different preferences, making it essential to delve deeper beyond generalities to determine the best switch for your individual needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Proprietary
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower), we see that both switches feature unique characteristics that contribute to their sound profiles. The Cloudy Shadow boasts a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound with clear resonance. On the other hand, the POM top housing of the POM T1 (Sunflower) produces a deeper and more muted sound. While the top housings differ in their sound profiles, both materials offer distinct auditory experiences that cater to different preferences.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Cloudy Shadow utilizes a nylon bottom housing which produces a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. Similarly, the POM bottom housing of the POM T1 (Sunflower) also contributes to a pleasingly deep and muted sound profile. Despite the differences in materials, both bottom housings offer a similar auditory experience with their emphasis on creating a deeper and more rounded sound.
Overall, the housing materials of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) play a crucial role in shaping the sound profiles of each switch. While the top housings differ in their characteristics, both polycarbonate and POM materials offer unique sound qualities that cater to different preferences. Similarly, the bottom housings of nylon and POM create a common ground in producing deeper and more rounded sound profiles. Whether you prefer a sharper, higher-pitched sound or a deeper, more muted tone, both switches provide distinct auditory experiences based on their housing materials.
Weight
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch both fall into the medium-heavy category in terms of weight. The Cloudy Shadow has an actuation force of None grams, meaning it is unknown, while the POM T1 (Sunflower) also has an actuation force of None grams. However, the Cloudy Shadow has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, slightly lighter than the POM T1 (Sunflower) which has a bottom out force of 67 grams. This slight difference could result in a slightly lighter typing experience with the Cloudy Shadow, making it more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming. Both switches provide a substantial typing experience, with the POM T1 (Sunflower) offering a slightly heavier push feel for those who prefer that. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the POM T1 has a longer travel distance compared to the Cloudy Shadow. The Cloudy Shadow falls on the shorter end of the traditional travel distance spectrum, making it a great choice for those looking for a faster response time, such as gamers. On the other hand, the POM T1 offers a bit more depth with its longer travel distance, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and responsiveness.
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 Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the POM T1 (Sunflower) for $5.57.
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 a variety of typing environments. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch delivers a resonant and neutral sound experience with a higher-pitched profile, offering a clean and sharp auditory feedback. Both switches cater to different sound preferences, allowing users to choose based on their personal preference and typing atmosphere.
When it comes to feel, the Cloudy Shadow switch is described as offering a mild typing experience, providing a gentle feel that is approachable to most users. In contrast, the POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch features a sharp and accented tactile feedback, with a snappy and invigorating feel that offers a high feedback intensity without being overwhelming. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences, catering to users who prefer different levels of tactility and feedback in their typing.
Overall, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch provide distinct sound and feel qualities that appeal to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches. Depending on whether you prioritize a neutral sound signature with a bouncy feel or a resonant sound with sharp tactility, each switch offers a unique typing experience that can enhance your overall typing performance and enjoyment. Be sure to consider your individual preferences and typing needs when choosing between these two switches to ensure you get the desired sound and feel for your setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, it ultimately boils down to your personal preferences. If you prefer a balanced typing experience with a bouncy feel and neutral sound signature, along with a medium-heavy bottom-out force of 63.5 grams, then the Cloudy Shadow is the way to go. On the other hand, if you value maximum tactility, sharp tactility, and a satisfying clean clack, along with a medium-heavy bottom-out force of 67 grams, then the POM T1 (Sunflower) is the ideal choice for you. Consider your typing style, sound preference, and desired level of tactile feedback when making your decision between these two impressive mechanical keyboard switches.
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