Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. HC Studio Roselle
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the HC Studio Roselle switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and HC Studio Roselle both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Cloudy Shadow is praised for its neutral sound signature and bouncy feel, making it a great choice for those looking for a balanced typing experience with a 63.5g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the Roselle stands out for its impossibly smooth and ethereally wispy sensation, along with a subtle low-pitched sound signature. While the Cloudy Shadow is ideal for users seeking a neutral and mild typing experience, the Roselle caters to those who appreciate a bassy and frictionless feel. 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
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Y3
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
20.5mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the HC Studio Roselle both offer unique housing materials that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. While the Cloudy Shadow features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffer plastic and sharper sound profile, the Roselle opts for a POM top housing, providing a deeper and more muted sound experience. Despite their differences, both switches aim to enhance the typing experience through their distinct housing materials.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Cloudy Shadow utilizes nylon, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. Similarly, the Roselle also employs POM for its bottom housing, resulting in a pleasing and unique sound that leans towards the deeper side. Both switches prioritize the sound experience by using housing materials that absorb sound differently, ultimately influencing the overall typing sound and feel for users.
When comparing the overall sound experience between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the HC Studio Roselle, it is evident that the choice of housing materials plays a significant role. While the Cloudy Shadow offers a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile with its polycarbonate top housing, the Roselle provides a deeper and more muted sound with its POM top housing. Similarly, both switches aim to enhance the typing experience with their choice of bottom housing material, whether it be nylon for a fuller sound or POM for a unique and pleasing sound. Ultimately, the housing materials of these switches significantly impact the overall sound profile and user experience.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, it is evident that they differ in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Cloudy Shadow has an actuation force of None grams, while the Roselle requires 45 grams to actuate. In contrast, the Cloudy Shadow has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it heavier than the Roselle, which bottoms out at 52 grams. This means that the Cloudy Shadow provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, ideal for those who prefer a heavier switch. On the other hand, the Roselle offers a lighter actuation force, making it suitable for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the HC Studio Roselle linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for their faster response times. However, the Cloudy Shadow offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which may appeal to those looking for a more responsive feel. On the other hand, the Roselle provides a slightly deeper key press, which may be preferred by users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches 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 HC Studio Roselle has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Roselle for $4.70.
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 is known for its low-pitched and neutral sound signature, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch offers a bassy and low-pitched sound profile, giving a deeper and richer tonality during key presses. Both switches share a neutral sound profile, making them versatile options for different user preferences. When comparing the two, users can expect similar results in sound quality, with slight variations in tone and richness.
Moving on to the feel, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow switch is described as offering a mild typing experience, which is more gentle and approachable compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. In contrast, the HC Studio Roselle switch is known for providing a frictionless typing experience, with a smooth and effortless feel that minimizes resistance when pressing the keys. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, with the Cloudy Shadow leaning towards a gentle approach and the Roselle focusing on a fluid and seamless travel. Users can expect a similar level of typing comfort from both switches, with the choice depending on personal preference for feel and feedback.
Overall, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and HC Studio Roselle linear switches both offer unique qualities in sound and feel that cater to different user preferences. While the Cloudy Shadow provides a neutral and mild typing experience with a low-pitched sound signature, the Roselle delivers a bassy and frictionless feel with a subtle low-pitched sound profile. Depending on individual preferences for typing experience and sound richness, users can choose between these switches to enhance their mechanical keyboard setup. Both switches showcase innovation and quality in their design, reflecting the commitment of their respective manufacturers to provide a balanced and enjoyable typing experience for users.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when choosing between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, consider the differences in bottom-out force. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom-out force, the Cloudy Shadow with 63.5 grams may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom-out force, the Roselle with 52 grams may be more suitable. Additionally, take into account the sound and feel characteristics of each switch. The Cloudy Shadow offers a neutral sound profile and a mild typing experience, while the Roselle provides a low-pitched sound and a frictionless feel. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound profile.
Mentioned in this article
