Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. Jerrzi Salt Ice
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Jerrzi Salt Ice are both linear mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique typing experiences. The Cloudy Shadow is praised for its neutral sound signature and bouncy feel, thanks to the extended springs and a 63.5g bottom-out force, providing a balanced typing experience. On the other hand, the Salt Ice switches stand out for their exceptionally bright and clacky characteristics, along with a light touch that offers vibrant feedback and effortless actuation for a more energetic and responsive typing experience. Both switches have their strengths, with the Cloudy Shadow offering a mild and neutral typing experience, while the Salt Ice provides a more lively and clacky 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
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 Jerrzi Salt Ice, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for incorporating RGB lighting into the switches, enhancing their aesthetics. However, the Cloudy Shadow differs in its use of nylon for the bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature. On the other hand, the Salt Ice sticks to polycarbonate for its bottom housing, maintaining a more consistent sound profile throughout the switch.
The choice between nylon and polycarbonate for the bottom housing of the Cloudy Shadow and Salt Ice respectively affects the overall sound characteristics of the switches. While nylon absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound, polycarbonate's stiffness enhances clarity and resonance. This contrast in bottom housing materials translates to subtle differences in the typing experience and sound feedback of each switch. While both switches possess similar top housings, it is the choice of bottom housing material that sets them apart in terms of sound profile and typing feel.
In conclusion, the Cloudy Shadow and the Salt Ice both showcase the importance of housing materials in determining the sound characteristics of mechanical switches. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches contributes to a sharper sound profile and allows for RGB lighting effects. However, the variation in bottom housing materials - nylon for the Cloudy Shadow and polycarbonate for the Salt Ice - provides distinct sound attributes that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the combination of housing materials in a mechanical switch plays a crucial role in creating a unique typing experience for users.
Weight
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch have different actuation forces and bottom out forces. The Cloudy Shadow has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it medium-heavy, while its actuation force is not specified. On the other hand, the Salt Ice has an actuation force of 45 grams, but its bottom out force is unavailable. This means that the Cloudy Shadow is heavier when bottoming out, while the Salt Ice requires less force to trigger a keystroke. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Salt Ice, while those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Cloudy Shadow. Overall, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in typing force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances when compared to the traditional 4.0mm distance. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Salt Ice for quicker response times, while those seeking a more substantial key press may opt for the Cloudy Shadow with its slightly longer travel distance. Overall, both switches offer a similar experience in terms of travel distance, providing users with a balance between responsiveness and comfort.
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 Jerrzi Salt Ice has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Salt Ice for $2.30.
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
The Cloudy Shadow linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound, providing a mellow tone that is suitable for various settings. Its mild feel ensures a gentle typing experience that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone, appealing to a wide range of users. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch stands out with its bright and clacky characteristics, paired with a light touch for vibrant feedback and effortless actuation. While the sound profile and feel of these switches differ, both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on whether you prefer a bouncy, balanced typing experience with the Cloudy Shadow or an energetic, responsive feel with the Salt Ice. Whichever switch you go for, rest assured that you will get a high-quality typing experience from these innovative offerings.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch or the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, you should keep in mind the differences in bottom out force, sound signature, and overall typing experience. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a neutral sound profile with a bouncy feel, the Cloudy Shadow may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a lighter touch, bright and clacky characteristics, and vibrant feedback, the Salt Ice switch could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style to ensure an enjoyable keyboard experience.
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