Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. Durock Sea Glass
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Durock Sea Glass switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch stand out for their unique characteristics. The Cloudy Shadow is praised for its neutral sound signature and bouncy feel, thanks to extended springs, offering a balanced typing experience with a 63.5g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the Sea Glass switch series by Durock features a captivating selection of pastel colors and a distinct dryness, wispiness, and airiness in typing experience, despite its 62g bottom-out force. Both switches have their own appeal - the Cloudy Shadow for its quality and innovation, and the Sea Glass for its weightlessness and smoothness. 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
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
P3+
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
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 Sea Glass, one noticeable difference is that the Cloudy Shadow features a polycarbonate top housing, while the Sea Glass has a unique Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Cloudy Shadow creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, while the Sea Glass's blend offers a sound profile that is pleasant and bright. However, both materials allow for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switches.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Cloudy Shadow's nylon bottom housing is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Sea Glass's blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE in the bottom housing also offers a unique sound profile that is bright and pleasant. Despite the differences in material composition, both bottom housings contribute to the overall typing experience by affecting the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches.
Overall, while the top and bottom housing materials of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Durock Sea Glass may be different, they both contribute to the sound profile and typing experience in their own unique ways. The Cloudy Shadow focuses on creating a sharp, high-pitched sound with its polycarbonate top housing and softer nylon bottom housing, while the Sea Glass offers a brighter sound profile with its blend of materials in both the top and bottom housings. Whether you prefer a crisper sound or a brighter tone, both switches offer a range of options for enthusiasts looking to customize their typing experience.
Weight
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Durock Sea Glass linear switches differ in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Cloudy Shadow has a higher bottom out force of 63.5 grams compared to the Sea Glass's 62 grams, making it slightly heavier. However, the Sea Glass has a lower actuation force of 45 grams, while the Cloudy Shadow's actuation force is not specified. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Sea Glass may be the better option due to its lower actuation force. On the other hand, for those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel, the Cloudy Shadow's higher bottom out force could provide a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing force and feedback.
Travel distance
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Durock Sea Glass linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those looking for quick key response times. Gamers, in particular, may appreciate the shorter travel distance as it allows for faster actions during gameplay. However, those who prefer a more substantial keypress may find the longer travel distance of the Sea Glass to be more satisfying. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of key feel and response time.
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 Sea Glass has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sea Glass for $4.87.
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 recognized for its low-pitched and neutral sound signature, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone suitable for a variety of uses. On the other hand, the Durock Sea Glass linear switch offers a uniquely hollow sound, adding a touch of airiness and dryness to the typing experience. Both switches offer different auditory experiences, with the Cloudy Shadow leaning towards a more balanced and moderate sound, while the Sea Glass provides a distinct and airy typing sound.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch is known for its mild and approachable typing experience, providing a gentle feel that is suitable for most users. The Durock Sea Glass linear switch, on the other hand, offers a frictionless and feathery typing experience, with an easy-to-press nature that minimizes finger fatigue and strain. While the Cloudy Shadow offers a safe middle-ground feel, the Sea Glass provides a smooth and effortless typing experience that enhances comfort during extended typing sessions.
In conclusion, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and Durock Sea Glass linear switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Cloudy Shadow provides a neutral and balanced sound with a mild and approachable typing feel, while the Sea Glass offers a hollow and airy sound with a frictionless and feathery typing experience. Depending on preference and typing style, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different user needs. Ultimately, whether you choose the Cloudy Shadow or Sea Glass switch, you can expect a satisfying typing experience with their respective characteristics.
Conclusion
In summary, when considering whether to choose the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch or the Durock Sea Glass linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom-out force and a neutral sound signature with a bouncy feel, the Cloudy Shadow may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a weightless feel, a distinct dry and airy typing experience, and a unique hollow sound signature, the Sea Glass switch may be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer quality and innovation, so it's important to consider the specific characteristics that appeal to you the most when making your decision.
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