Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. Jerrzi Seashell
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Jerrzi Seashell switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow and Jerrzi Seashell mechanical keyboard switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts. The Cloudy Shadow, a linear switch, stands out for its neutral sound signature and bouncy feel, which is achieved through extended springs. With a 63.5g bottom-out force, it provides a balanced typing experience that reflects Aflion's commitment to quality and innovation. On the other hand, the Seashell, also a linear switch, captivates users with its stunning purple hue and light, clacky feel. This switch offers an enjoyable typing experience that is both comfortable and delightful over long sessions. While the Cloudy Shadow leans towards a mild and neutral profile, the Seashell showcases a clacky and feathery nature with a high-pitched tone. Both switches have their unique appeal, making them suitable for different preferences. 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
1.20 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Jerrzi Seashell both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiff nature of polycarbonate, which allows for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it particularly useful for switches with RGB lighting. Both switches will likely produce similar sound profiles and aesthetics due to their shared use of polycarbonate in the top housing.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Cloudy Shadow features a nylon bottom housing while the Seashell also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to other plastics, as it is softer and absorbs more sound. Therefore, both switches will offer a duller and rounder sound when typing, which can be attributed to the nylon material in the bottom housing. This makes them both classic choices for those who prefer a more muted typing experience.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Jerrzi Seashell mainly come down to their bottom housings, as they both share the same polycarbonate top housing. While the top housing has a more significant impact on the sound when releasing a key, the qualities of the bottom housing are felt more prominently during the bottom-out sound and feel. Both switches offer unique sound profiles and aesthetics based on their choice of housing materials, providing users with various options based on their preferences for typing experience.
Weight
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switches have different characteristics when it comes to actuation force and bottom out force. The Cloudy Shadow has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch with no specified actuation force. In comparison, the Seashell has an actuation force of 45 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Cloudy Shadow is heavier in terms of bottom out force, while the Seashell is lighter in terms of actuation force. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended use, the Seashell may be the better option, whereas the Cloudy Shadow could appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, choosing between these switches would depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both of these switches fall into the category of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular for their faster response times, especially among gamers. However, the Cloudy Shadow has a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a slightly more "hearty" feeling when pressed compared to the Seashell. Overall, the difference of 0.1 mm between the two switches is minimal, so you can expect similar results in terms of key press feel and responsiveness when using either one.
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 Seashell has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Seashell 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
In terms of sound, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a mellow tone that is suitable for a variety of users and environments. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch is characterized by a clacky and high-pitched sound, delivering a sharp and crisp typing experience that may appeal to those who enjoy a more percussive sound. The choice between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound preference, whether you prefer a softer, more neutral tone or a sharper, clackier sound.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch is described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that falls within a safe middle-ground zone for most users. Conversely, the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch is known for its feathery and easy-to-press feel, requiring minimal force to activate keys and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the Seashell switch is noted for its polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience that enhances overall comfort and performance. Both switches offer a different typing feel, with the Cloudy Shadow providing a mild and approachable experience while the Seashell delivers a light and effortless typing feel.
Overall, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch stands out for its neutral sound signature and balanced typing experience, with a focus on quality and innovation. In contrast, the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch impresses with its stunning purple hue and enjoyable typing experience that remains comfortable and delightful over long sessions. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities in sound and feel, catering to different preferences and typing styles. Whether you prefer a more neutral and mild typing experience with the Cloudy Shadow or a clacky and feathery feel with the Seashell, both switches provide quality options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when choosing between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch, consider the characteristics that best suit your typing preferences. If you prefer a switch with a moderate bottom-out force, a neutral sound signature, and a bouncy typing feel, the Cloudy Shadow would be a great option for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a switch with a stunning purple hue, a light and clacky feel, and easy-to-press actuation, the Seashell switch might be more appealing. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you are looking to achieve. So, choose wisely based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for you.
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