Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Dareu Sky POM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and Dareu Sky POM stand out as exceptional choices, both being linear switches. The Cloudy Shadow from Aflion is praised for its neutral sound signature and bouncy feel, thanks to its extended springs, providing a balanced typing experience with a 63.5g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM is crafted from POM material, offering a clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and a gentle actuation force, all at an accessible price point. While the Cloudy Shadow is known for its mild and neutral characteristics, the Sky POM boasts a buttery, creamy, and silky feel. Both switches have their unique strengths, making them suitable for different preferences and typing styles. 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
40g
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
3.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Dareu Sky POM both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for a clear and resonant sound, making it a popular choice for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this material for the top housing, the Cloudy Shadow's top housing may provide a slightly different sound profile compared to the Sky POM due to other factors at play.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Cloudy Shadow and the Sky POM feature a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use nylon bottom housings. While both switches share this material for the bottom housing, the specific design and construction of each switch may impact the overall sound and feel experienced by the user.
Overall, the combination of different housing materials in the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Dareu Sky POM allows for a unique sound profile with varying characteristics. The split between the top and bottom housing materials in each switch contributes to a balance between impact and sound quality when pressing down on the switch and releasing a key. Both switches offer a distinct typing experience based on the materials used for their housings, with the Cloudy Shadow potentially providing a sharper and crisper sound profile compared to the Sky POM's deeper and more muted sound.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, there are significant differences. The Cloudy Shadow has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 63.5 grams but an unspecified actuation force, while the Sky POM has a light actuation force of 40 grams but an unknown bottom out force. This means that the Cloudy Shadow is heavier to press down fully, while the Sky POM requires less force to trigger a keystroke. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Sky POM, while those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may prefer the Cloudy Shadow. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's 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 Dareu Sky POM linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. The Cloudy Shadow would be considered the shorter option compared to the Sky POM. Gamers may prefer the Cloudy Shadow for its shorter travel distance, as it can provide faster response times during gameplay. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Sky POM with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key feel 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 Dareu Sky POM has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sky POM for $4.98.
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
When it comes to sound, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch is known for its low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a mellow and balanced typing experience suitable for various environments. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM linear switch offers a low-pitched sound with a clacky nature, adding a unique touch to the typing experience. Both switches offer a different sound experience, with the Cloudy Shadow leaning towards a more neutral and bass-heavy tone, while the Sky POM provides a clacky sound that may appeal to those looking for a more distinct auditory feedback.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch is characterized by a mild typing experience, offering a gentle and approachable feel that falls into a safe middle-ground zone. In contrast, the Dareu Sky POM linear switch is described as buttery, creamy, and silky, providing a smooth and effortless keystroke sensation. The Sky POM's use of POM material contributes to its exceptionally smooth feel, enhancing the overall typing experience with a luxurious touch. While the Cloudy Shadow offers a mild typing experience suitable for most users, the Sky POM stands out with its buttery and creamy feel, providing a more luxurious and fluid keystroke sensation.
In conclusion, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Cloudy Shadow provides a balanced and neutral sound with a mild typing experience, while the Sky POM offers a clacky sound with a buttery, creamy, and silky feel that adds luxury to the typing experience. Both switches cater to different preferences, so choosing between the two will depend on whether you prefer a more neutral sound and gentle typing experience (Cloudy Shadow) or a clacky sound and smooth, luxurious feel (Sky POM). Ultimately, both switches offer high-quality performance and innovative features, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for users.
Conclusion
Therefore, when deciding between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, consider your preference for bottom-out force. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom-out force, the Cloudy Shadow with 63.5 grams would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with no specified bottom-out force and are looking for a premium POM material construction with a clacky sound, smoothness, and gentle actuation force, the Sky POM switch would be more fitting for your needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal typing preferences and priorities.
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