Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. Dareu Snow
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Dareu Snow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Dareu Snow mechanical keyboard switches, both being linear switches, certain distinctions become apparent. The Cloudy Shadow, known for its rapid rise in the industry, offers a balanced typing experience with a neutral sound signature and bouncy feel, thanks to its extended springs and 63.5g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow switch sets itself apart with its innovative use of POK material in both the top housing and stem, resulting in a smoother linear typing experience with a deeper sound signature. While the Cloudy Shadow leans towards a mild and neutral typing experience, the Snow offers a thocky, bouncy, and low-pitched 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
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
POK
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Dareu Snow, it is clear that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This choice of material results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. However, the Cloudy Shadow's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, due to its stiffness and clarity. On the other hand, the Snow's POK top housing is known for its smooth, clacky, and durable qualities, surpassing nylon in terms of wear resistance and shock resistance. While both switches offer unique sound profiles, the Cloudy Shadow's polycarbonate top housing may provide a more resonant sound with RGB lighting capabilities, while the Snow's POK top housing may offer a smoother and more durable typing experience.
The choice of material for the top housing sets the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Dareu Snow apart. The Cloudy Shadow's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharp and crisp sound profile, thanks to its stiffness and translucency, making it ideal for RGB lighting effects. In contrast, the Snow's POK top housing is known for its smooth and clacky feel, with exceptional durability and wear resistance. Both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. While the Cloudy Shadow may cater to those seeking a more resonant sound with RGB lighting features, the Snow's POK top housing appeals to users looking for a smooth and durable typing experience.
Overall, the housing materials of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Dareu Snow play a significant role in determining the sound profile and feel of each switch. The Cloudy Shadow's combination of polycarbonate and nylon creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, particularly on the top housing, while the Snow's POK material contributes to smooth and durable typing experience. Both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches may come down to personal preference, with the Cloudy Shadow offering a more resonant sound with RGB lighting capabilities, and the Snow providing a smoother and clacky typing experience with exceptional durability.
Weight
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch have distinct differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Cloudy Shadow switch has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it medium-heavy, whereas the Snow switch has a bottom out force of 60 grams, which is slightly lighter and considered medium. The actuation force of the Snow switch is 50 grams, while the actuation force of the Cloudy Shadow switch is unknown. Those looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the Snow switch, as it has a slightly lower bottom out force. Meanwhile, those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Cloudy Shadow switch for its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in typing experience.
Travel distance
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Dareu Snow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches have shorter travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0mm, making them suitable for users looking for faster response times, especially gamers. However, the Cloudy Shadow has a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a bit more depth and feedback compared to the Snow. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance - whether you prefer a slightly longer travel distance for a more tactile feel or a shorter travel distance for quicker response times.
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 Snow has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Snow for $5.76.
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 bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow linear switch presents a deeper, thocky sound signature due to its innovative use of POK material in the construction. Both switches fall under the neutral sound category, catering to a wide range of users, although the Snow switch may offer a more distinct and satisfying sound experience.
When it comes to feel, the Cloudy Shadow linear switch is known for its mild typing experience, offering a gentle and approachable feel that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone. In contrast, the Dareu Snow linear switch delivers a bouncy sensation, providing a spring-like feedback that enhances the typing experience with a lively feel and rebound when keys are pressed. Both switches offer unique tactile feedback, catering to different preferences in typing feel.
Overall, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and Dareu Snow linear switches provide distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. While the Cloudy Shadow offers a bouncy feel with a neutral sound profile, the Snow switch delivers a deeper, thocky sound with a bouncy typing sensation. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer quality performance and innovation in the mechanical keyboard market, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, consider choosing the Cloudy Shadow if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom-out force of 63.5 grams, a neutral sound signature, and a mild typing experience. On the other hand, opt for the Snow switch if you lean towards a lighter bottom-out force of 60 grams, a deeper thocky sound profile, and a bouncy typing feel due to its POK material construction. Both switches offer their own unique characteristics, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style when making your decision.
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