Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2)
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2). The Cloudy Shadow, a linear switch, is praised for its 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 Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2), also a linear switch, stands out for its resonant and clacky notes, along with an impeccable factory lube job that guarantees a silky smooth keystroke experience. While the Cloudy Shadow offers a mild and neutral typing experience, the Strawberry Wine (V2) provides a high-pitched and clacky feel. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. 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
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Y3
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Ly
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Spring
Single-staged 21mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2), we can see that they both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This means that both switches will offer a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to polycarbonate's stiffness and clear resonant qualities. However, the Cloudy Shadow's polycarbonate top housing is specifically designed to enhance RGB lighting effects, making it a popular choice for those looking to customize their mechanical keyboards with colorful lighting options. In contrast, the Strawberry Wine (V2) utilizes a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, adding a unique auditory experience for users.
Moving on to the bottom housings, both the Cloudy Shadow and the Strawberry Wine (V2) feature nylon as their material of choice. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound, which can be quite satisfying for users who prefer a quieter typing experience. With both switches utilizing nylon for their bottom housings, users can expect similar sound characteristics when typing on either of these switches.
While the Cloudy Shadow and the Strawberry Wine (V2) have differences in their top housing materials (polycarbonate vs. POM), they both share nylon as the material for their bottom housings. This means that despite the differences in sound profiles caused by the top housing materials, users can still experience a similar deeper and fuller sound when typing on these switches. The split qualities between the top and bottom housing materials also mean that users can enjoy a variety of sound experiences depending on whether they are pressing down on a key or releasing it. Overall, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, making them both excellent options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts looking to customize their typing experience.
Weight
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch have differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Cloudy Shadow has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it medium-heavy, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) has a bottom out force of 50 grams, which is considered light. The actuation force of the Cloudy Shadow is unknown, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) has an actuation force of 45 grams. The weight of the Strawberry Wine (V2) is lighter compared to the Cloudy Shadow, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods. On the other hand, the Cloudy Shadow offers a heavier bottom out force for users who seek a more substantial and tactile typing feel. Both switches provide different typing experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to users with varying preferences.
Travel distance
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to the more traditional 4.0 mm distance. Gamers may prefer the Cloudy Shadow for its slightly longer travel distance, providing a bit more depth and feedback when typing. On the other hand, those looking for a quicker response time may opt for the Strawberry Wine (V2) with its slightly shorter travel distance. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing experience.
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 Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Strawberry Wine (V2) for $4.35.
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 offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a mellow and balanced typing experience suitable for most users. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch is known for its clacky and resonant sound, creating a sharp and immersive auditory experience with higher-pitched notes. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the more neutral tones of the Cloudy Shadow or the vibrant clacks of the Strawberry Wine.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch delivers a mild typing experience, offering a gentle and approachable feel to users. With its bouncy feel due to extended springs, typists can enjoy a balanced tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch provides a silky smooth typing experience, thanks to an impeccable factory lube job that minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Users looking for a more smooth and effortless typing feel may prefer the Strawberry Wine over the Cloudy Shadow.
Overall, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switches offer distinct sound and feel qualities catering to different preferences. While the Cloudy Shadow provides a neutral and bouncy typing experience with low-pitched tones, the Strawberry Wine offers a clacky and resonant sound with a silky smooth feel. Both switches showcase innovation and quality craftsmanship, allowing users to select based on their individual preferences for sound and typing feel. Ultimately, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch option.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch or the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a neutral sound profile with a bouncy feel, then the Cloudy Shadow would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a clacky and resonant sound profile with a silky smooth typing experience, then the Strawberry Wine (V2) switch would be more suited to your taste. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different needs, so consider what qualities are most important to you when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on what typing experience you are looking for.
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