Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. TKC Tangerine
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the TKC Tangerine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the TKC Tangerine, both of which are linear switches. 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 Tangerine switch promises to elevate your typing experience with its incredibly smooth feel, attributed in part to the rare UHWMPE housings it features. While the Cloudy Shadow is described as being low-pitched, mild, and neutral, the Tangerine is characterized as frictionless, buttery, high-pitched, and polished. Each switch has its unique qualities that appeal to different preferences, but 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the TKC Tangerine both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Cloudy Shadow's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, ideal for those who prefer a more defined typing experience. In comparison, the Tangerine's UHWMPE top housing offers a bright sound signature with resonant clacks, providing a different auditory experience for users. While both materials excel in producing clear sound profiles, the polycarbonate of the Cloudy Shadow is known for its stiffness, while the UHWMPE of the Tangerine is newer and offers a unique brightness to the typing experience.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Cloudy Shadow utilizes nylon, known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. This softer plastic absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound that may appeal to those seeking a more muted typing experience. On the other hand, the Tangerine features a UHWMPE bottom housing, contributing to its bright sound signature and offering resonant clacks when typing. The differences in these housing materials result in contrasting sound profiles, catering to varying preferences among keyboard enthusiasts.
When comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the TKC Tangerine, it is evident that the choice of material greatly impacts the sound profile of each switch. While the Cloudy Shadow combines polycarbonate and nylon for a mix of crispness and depth in its sound, the Tangerine offers UHWMPE for a brighter and resonant typing experience. Despite their differences, both switches showcase the versatility of housing materials in influencing sound quality. Whether you prefer a sharper, defined sound like the Cloudy Shadow or a brighter, clackier sound like the Tangerine, each switch offers a unique typing experience that caters to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, it is evident that the Cloudy Shadow is slightly heavier with a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, compared to the Tangerine's 62 grams. Both switches have an unknown actuation force, but the bottom out force gives us an idea of the overall feel of the switch. The Cloudy Shadow provides a medium-heavy typing experience, while the Tangerine offers a medium feel. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the TKC Tangerine may be the better option for longer typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, if a stronger push feel is desired for a more substantial typing experience, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow would be the choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would depend on personal preference for typing force and feel.
Travel distance
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the TKC Tangerine linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Tangerine switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Cloudy Shadow. The Cloudy Shadow with its shorter travel distance may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, while the Tangerine switch, with its longer travel distance, may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial keypress feel. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distance, so it ultimately depends on personal preference regarding which one would be more suitable for individual use.
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 TKC Tangerine comes in at $6.30 per 10 switches.
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 offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine features a high-pitched sound, producing a sharp and crisp noise when pressed. Depending on personal preference, users may prefer the more balanced and moderate sound of the Cloudy Shadow or the sharper and more distinctive sound of the Tangerine.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow offers a mild typing experience, providing a gentle and approachable feel suitable for most users. In contrast, the TKC Tangerine boasts a frictionless, buttery, and polished feel, offering an extremely smooth, effortless, and refined typing experience with minimal resistance or friction when pressing the keys. Users may appreciate the soft and gentle typing sensation of the Cloudy Shadow or the ultra-smooth and polished feel of the Tangerine based on their personal preferences.
Overall, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the TKC Tangerine both offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the Cloudy Shadow provides a balanced and neutral typing experience with a low-pitched sound, the Tangerine delivers a more distinct and high-pitched sound with a frictionless and buttery feel. Ultimately, users can expect a quality typing experience from both switches, albeit with slightly different sound and feel profiles.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom-out force for more tactile feedback, opt for the Cloudy Shadow with its 63.5g force. Additionally, if you prefer a low-pitched sound profile and a mild typing feel, the Cloudy Shadow would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth typing experience with a slightly lower bottom-out force of 62g, along with a high-pitched sound profile and a frictionless, buttery, and polished feel, then the Tangerine linear switch would be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking to achieve.
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