Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
In the fast-paced world of mechanical keyboard switches, two standout options are the Aflion Cloudy Shadow, a linear switch, and the Aflion Thunder Shadow, a tactile switch. The Cloudy Shadow is praised for its neutral sound signature and bouncy feel, thanks to extended springs, offering a balanced typing experience with a 63.5g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow stands out with its pronounced tactile bump and medium weight feel, also featuring a 63.5g bottom-out force. Both switches exhibit a neutral sound signature, showcasing Aflion's commitment to innovation and quality. While the Cloudy Shadow offers a smooth, linear typing experience, the Thunder Shadow provides a more tactile feedback for those who prefer a bit more tactile sensation. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and Aflion Thunder Shadow are quite similar, as they both feature polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer plastic composition. Additionally, its translucency makes it ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Cloudy Shadow and Thunder Shadow differ in their bottom housing materials, with the Cloudy Shadow featuring a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches made with this material.
Despite the differences in their bottom housing materials, both the Cloudy Shadow and Thunder Shadow share the same polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to their similarly sharp and clear sound profiles. The choice of housing materials can have a significant impact on the overall sound and feel of a switch. When pressed, the qualities of the bottom housing material will be most noticeable, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing material will play a larger role in the sound produced when a key is released, highlighting the importance of using the right materials in different parts of the switch to achieve the desired sound and feel. In this case, the presence of polycarbonate in both models ensures a consistent and high-quality sound experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, it is evident that both switches have the same actuation force of None grams. However, the bottom out force of both switches is 63.5 grams, which falls under the medium-heavy category. This means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of actuation force and bottom out force when using either switch. In terms of weight, some users may prefer the lighter actuation force for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may prefer the heavier bottom out force for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and typing style when choosing between the two switches.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch is the same, both measuring 3.5 mm. This means that pressing down on keys with either switch will provide a consistent tactile feedback and typing experience. Despite their similarities in travel distance, the Cloudy Shadow switch offers a linear typing experience, while the Thunder Shadow switch provides a tactile feedback with a slight bump feeling. Both switches are suitable for different typing preferences, with the Cloudy Shadow being smoother and the Thunder Shadow offering a bit more feedback during typing. Overall, whether you choose the Cloudy Shadow or the Thunder Shadow, you can expect a comfortable typing experience with a 3.5 mm travel distance.
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 Aflion Thunder 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 Thunder Shadow for $3.91.
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, both the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and Thunder Shadow switches are described as having a neutral sound signature, meaning they offer a moderate sound profile suitable for various settings and users. The Cloudy Shadow is noted for its low-pitched tone, while the Thunder Shadow does not specify a pitch, but both switches are designed to provide a balanced sound experience that won't be disruptive in different environments. It's important to consider that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors like the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Cloudy Shadow switch offers a mild typing experience with bouncy characteristics due to its extended springs, making it approachable for most users with its safe middle-ground feel. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow switch is described as invigorating, providing a pronounced tactile bump for a more immersive typing sensation. Both switches maintain a 63.5g bottom-out force, ensuring a consistent typing experience in terms of actuation force.
In conclusion, both the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Cloudy Shadow provides a mild and bouncy typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, while the Thunder Shadow delivers an invigorating tactile feedback for a more engaging typing feel. Despite their differences, both switches share a neutral sound signature and a 63.5g bottom-out force, ensuring a consistent typing experience that will yield satisfying results for users looking for quality and innovation in their mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
In closing, when looking to choose between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, consider your typing preferences. If you prefer a balanced and bouncy typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom-out force, opt for the Cloudy Shadow. On the other hand, if you seek a switch with a pronounced tactile bump, harmonious balance, and a medium weight feel, then the Thunder Shadow may be the better choice for you. Both switches offer a neutral sound signature, but the Cloudy Shadow provides a low-pitched sound while the Thunder Shadow delivers a neutral sound profile. Keep in mind that the Cloudy Shadow offers a mild typing experience while the Thunder Shadow offers an invigorating feel with pronounced feedback. Ultimately, your decision should align with your individual typing style and preferences for a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
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