Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. Everglide Tourmaline Blue

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and Everglide Tourmaline Blue both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Cloudy Shadow linear switch is praised for its neutral sound signature and bouncy feel, thanks to its extended springs and 63.5g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the Tourmaline Blue linear switch boasts a deep and thocky sound profile, along with a lengthened single-stage spring for a satisfying typing experience. The Cloudy Shadow is categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Mild', and 'Neutral', while the Tourmaline Blue is described as 'Buttery', 'Easy-to-press', 'Mild', and 'Neutral'.

If you're looking for a balanced typing experience with a focus on bouncy feel and neutral sound, the Cloudy Shadow may be the way to go. However, if you prefer a switch that offers a deep sound profile and a satisfying typing experience with easy-to-press keys, the Tourmaline Blue might be the better choice. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Aflion Cloudy Shadow Linear

Everglide Tourmaline Blue Linear

$5.50

$3.91 per 10

$6.86

$3.89 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic that leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting as it allows the lighting effects to shine through. However, the Cloudy Shadow uses a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Tourmaline Blue's polycarbonate bottom housing, which absorbs less sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.

In terms of aesthetics, both the Cloudy Shadow and the Tourmaline Blue feature clear housings in their respective top housings, indicating the use of polycarbonate. This not only enhances the appearance of the switches but also allows for RGB lighting effects to be showcased. However, the difference in bottom housing materials affects the sound and feel of typing on the switches. The Cloudy Shadow's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper sound profile, while the Tourmaline Blue's polycarbonate bottom housing creates a sharper and crisper sound. This variance in bottom housing materials can impact the overall typing experience for users.

When analyzing the impact of housing materials on key press and release, it is essential to consider how the qualities of each housing material are distributed between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has a more significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing plays a key role in the sound produced when a key is released. Therefore, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the Cloudy Shadow and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue results in a unique sound profile and typing experience that is influenced by the specific properties of each housing material.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch, it is evident that the Tourmaline Blue is the lighter of the two due to its lower actuation force of 59 grams compared to the Cloudy Shadow's None grams. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Cloudy Shadow at 63.5 grams and the Tourmaline Blue at 67 grams, both falling under the medium-heavy category. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Tourmaline Blue may be the better option, allowing for extended typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Cloudy Shadow provides a slightly more substantial push feel, which may be preferred by those looking for a more pronounced typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.

Travel distance

The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it shorter than the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Cloudy Shadow offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for faster reactions. On the other hand, the Tourmaline Blue provides a bit more depth to the key press, which some users may find more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal preference - whether you prioritize speed or a more substantial keypress feel. Both switches offer a different tactile experience, but either one will provide you with reliable performance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a mellow and balanced typing experience suitable for various users and settings. On the other hand, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue also presents a neutral sound profile, ensuring that it appeals to a wide range of individuals regardless of their typing preferences. Both switches aim to provide an enjoyable and immersive typing experience, making them comparable in terms of sound quality.

In regard to feel, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow is described as offering a mild typing experience, characterized by gentle key presses that should be comfortable for most users. In contrast, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue is noted for its buttery and easy-to-press feel, providing a smooth and effortless typing sensation that reduces finger fatigue during extended use. However, both switches also share the descriptor of being mild, indicating that they offer a gentle typing experience that appeals to a broad audience. Overall, while they have their own unique characteristics, users can expect a comfortable and satisfying typing experience from either switch.

In conclusion, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switches both offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Cloudy Shadow provides a neutral and low-pitched sound with a mild typing feel, while the Tourmaline Blue delivers a deep and thocky sound with a buttery and easy-to-press feel. Despite these differences, both switches aim to provide a balanced and enjoyable typing experience, catering to a diverse range of users. Ultimately, whether you choose the Cloudy Shadow or Tourmaline Blue, you can expect a quality linear switch that enhances your typing experience with its innovative design and premium feel.

Conclusion

In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch, consider your typing preferences and needs. If you are looking for a switch with a slightly lower bottom-out force (63.5g), a neutral sound profile, and a mild typing experience, the Cloudy Shadow may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a slightly higher bottom-out force (67g), a deep and thocky sound profile, and a buttery, easy-to-press typing experience, the Tourmaline Blue could be the perfect fit for your preferences. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what typing experience you value the most.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Cloudy Shadow Linear

$5.50

$3.91 per 10

Learn more

Everglide Tourmaline Blue Linear

$6.86

$3.89 per 10

Learn more