Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. Gateron Type S
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Gateron Type S switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Gateron Type S are two options that stand out for different reasons. The Cloudy Shadow linear switch from Aflion is gaining rapid traction in the industry for its neutral sound signature and bouncy feel, thanks to the extended springs. With a 63.5g bottom-out force, it offers a balanced typing experience that reflects the quality and innovation of this rising manufacturer. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S, part of Sillyworks' "Project Rehash," features a slightly heavier 65g bottom-out force, catering to those who prefer a weightier keystroke. Both switches provide a neutral sound signature, but the Type S offers a deeper acoustic experience. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Spring
18mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Gateron Type S both utilize nylon for their bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. This makes both switches ideal for users looking for a quieter typing experience. However, the Cloudy Shadow's nylon bottom housing may have a slightly different feel compared to the Type S due to any additional design elements that Aflion may have incorporated into their switch.
On the other hand, when it comes to the top housing, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow features a polycarbonate material while the Gateron Type S utilizes nylon. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, while nylon elicits a deeper and fuller sound. This contrast in sound profiles between the two switches can cater to different user preferences. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it a better choice for switches intended to use RGB lighting, providing a visually appealing aesthetic element that may not be present in the Gateron Type S.
Overall, while the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and Gateron Type S both feature nylon bottom housing for a similar typing experience, their top housing materials set them apart in terms of sound profiles and aesthetics. Users who prioritize a crisper, sharper sound may prefer the Cloudy Shadow with its polycarbonate top housing, while those who enjoy a deeper and fuller sound may lean towards the Gateron Type S with its nylon top housing. However, despite these differences, both switches offer quality housing materials that contribute to a satisfying typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Cloudy Shadow has an actuation force of None grams, making it lighter in terms of initial keystroke pressure, while the Type S has an actuation force of 55 grams, making it a bit heavier in comparison. In terms of bottom out force, the Cloudy Shadow has a force of 63.5 grams, whereas the Type S has a bottom out force of 65 grams. Both switches fall within the medium-heavy range in terms of bottoming out. Overall, those who prefer a lighter initial keystroke may lean towards the Cloudy Shadow, while those who prefer a bit more resistance might opt for the Type S. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for the typing experience desired.
Travel distance
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Gateron Type S linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Cloudy Shadow offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice amongst gamers. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S provides a slightly deeper key press, which some users may find more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference regarding travel distance and response time. Both switches offer a smooth linear feel, so regardless of the choice, users can expect similar results in terms of keypress 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 Gateron Type S comes in at $4.70 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
When comparing the sound qualities of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, both switches offer a neutral sound profile, providing a pleasing auditory experience without being overly loud or distracting. However, the Cloudy Shadow leans towards a low-pitched tone, giving a more bass-heavy and mellow sound, while the Type S offers a more subdued sound, dampening the noise produced when typing. Ultimately, both switches deliver a balanced sound signature that is suitable for various environments and preferences, ensuring a pleasant typing experience for users.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow is described as providing a mild typing experience, offering a gentle keystroke that is approachable to most users. The extended springs in the Cloudy Shadow switches contribute to a bouncy feel, adding a bit of tactile feedback without being overly pronounced. On the other hand, information on the feel of the Gateron Type S linear switch is not available. However, given its 65g bottom-out force and contemporary factory lubing techniques, it can be inferred that the Type S may offer a more substantial and weightier typing experience compared to the Cloudy Shadow.
In conclusion, both the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. While the Cloudy Shadow provides a low-pitched sound profile and a mild typing experience with bouncy feedback, the Type S offers a more subdued sound and potentially a weightier keystroke. It is important for newcomers to consider their personal preferences in sound and feel when choosing between these two switches to ensure a satisfying typing experience. Additionally, factors such as keyboard build, keycaps, and personal typing style can also affect the overall performance of these switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch or the Gateron Type S linear switch, you should take into account your preference for bottom-out force and sound signature. If you prefer a slightly lighter bottom-out force at 63.5 grams and a low-pitched, neutral sound profile, then the Cloudy Shadow may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a weightier keystroke at 65 grams and a neutral, subdued sound signature, then the Gateron Type S might be more suitable for your typing needs. Ultimately, both switches offer quality and innovation in their own right, so your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and requirements.
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