Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. Gazzew U4T
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Gazzew U4T switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch offer unique typing experiences. The Cloudy Shadow is gaining rapid traction in the industry for its neutral sound signature and bouncy feel, thanks to extended springs, providing a balanced typing experience with a 63.5g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T is praised for its harmonious fusion of thockiness and sharp tactility, producing a bassy 'thock' sound profile alongside assertive tactile feedback. While the Cloudy Shadow is characterized as low-pitched, mild, and neutral, the U4T is known for its bassy, thocky, and sharp qualities. Depending on your preferences, you may gravitate towards the Cloudy Shadow for its balanced typing feel or the U4T for its satisfying auditory and tactile feedback. 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
65g
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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel 17.5mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow features a polycarbonate top housing, which provides a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. In contrast, the Gazzew U4T utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, known for delivering a rich and deep sound profile thanks to its softness. While both materials aim to enhance the sound profile of the switch, the polycarbonate material may lend itself better to RGB lighting due to its translucency, while the Gazzew blend top housing focuses on creating a deep and full sound experience.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Cloudy Shadow's nylon material offers a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics. Similarly, the U4T's proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing is designed to deliver a rich and deep sound profile through its softness. Both materials aim to enhance the typing experience by creating a unique sound profile that is both satisfying and enjoyable. The choice between nylon and the Gazzew blend bottom housing may come down to personal preference and desired sound characteristics.
When comparing the overall sound profile of the two switches, it becomes evident that the choice of housing materials plays a significant role in shaping the typing experience. The split between top and bottom housing allows for a balance between sharpness and deepness in the sound profile, as each material brings its own unique qualities to the switch. Whether it be the sharp and clear sound of the polycarbonate top housing in the Cloudy Shadow or the rich and deep sound of the Gazzew blend top and bottom housing in the U4T, both switches offer a unique typing experience tailored to different preferences and tastes.
Weight
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch have similar bottom out forces, with the Cloudy Shadow being slightly lighter at 63.5 grams compared to the U4T's 65 grams. Both switches have an unknown actuation force, but we can assume that they are likely to be similar due to their comparable bottom out forces. Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing between these switches, as a lighter actuation force may be more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming, while a heavier bottom out force may provide a more substantial and satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and key press weight.
Travel distance
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch have different travel distances, with the Cloudy Shadow having a travel distance of 3.5 mm and the U4T having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the U4T has a longer travel distance compared to the Cloudy Shadow. The shorter travel distance of the Cloudy Shadow may appeal to gamers looking for a quicker response time, while the longer travel distance of the U4T may provide a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a more substantial key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for travel distance and key feel. Both switches offer different experiences in terms of travel distance, but can provide similar results in terms of functionality and performance.
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 Gazzew U4T comes in at $6.50 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
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch is known for its low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a mellow tone suitable for a variety of environments. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch offers a bassy thock sound, creating a deeper and richer auditory experience with each keystroke. When it comes to feel, the Cloudy Shadow switch offers a mild typing experience, appealing to those who prefer a gentler switch sensation. In contrast, the U4T switch provides a sharp tactile feedback with a strong and crisp bump, giving a more intense typing experience.
Overall, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities for users to choose from. If you prefer a more neutral and mild typing experience with a low-pitched sound, the Cloudy Shadow switch would be a great option. On the other hand, if you enjoy a bassy thock sound profile paired with a sharp tactile feedback, the U4T switch would be the ideal choice for a more intense typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference in sound and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, consider the factors that matter most to you. If you prefer a bouncy feel and neutral sound signature with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Cloudy Shadow may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a bassy 'thock' sound profile and a sharp tactile feedback, along with a slightly higher bottom out force, the U4T could be the perfect fit for your typing preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these switches comes down to your personal preference for sound, feel, and typing experience. Choose the one that best suits your individual typing style and preferences.
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