Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Haimu Viola Tricolor are both unique mechanical keyboard switches that cater to different typing preferences. The Cloudy Shadow is a linear switch known for its neutral sound signature and bouncy feel, thanks to the extended springs, providing a balanced typing experience with a 63.5g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor is a tactile switch designed to deliver a thuddy and punchy sound profile, offering a pronounced tactility without being overly tactile. While the Cloudy Shadow appeals to those seeking a mild and neutral typing experience, the Viola Tricolor is perfect for those looking for a more invigorating and accented 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
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Dual-staged gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Haimu Viola Tricolor both feature polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which creates a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this top housing material, they may have different bottom housing materials, which affects the overall sound profile.
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Viola Tricolor's nylon bottom housing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. As a result, when typing on the Cloudy Shadow, users can expect a unique sound experience that is different from the Viola Tricolor. The combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in the Cloudy Shadow offers a balanced sound profile with both sharp and deep tones.
In conclusion, while both the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Haimu Viola Tricolor share polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and clear sound profile, they differ in their bottom housing materials. The Cloudy Shadow's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, while the Viola Tricolor's nylon bottom housing offers a duller and rounder sound. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound profiles and typing experiences.
Weight
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch both have a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making them equal in terms of the force needed to fully press a key. However, the actuation force for both switches is unknown. The actuation force is crucial as it determines the force needed to trigger a keystroke. In terms of weight, the Cloudy Shadow and the Viola Tricolor are similar, making them suitable for individuals who prefer a medium-heavy typing experience. Some users may gravitate towards a lighter actuation force for extended typing sessions, while others may prefer a heavier force for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, we can see that the Cloudy Shadow has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Viola Tricolor's 3.8 mm. The Cloudy Shadow's shorter distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Viola Tricolor's slightly longer distance may provide a more satisfying depth to the keystrokes. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular in today's market, catering to different preferences for key feel and responsiveness. Whether you prefer the shorter or longer travel distance ultimately depends on your personal typing style and preferences.
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 Haimu Viola Tricolor has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Viola Tricolor for $3.09.
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 linear switch 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 Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch gives a bassy and low-pitched sound that adds a touch of character to typing. The Viola Tricolor provides a richer and deeper sound profile during key presses, offering a satisfying auditory experience that is not overwhelming.
When it comes to feel, the Cloudy Shadow linear switch delivers a mild typing experience with a gentle feel that is approachable to most users. Conversely, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch offers an accented tactile feedback, providing a medium amount of tactility that is not too subtle or overwhelming. The Viola Tricolor switch also brings an invigorating typing sensation with moderate to firm actuation force, creating an immersive feel for users looking for a more engaging typing experience.
Overall, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Cloudy Shadow provides a neutral sound profile and a mild typing experience, the Viola Tricolor offers a punchy sound and pronounced tactile feedback. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing feel, users can choose between the two switches to enhance their typing experience. Ultimately, both switches are designed to provide a balanced and enjoyable typing experience, ensuring that users will get satisfying results regardless of their choice.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you value a balanced typing feel with a neutral sound profile, the Cloudy Shadow with its medium-heavy bottom-out force could be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a tactile feedback that is satisfying without being too overwhelming, the Viola Tricolor with its pronounced tactility and punchy sound profile might be more to your liking. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's essential to choose the one that best suits your typing style and preferences.
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