Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. Durock White Lotus
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Durock White Lotus 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 Durock White Lotus tactile switch offer unique typing experiences for different preferences. The Cloudy Shadow is praised for its neutral sound signature and bouncy feel, providing a balanced typing experience with a 63.5g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the White Lotus offers a delicate tactility that strikes the perfect balance for work and extended typing sessions, while also allowing for vibrant RGB lighting effects. Both switches are categorized as having a 'Low-pitched' and 'Mild' sound, but the Cloudy Shadow is more 'Neutral' while the White Lotus is more 'Subtle'. If you are looking for a switch with a bouncy feel and neutral sound, the Cloudy Shadow may be the way to go. However, if you prefer a delicate tactility with customizable RGB lighting, the White Lotus may be the better choice. 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
46g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
56g
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
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated long spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Durock White Lotus both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their overall sound profile. The Cloudy Shadow's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its relatively stiffer plastic composition. On the other hand, the White Lotus's modified PC & UPE Blend top housing provides a premium and unique feel to the switches. While both housings are designed to enhance the sound and feel of the switches, they offer slightly different characteristics to suit different preferences.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Cloudy Shadow and the White Lotus feature nylon bottom housings. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. Therefore, both switches will likely offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel when it comes to the bottom housing material. This consistency in material choice may lead to a similar overall typing experience between the two switches, despite their differences in top housing material.
Overall, the choice of housing material in a switch can greatly impact the typing experience and sound profile. While the Cloudy Shadow's polycarbonate top housing offers a clear and resonant sound, the White Lotus's modified PC & UPE Blend top housing provides a unique and premium feel. Both switches feature nylon bottom housings that create a deeper and fuller sound profile. Whether a user prefers a sharper, higher-pitched sound or a more premium feel, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience of each switch.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch differ significantly. The Cloudy Shadow has an actuation force of None grams, meaning it requires very little force to activate a keystroke, while the White Lotus requires 46 grams, giving it a slightly more substantial typing feel. In terms of bottom out force, the Cloudy Shadow is heavier at 63.5 grams compared to the White Lotus at 56 grams. This means that the Cloudy Shadow provides a firmer typing experience when fully pressed. Individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods may lean towards the White Lotus, while those who enjoy a heavier and more tactile feel may opt for the Cloudy Shadow for a more robust typing experience.
Travel distance
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Durock White Lotus tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the White Lotus has a slightly longer distance compared to the Cloudy Shadow. A 0.5 mm may not seem like much, but it can make a difference in how the switch feels and performs. Gamers looking for faster response times may lean towards the Cloudy Shadow with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more deliberate key press may opt for the White Lotus with its slightly longer travel distance. Both switches offer different experiences, so it ultimately depends on personal preference in terms of 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 Durock White Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the White Lotus for $4.57.
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 linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch share similar qualities. They are both described as having a low-pitched and neutral sound profile. This means that they offer a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches, making them suitable for most users in various settings. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Cloudy Shadow linear switch is noted for providing a mild typing experience, offering a gentle feel that falls in a safe middle-ground zone. On the other hand, the White Lotus tactile switch is highlighted for being easy-to-press, requiring minimal force to activate, thus reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Additionally, the White Lotus switch is described as having a subtle and mild typing feel, making it comfortable for extended use without being overly pronounced.
Overall, both the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch offer unique advantages in the realm of mechanical keyboard switches. The Cloudy Shadow provides a bouncy feel with balanced typing experience, while the White Lotus offers a delicate tactility that is ideal for extended typing sessions. Depending on your preference in terms of sound and feel, you can achieve satisfying typing experiences with either of these switches. Whether you opt for the Cloudy Shadow or the White Lotus, you can expect quality and innovation from these rising stars in the industry.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, consider your preference for typing force and sound. If you prefer a slightly heavier typing experience with a bouncy feel and neutral sound, the Cloudy Shadow with its 63.5g bottom-out force may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter tactile switch with delicate tactility and the option for vibrant RGB lighting effects, the White Lotus with its 56g bottom-out force could be more suitable for your typing needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your typing preferences and whether you prioritize typing force or tactile feedback in your mechanical keyboard switch choice.
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