Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile 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 Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch offer distinct typing experiences. The Cloudy Shadow is praised for its balanced typing experience, featuring a neutral sound signature and bouncy feel due to extended springs, with a 63.5g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switch from Wuque Studio provides a profound tactile experience with a 70g bump, immersive resistance, and captivating "thocky" sound from nylon housings. While the Cloudy Shadow is categorized as low-pitched and mild, the WS Heavy Tactile switch is described as accented, bouncy, clacky, high-pitched, invigorating, resonant, sharp, and snappy. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile both feature nylon bottom housings, which are known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to their softer plastic composition. This means that when typing on either of these switches, users can expect a duller and rounder sound compared to switches with harder plastic bottom housings. The similarities in bottom housing material suggest that the overall typing experience in terms of sound may be quite similar between the two switches.
However, where the two switches differ is in their top housing materials. The Cloudy Shadow utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate. This creates a more clear and resonant sound when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile features a nylon top housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This contrast in top housing materials can significantly impact the overall sound experience of each switch.
In terms of aesthetics, the Cloudy Shadow's polycarbonate top housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through due to its translucency, enhancing the visual appeal of the switch. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile's nylon top housing does not offer the same level of transparency for RGB lighting. While both switches may deliver a satisfying typing experience due to their nylon bottom housings, the choice between polycarbonate and nylon top housings ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile and visual aesthetics.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch reveals some key differences. The Cloudy Shadow has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch, while the actuation force is not specified. In contrast, the WS Heavy Tactile has a lower bottom out force of 70 grams but a higher actuation force of 45 grams, also falling into the medium-heavy category. Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing a switch, as a lighter actuation force allows for longer typing sessions, ideal for work or gaming. Meanwhile, a heavier actuation force provides a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, while the Cloudy Shadow is lighter in terms of bottom out force, the WS Heavy Tactile offers a heavier actuation force, catering to different preferences.
Travel distance
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. In this case, the WS Heavy Tactile switch has a shorter travel distance, making it more suitable for those who prefer a faster response time in their typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Cloudy Shadow switch offers a slightly longer travel distance, providing a more robust and satisfying keypress for those who enjoy a deeper feel when typing. Both switches are within a similar range of travel distances, so users can expect comparable results in terms of overall key feel and performance, with the main difference being the slight variation in 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 Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile comes in at $3.50 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
When it comes to sound, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch produces a clacky, high-pitched, and resonant sound that is sharp, crisp, and immersive, making typing sessions engaging and satisfying. Depending on the user's preference for sound, both switches offer unique auditory experiences that cater to different tastes.
In terms of feel, the Cloudy Shadow linear switch is described as offering a mild typing experience, providing a gentle and approachable feel that falls within a safe middle-ground zone. Conversely, the WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch delivers an accented, bouncy, invigorating, sharp, and snappy typing sensation that offers pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a reactive feel. Depending on the user's typing style and preference for tactile feedback, both switches offer distinct typing experiences that cater to different needs.
In conclusion, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch showcase unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Cloudy Shadow excels in offering a neutral sound profile and mild typing experience, the WS Heavy Tactile impresses with its clacky sound, immersive resistance, and pronounced tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the user's personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. However, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch, as they both provide quality and innovation in their respective designs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when selecting between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, consider your preference in typing experience. If you value a balanced typing experience with a bouncy feel and neutral sound signature, opt for the Cloudy Shadow with its 63.5g bottom-out force. On the other hand, if you seek a profound tactile experience with immersive resistance and a "thocky" sound, the WS Heavy Tactile with its 70g bump may be the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a gentler, mild typing experience or a more invigorating, sharp tactile feedback. Consider your sound preference as well, whether you prefer a low-pitched and neutral sound or a clacky, high-pitched, resonant profile. By weighing these factors, you can make an informed decision that will enhance your overall typing satisfaction.
Mentioned in this article
