Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. Wuque Studio WS Jade
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Wuque Studio WS Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Wuque Studio WS Jade are two popular mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique typing experiences. The Cloudy Shadow, a linear switch, is recognized 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 WS Jade, also a linear switch, stands out for its use of a metallic insert in the stem base to create a bright and resonant sound profile, along with a light diffuser for an enchanting RGB display. The typing experience of the WS Jade is described as uniquely creamy and smooth, with a rock-solid bottom-out. While the Cloudy Shadow offers a mild and low-pitched typing experience, the WS Jade provides a clacky and resonant feel. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
UPE
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Spring
18mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Wuque Studio WS Jade, it is evident that they offer different sound profiles due to their unique properties. The Cloudy Shadow's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, in contrast to the WS Jade's POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound. While the Cloudy Shadow's nylon bottom housing offers a fuller and deeper sound due to its softer nature, the WS Jade's POM bottom housing also contributes to a deeper sound profile, resulting in a relatively muted overall sound.
Despite their differences, the Cloudy Shadow and WS Jade share similarities in their sound profiles based on their housing materials. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a clear and resonant sound profile. Similarly, the WS Jade's POM bottom housing also contributes to a deeper sound profile, akin to the Cloudy Shadow's nylon bottom housing. These similarities suggest that both switches are designed to provide a satisfying and unique typing experience, albeit with slightly different tonal qualities.
Overall, the choice between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Wuque Studio WS Jade ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile. The Cloudy Shadow may appeal to those who prefer a sharper and crisper sound, while the WS Jade may be more suitable for individuals seeking a deeper and more muted sound. Both switches offer distinct typing experiences based on their housing materials, showcasing the importance of material selection in achieving specific sound characteristics. Ultimately, whether one chooses the Cloudy Shadow or the WS Jade, they can expect a high-quality typing experience tailored to their sound preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch, it is evident that the Cloudy Shadow has a higher bottom out force of 63.5 grams compared to the WS Jade's 60 grams. However, the actuation force of the Cloudy Shadow is listed as None, while the WS Jade has an actuation force of 50 grams. This means that the WS Jade is slightly lighter in terms of actuation force, making it easier to trigger a keystroke. The Cloudy Shadow, on the other hand, provides a more substantial typing experience with its higher bottom out force. While both switches fall into the medium range in terms of overall force, the slight differences in actuation force and bottom out force may provide varying typing experiences for individuals. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Cloudy Shadow is the shorter option between the two, providing a quicker response time that is favored by gamers seeking faster reactions. On the other hand, the WS Jade offers a slightly deeper key press with its longer travel distance, catering to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for users looking for a more responsive typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a shorter or slightly longer 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 Jade comes in at $4.30 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 to the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch, we see a stark difference in characteristics. The Cloudy Shadow provides a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, offering a mellow tone that is suitable for various environments. On the other hand, the WS Jade boasts a distinctive clacky and resonant sound, with a bright metallic tone that stands out and creates a unique auditory experience. Depending on personal preference and the desired typing atmosphere, users may prefer the neutral and low-pitched sound of the Cloudy Shadow or the bright and clacky tone of the WS Jade.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Cloudy Shadow is described as providing a mild typing experience, offering a gentle feel that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone suitable for most users. In contrast, the WS Jade offers a silky and creamy typing feel, characterized by smoothness and minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The creamy sensation of the WS Jade switch allows for effortless keystrokes, akin to gliding fingers across keys with ease. Depending on individual typing preferences and desired tactile feedback, users may gravitate towards the mild and approachable feel of the Cloudy Shadow or the smooth and buttery sensation of the WS Jade.
Taking into account the sound and feel qualities of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch, it is evident that both switches offer unique and distinctive experiences. While the Cloudy Shadow excels in providing a neutral sound profile and a mild typing feel, the WS Jade stands out with its bright metallic sound and creamy, silky typing sensation. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound and feel, as well as the desired typing experience. It is important to consider factors such as keycap compatibility and overall keyboard setup when choosing between the Cloudy Shadow and the WS Jade to ensure a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you are looking for a balanced typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, a neutral sound signature, and a bouncy feel, the Cloudy Shadow would be a suitable choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a unique, creamy and smooth typing experience with a metallic insert for a bright sound profile, a light diffuser for an enchanting RGB display, and a medium bottom out force, the WS Jade would be the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should align with your personal preferences for sound and feel when typing.
Mentioned in this article
