Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. Wuque Studio WS Morandi
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi are both linear mechanical keyboard switches, each offering unique features and characteristics. The Cloudy Shadow provides a balanced typing experience with a neutral sound signature and bouncy feel, thanks to its extended springs and 63.5g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the WS Morandi switches are known for their ultra-smooth feel and unique UPE stem, which offers a dry, airy, and wispy smoothness. Additionally, the WS Morandi switches feature a light-diffusing column that enhances RGB visuals, creating a mesmerizing effect. While the Cloudy Shadow offers a more mild and neutral typing experience, the WS Morandi switches provide a buttery, creamy feel with a slightly more muted sound profile. 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
3.50 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 Morandi, we see that both switches utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Cloudy Shadow features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and clearer sound profile, especially when paired with RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the WS Morandi's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. However, both switches share a POM bottom housing, which contributes to their unique sound profile that leans towards the deeper side.
While the Cloudy Shadow's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound and creates a duller, rounder sound profile, the WS Morandi's POM bottom housing also contributes to the switch's deeper and more muted sound profile. Despite the differences in their top housings, both switches excel in offering a unique and pleasing sound experience that is enhanced by their choice of materials. The use of nylon in the Cloudy Shadow and POM in the WS Morandi showcases how different materials can impact sound and user experience in mechanical keyboards.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in both the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi plays a significant role in shaping the sound and feel of these switches. While the Cloudy Shadow focuses on creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, the WS Morandi opts for a deeper and more muted sound profile with its POM top and bottom housings. Despite these differences, both switches offer a unique typing experience that highlights the importance of housing materials in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which is slightly heavier compared to the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch with a bottom out force of 60 grams. Both switches have a similar actuation force, with the Cloudy Shadow having None grams and the WS Morandi having 50 grams. The Cloudy Shadow provides a slightly heavier typing experience overall, while the WS Morandi offers a lighter touch. This means that the Cloudy Shadow may be more suitable for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel, while the WS Morandi is better for users who prefer a lighter and more responsive typing experience for extended periods of time. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom is equal. As a result, users can expect similar results in terms of key feel and responsiveness from both switches. Overall, the travel distance of both switches is identical, making them equally suitable options for those looking for a consistent typing experience.
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 Morandi comes in at $3.90 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, both the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi switches offer a low-pitched profile, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. The Cloudy Shadow is noted for its neutral sound signature, suitable for various typing environments, while the WS Morandi has a slightly more muted sound profile with a subdued and thocky quality, adding a unique depth to the typing experience. Ultimately, both switches will deliver a pleasant auditory experience, with the WS Morandi offering a more subtle and rich sound compared to the Cloudy Shadow.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow switch offers a mild typing experience, providing a gentle and approachable feel that falls in a safe middle-ground zone. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Morandi switch is described as buttery, creamy, and silky, emphasizing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with a seamless and effortless typing sensation. While the Cloudy Shadow offers a more balanced and mild typing experience, the WS Morandi switches excel in providing a luxurious and silky smoothness that enhances the overall typing feel.
Overall, both the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switches bring unique qualities to the table. The Cloudy Shadow excels in providing a neutral sound signature and a balanced typing experience with its bouncy feel, while the WS Morandi stands out for its innovative design, visually appealing light diffusion, and ultra-smooth typing experience. Whether you prefer a more neutral and gentle typing feel or a luxurious and buttery smoothness, both switches offer quality and innovation that will enhance your mechanical keyboarding experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetic appeal.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a slightly heavier typing experience, the Cloudy Shadow with a bottom out force of 63.5 grams may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch, the WS Morandi with a bottom out force of 60 grams could be more suitable. Additionally, consider the sound and feel preferences. The Cloudy Shadow offers a neutral and mild typing experience, while the WS Morandi provides a subdued, thocky, and buttery feel with a touch of creaminess. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and preferences for sound and feel. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your individual typing needs.
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