Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch stands out for its balanced typing experience with a bouncy feel and neutral sound signature, making it a popular choice for gamers and typists alike. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch is renowned for its superior noise reduction and medium tactility, making it ideal for office environments where quiet operation is essential. While the Cloudy Shadow offers a more traditional linear typing experience, the WS Silent Tactile switch provides a unique blend of silence and tactile 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
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
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
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile, both switches feature a nylon bottom housing. The nylon material is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound than harder plastics to create a duller and rounder sound. This similarity suggests that the bottom-out sound and feel of both switches will be influenced by the nylon housing, providing a consistent typing experience in terms of sound quality and tactile feedback.
However, where the two switches differ is in their top housing materials. The Cloudy Shadow boasts a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. In contrast, the WS Silent Tactile features a nylon top housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition that absorbs more sound. This contrast in top housing materials may result in a noticeable difference in sound when pressing down on the keys and when releasing them.
Overall, while both switches share a nylon bottom housing that contributes to a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel, the choice between a polycarbonate top housing in the Cloudy Shadow and a nylon top housing in the WS Silent Tactile will lead to distinct differences in sound profiles. The Cloudy Shadow's sharper and crisper sound may appeal to those who prefer a more defined typing experience, while the WS Silent Tactile's deeper and fuller sound may be favored by those seeking a more muted and rounded sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and tactile feedback.
Weight
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch both have the same actuation force of None grams, making them equally light in terms of the force needed to trigger a keystroke. However, the Cloudy Shadow has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it medium-heavy, while the WS Silent Tactile also has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams. This means that both switches provide a similar typing experience in terms of the force required to press all the way down. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, the Cloudy Shadow may be a better option, while those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may lean towards the WS Silent Tactile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch both have a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making them equal in this aspect. The travel distance of both switches is the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom, which is what you feel when you press down on a key. This means that whether you choose the Cloudy Shadow or the WS Silent Tactile, you can expect similar results in terms of the 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 Silent Tactile comes in at $4.20 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
In terms of sound, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch is described as having a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone suitable for most typing environments. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch is noted for its neutral sound profile with a muted quality, offering a softer and quieter typing experience ideal for office settings. Both switches excel in reducing noise while maintaining a pleasant typing sound, making them suitable options for those seeking a less disruptive keyboard experience. When comparing the two, users can expect similar results in sound quality with slight variations in pitch and tone.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch is characterized by a mild typing experience, providing a gentle and moderate feel that appeals to a wide range of users. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch offers an invigorating feel with accented tactility, combining pronounced feedback with a moderate actuation force for a responsive typing sensation. Despite these differences in tactile feedback, both switches offer a comfortable and engaging typing experience, catering to users with varying preferences in key feel. Users can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch, tailored to their individual preferences.
Taking into consideration the sound and feel qualities of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch, both options offer distinct advantages for different typing preferences. The Cloudy Shadow excels in providing a neutral sound profile with a mild typing experience, ideal for users seeking a balanced and bouncy typing feel. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile stands out for its muted sound profile and invigorating tactility, making it a preferred choice for those looking for a quiet yet responsive typing experience. Ultimately, users can select between the two switches based on their specific preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch, you should consider the following factors. If you prioritize a balanced typing experience with a neutral sound signature and slightly bouncy feel, the Cloudy Shadow with its medium-heavy bottom out force of 63.5 grams could be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you work in an office environment and value a silent yet tactile typing experience without the use of silicone dampeners, the WS Silent Tactile switch from Wuque Studio could be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prefer a more traditional linear switch with a unique feel or a silent tactile switch with superior noise reduction and crisp feedback. Choose wisely based on your preferences and typing requirements.
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