Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch is gaining rapid traction in the industry for its balanced typing experience with a 63.5g bottom-out force, along with its neutral sound signature and bouncy feel due to extended springs. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch is perfect for those seeking a more delicate typing experience or typing for extended periods, with its crisp sound profile from a unique material blend. Both switches offer qualities that cater to different preferences in typing feel and sound. 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
43g
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
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the SP-Star Yanyu, it is evident that they both offer unique characteristics that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The Cloudy Shadow features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the Yanyu's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing offers a more pleasant and brighter sound profile. While both materials contribute to a clear sound, the Cloudy Shadow's polycarbonate housing may be more suited for RGB lighting with its translucency, while the Yanyu's blend provides a unique and distinctive sound experience.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing materials, the Cloudy Shadow utilizes nylon for a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. Meanwhile, the Yanyu's blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE offers a pleasant and brighter sound profile, emphasizing a different tonal quality. Despite these differences, both housing materials play a significant role in shaping the overall sound and feel of the switches. The impact of the bottom housing material is felt more during the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, the varying housing materials of the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the SP-Star Yanyu contribute to their distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences. While the Cloudy Shadow's polycarbonate housing delivers a sharper and crisper sound, suitable for RGB lighting, the Yanyu's blend offers a unique and pleasant sound profile that leans towards the brighter side. Both switches showcase the importance of housing materials in shaping the overall typing experience, with the differences between the top and bottom housings providing a well-rounded tactile and auditory feedback for users.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, it is evident that they have differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Cloudy Shadow has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it medium-heavy, while the Yanyu has a lower bottom out force of 43 grams, which is considered light. The actuation force for both switches is unknown. In terms of weight, the Yanyu is lighter, which may appeal to those looking for a smoother typing experience for extended periods, such as during work or gaming. On the other hand, the Cloudy Shadow being heavier may provide a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch. The Cloudy Shadow offers a slightly quicker response time, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for swift reactions during gameplay. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch provides a bit more depth to each keystroke, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches offer a different experience due to their travel distance, catering to varying preferences in terms of responsiveness and key feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the type of typing or gaming experience desired.
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 SP-Star Yanyu has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yanyu for $5.40.
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, both the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the SP-Star Yanyu switches are described as having a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various typing environments and preferences. The Cloudy Shadow offers a low-pitched tone, contributing to a bass-heavy and mellow sound experience. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch provides a thocky sound, characterized by a deep, rich, and satisfying tone when pressed. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for sound, with the Cloudy Shadow offering a lower pitch and the Yanyu providing a deeper and more pronounced thocky sound.
When it comes to feel, both the Cloudy Shadow and the Yanyu switches are described as providing a mild typing experience. This means that users can expect a gentle typing feel, suitable for extended typing sessions without causing finger fatigue. The Cloudy Shadow switch offers a bouncy feel due to extended springs, while the Yanyu switch provides a feathery sensation with a light actuation force, reducing strain on the fingers. Additionally, the Yanyu switch is noted for its subtle resistance and polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer a comfortable and approachable typing feel, catering to a wide range of users.
In conclusion, both the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the SP-Star Yanyu switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences and typing needs. While the Cloudy Shadow provides a low-pitched sound and a bouncy feel, the Yanyu offers a thocky sound profile, a feathery typing experience, and a polished finish. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on individual preference for sound and typing feel, with both switches delivering a balanced and satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a more medium-heavy typing experience with a balanced feel and neutral sound profile, the Cloudy Shadow with its 63.5g bottom out force may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you lean towards a lighter typing experience with a crisp sound profile and various subtle characteristics like a feathery feel and polished finish, the Yanyu with its 43g bottom out force could be the ideal switch for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the specific qualities you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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