Aflion Cloudy Shadow vs. Zuoce Lavender
An in-depth look at the Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Zuoce Lavender switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Zuoce Lavender are both linear mechanical keyboard switches, each offering unique features to enhance your typing experience. The Cloudy Shadow is praised for its neutral sound signature and bouncy feel, thanks to the extended springs that provide a balanced typing experience with a 63.5g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the Lavender stands out for its exceptional smoothness right out of the box, attributed to its proprietary Ly blend, offering a crisp and clacky sound signature for a satisfying keystroke experience. While the Cloudy Shadow is categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Mild', 'Neutral', the Lavender is described as 'Easy-to-press', 'Clacky'. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style, so 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
48g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Z1 (Ly blend)
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
21mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow and the Zuoce Lavender both offer unique housing materials that contribute to the sound profile of the switches. The Cloudy Shadow features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while the Lavender sports a POM top housing for a deeper and more muted sound. Despite their differences, both materials are known for producing pleasing and unique sound profiles that enhance the typing experience.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Cloudy Shadow utilizes a nylon material, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. Similarly, the Lavender also has a POM bottom housing that contributes to a deeper and more muted sound. Both switches offer a unique tactile feedback when typing, with the bottom housing playing a crucial role in the overall sound and feel of the switches.
While the top and bottom housings of the Cloudy Shadow and the Lavender differ in material, both switches strive to enhance the typing experience through their unique sound profiles. Whether it be the sharper sound of the Cloudy Shadow's polycarbonate top housing or the deeper sound of the Lavender's POM housing, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch. The choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Zuoce Lavender linear switch, it is evident that they have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Cloudy Shadow has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which is considered medium-heavy, while its actuation force is unknown. On the other hand, the Lavender has a lower actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, which is medium-light. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Lavender switch, as its actuation and bottom out forces are lower. In contrast, individuals who appreciate a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Cloudy Shadow switch due to its heavier bottom out force. Regardless of these differences, both switches provide a unique typing experience that can cater to various preferences.
Travel distance
The Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Zuoce Lavender linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall on the shorter end of the spectrum compared to the traditional 4.0 mm travel distance. Gamers may prefer the Cloudy Shadow for its slightly longer travel distance, which can provide a more substantial feeling when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Lavender's shorter travel distance may appeal to those seeking a faster response time. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing or gaming 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 Zuoce Lavender has an MSRP of $2.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lavender for $1.99.
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 is known for its low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a mellow and balanced typing experience that is suitable for various settings. On the other hand, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch offers a clacky sound signature that is crisp and satisfying with each keystroke. The Cloudy Shadow's sound is more on the bass-heavy side, while the Lavender's sound is sharp and percussive, catering to different preferences depending on the user's taste in sound.
In terms of feel, the Cloudy Shadow linear switch offers a mild typing experience with a bouncy feel due to the extended springs, providing a comfortable and approachable typing feel for most users. On the other hand, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch is easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate, enhancing the typing experience by reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Both switches provide a smooth typing experience, but the Cloudy Shadow leans towards a more balanced feel, while the Lavender leans towards being more effortless and comfortable to type on.
Overall, both the Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switch and the Zuoce Lavender linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Cloudy Shadow provides a neutral sound signature and a mild typing experience with a bouncy feel, suitable for users looking for a balanced typing experience. On the other hand, the Lavender switch offers a clacky sound signature and an easy-to-press feel, catering to users who prefer a more crisp and effortless typing experience. Ultimately, both switches provide a pleasant typing experience, and depending on the user's preferences, they will get similar satisfying results in terms of overall performance.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between Aflion Cloudy Shadow linear switches and Zuoce Lavender linear switches, you should consider the differences in bottom-out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom-out force for a more substantial typing experience, along with a low-pitched and neutral sound signature, the Cloudy Shadow switches would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom-out force for effortless typing, along with a clacky sound profile and easy-to-press feel, the Lavender switches may be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style to ensure the best typing experience for you.
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