Aflion Panda vs. Aflion Foggy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the Aflion Foggy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Panda and the Aflion Foggy Shadow mechanical keyboard switches, we see distinct differences in their characteristics. The Panda is celebrated for its hyper-tactile sensation and deep "thocky" sound profile, appealing to those who value a strong tactile force and resonant audio feedback. On the other hand, the Foggy Shadow boasts a lighter tactile bump and a medium weight bottom-out force, showcasing Aflion's dedication to balanced performance. While the Panda is described as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Resonant', the Foggy Shadow is characterized as 'Low-pitched' and 'Neutral'. 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
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single-stage 15mm long spring
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Aflion Panda and the Aflion Foggy Shadow are quite similar, as both feature a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. This material is especially useful in switches that plan to use RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for the light to shine through beautifully. The top housing of both switches will play a significant role in the sound profile when keys are released, providing a clear and resonant tone.
However, where the Panda and the Foggy Shadow differ is in their bottom housing material. The Panda features a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is softer than polycarbonate and absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Foggy Shadow also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile. The bottom housing plays a more significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, giving each keystroke a unique tactile response.
In summary, while both the Aflion Panda and the Aflion Foggy Shadow share a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharp and clear sound profile, they differ in their bottom housing material. The nylon bottom housing in both switches produces a deeper and fuller sound that is absorbed for a more muted tone. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing experience based on the housing materials utilized in each.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Panda tactile switch to the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The Panda has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams, while the Foggy Shadow's actuation force is unknown. In terms of bottom out force, the Panda requires 60 grams to fully press down, whereas the Foggy Shadow needs 63.5 grams. While the Panda offers a more moderate typing experience with its medium actuation and bottom out forces, the Foggy Shadow provides a slightly heavier feel with its medium-heavy bottom out force. Depending on personal preference, some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Panda for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may favor the heavier bottom out force of the Foggy Shadow for a more substantial typing experience. Overall, the choice between the two switches ultimately comes down to individual typing preferences.
Travel distance
The Aflion Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 4mm, while the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5mm. The Panda offers a slightly longer keypress, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial depth when typing. On the other hand, the Foggy Shadow provides a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers seeking fast key presses. Both switches offer different tactile experiences, with the Panda giving a bit more resistance and the Foggy Shadow feeling slightly lighter. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for keypress depth and response time.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Aflion Panda has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Panda for $3.56.
The Aflion Foggy 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 Foggy Shadow for $3.91.
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 Panda switch offers a resonant and deep "thocky" sound profile, creating an immersive auditory experience with its high-pitched and sharp tones. On the other hand, the Aflion Foggy Shadow switch provides a low-pitched and mellow sound, giving it a more bass-heavy and neutral tone suitable for various environments and preferences. Both switches offer unique audio feedback that can be further enhanced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
Moving on to feel, the Aflion Panda switch is known for its accented and invigorating tactile feedback, striking a balance between medium tactility and a responsive typing experience. Conversely, there is limited information available on the feel of the Aflion Foggy Shadow switch. However, based on the description of a light tactile bump and medium weight, it likely offers a more subtle tactile feedback compared to the Panda switch.
In conclusion, the Aflion Panda tactile switch stands out for its hyper-tactile sensation and deep thocky sound profile, providing an unparalleled typing experience for those who appreciate pronounced feedback. On the other hand, the Aflion Foggy Shadow switch offers a lighter tactile bump and medium weight, appealing to users looking for a more subtle tactile experience. While both switches have their unique qualities, users can expect similar levels of performance and customization options to tailor their typing experience to their preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch, you should consider your preference for bottom-out force, tactile bump intensity, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium bottom-out force and a hyper-tactile sensation with a deep, thocky sound profile, the Aflion Panda switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom-out force and a light tactile bump with a mellow, low-pitched sound profile, the Aflion Foggy Shadow switch would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences, so it's essential to consider what factors are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch before making your decision.
Mentioned in this article
