Dareu Aqua vs. Aflion Foggy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the Aflion Foggy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch offer unique qualities to suit different preferences. The Dareu Aqua stands out for its super light 37g actuation force, providing a chirpy and clacky sound signature that appeals to those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Aflion Foggy Shadow offers a light tactile bump with a 63.5g bottom-out force, striking a balance between weight and tactile feedback. While the Aqua is characterized by its chirpy and clacky feel, the Foggy Shadow is described as low-pitched and neutral. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on your preference for actuation force, sound, 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
37g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Partial box
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Dareu Aqua and the Aflion Foggy Shadow utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which contributes to a more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to be more effectively utilized, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the switch. The identical choice of polycarbonate for the top housing in both keyboards ensures that users will experience similar sound profiles and lighting effects.
On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Dareu Aqua and the Aflion Foggy Shadow provides a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is known for its softer properties, which allow it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. Despite the differences in their top housings, the similar choice of nylon for the bottom housing in both keyboards guarantees a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
The distinct materials used in the top and bottom housings of the Dareu Aqua and the Aflion Foggy Shadow divide the qualities each material brings to the overall typing experience. The bottom housing, whether nylon in the Aqua or Foggy Shadow, influences the bottom-out sound and feel when keys are pressed, offering a deeper and fuller sound profile. Conversely, the top housing, constructed of polycarbonate in both keyboards, has a greater impact on the sound when keys are released. This split design ensures that users can appreciate the unique qualities of each material throughout their typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Aqua linear switch to the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch, it is evident that they have different characteristics in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Aqua has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, while the Foggy Shadow's actuation force is not specified. On the other hand, the Foggy Shadow has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, whereas the bottom out force of the Aqua is not provided. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Aqua switch due to its lower actuation force. In contrast, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Foggy Shadow switch with its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing style and desired force feedback.
Travel distance
The Dareu Aqua linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Aqua has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Foggy Shadow. The Aqua with its 4 mm travel distance provides a more traditional feel, while the Foggy Shadow with its 3.5 mm travel distance offers a shallower typing experience. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Foggy Shadow, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may opt for the Aqua. Both switches offer unique typing experiences, so the choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preference.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Aqua has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aqua for $3.76.
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
The Dareu Aqua linear switch is known for its chirpy and clacky sound signature, producing a distinctively sharp and percussive noise when pressed. On the other hand, the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a more mellow and moderate tone suitable for various environments. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Aqua is praised for its easy-to-press and feathery touch, requiring minimal force to activate and offering a light and comfortable typing experience that reduces finger fatigue. Unfortunately, information on the tactile feel of the Foggy Shadow switch is unavailable. However, based on its 63.5g bottom-out force, it can be inferred that the tactile bump is light and balanced, providing a satisfying typing experience without unnecessary strain on the fingers.
In conclusion, while the Dareu Aqua linear switch excels in delivering a chirpy and clacky sound with an effortless and feathery feel, the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch offers a more subdued low-pitched and neutral sound and a tactile experience that prioritizes balance and medium weight. Both switches cater to different preferences, but if a user enjoys a lighter touch and sharp sound, opting for the Aqua would provide a similar experience, while the Foggy Shadow offers a more versatile and balanced option for those seeking a tactile typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch, you should choose the Aqua if you prefer a super light actuation force of 37g, producing a chirpy and clacky sound signature that sets it apart from other switches. The Aqua is ideal for those who favor a lighter touch and value a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Foggy Shadow is the perfect choice for individuals who prefer a tactile bump with a medium-heavy bottom out force of 63.5g. The Foggy Shadow offers a balanced performance with a light tactile bump, making it suitable for various typing needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a light touch and unique sound (Aqua) or a tactile bump with medium weight (Foggy Shadow) in your keyboard switches.
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