KTT Ash Gray vs. Aflion Foggy Shadow
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the Aflion Foggy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Ash Gray and the Aflion Foggy Shadow are both tactile mechanical keyboard switches, each offering unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Ash Gray switch is designed to provide a tactile response that strikes a perfect balance between being noticeable yet not too overwhelming, creating a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Foggy Shadow switch by Aflion boasts a very light tactile bump and a medium weight that aims to deliver a balanced performance. While the Ash Gray is categorized as 'Easy-to-press' and 'Mild', the Foggy Shadow is labeled as 'Low-pitched' and 'Neutral'. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal, making them suitable choices for various typing styles and preferences. 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
38g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
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
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
18mm spring
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The KTT Ash Gray and Aflion Foggy Shadow both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, polycarbonate is ideal for RGB lighting due to its translucency. However, the Ash Gray and Foggy Shadow differ in their bottom housing material. The Ash Gray utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Foggy Shadow's polycarbonate bottom housing.
Despite both switches featuring a nylon bottom housing, the KTT Ash Gray and Aflion Foggy Shadow differ in their top housing material. While both switches have a polycarbonate top housing, the Ash Gray and Foggy Shadow offer different sound profiles due to the unique properties of their housing materials. The Ash Gray's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the crisp and clear sound produced by the Foggy Shadow's polycarbonate top housing. These differences in housing materials contribute to the overall typing experience and sound of each switch.
When comparing the KTT Ash Gray and Aflion Foggy Shadow, it is important to consider how the combination of housing materials affects the typing experience. The split between the bottom and top housings allows for a unique feel and sound profile for each switch. The bottom housing of the Ash Gray, being nylon, has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound. In contrast, the Foggy Shadow's polycarbonate bottom housing, combined with its polycarbonate top housing, offers a sharper and crisper sound profile when pressing down on the keys. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference for sound and feel.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch, we can see that the Ash Gray is lighter in both aspects. The Ash Gray has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a medium-light switch. On the other hand, the Foggy Shadow has a higher bottom out force of 63.5 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category. The actuation force of the Foggy Shadow is unknown, but it is clear that it requires more force to bottom out compared to the Ash Gray. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer typing sessions, the Ash Gray would be the better choice. However, if you prefer a more substantial typing feel with a stronger push, the Foggy Shadow would be the way to go. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing habits.
Travel distance
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch both have a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making them equal in that aspect. This means that users will experience a consistent key press feel in terms of travel distance when using either of these switches. The identical travel distance of both switches allows for a similar typing experience, with no significant differences in key press depth. This similarity in travel distance between the two switches ensures that users can expect a consistent tactile feedback regardless of which switch they choose to use for their keyboard.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Ash Gray has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ash Gray for $2.55.
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 Ash Gray and the Foggy Shadow switches offer different profiles. The Ash Gray switch provides a neutral sound, suitable for various settings and users, with a moderate actuation force requirement. On the other hand, the Foggy Shadow switch is characterized by a low-pitched sound, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Depending on your preference and environment, you may find one more appealing than the other.
In terms of feel, the Ash Gray switch is known for being easy-to-press, requiring minimal force to activate and offering a comfortable typing experience with reduced finger fatigue. It also provides a mild tactile feedback, making it approachable for most users. Unfortunately, information on the feel of the Foggy Shadow switch is not available. However, given that it has a light tactile bump and a medium weight of 63.5g, it is likely to provide a balanced and responsive typing experience.
Overall, both the KTT Ash Gray and the Aflion Foggy Shadow switches have their own unique characteristics when it comes to sound and feel. The Ash Gray switch offers a tactile response that is light yet substantial, with a crisp actuation and delightful tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Foggy Shadow switch presents a light tactile bump and medium weight, emphasizing balanced performance. Depending on your preferences for sound profile and tactile feel, you can choose between these two switches to enhance your typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch, consider the bottom out force and the tactile feedback you prefer. If you prefer a lighter touch with a crisp actuation, the Ash Gray with its 53 grams bottom out force would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and a very light tactile bump, the Foggy Shadow with its 63.5 grams bottom out force would be more suitable for you. Additionally, consider the sound profile you prefer, as the Ash Gray offers a neutral sound while the Foggy Shadow provides a low-pitched sound. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns best with your typing preferences and needs for a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
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