HMX Blue Topaz vs. Aflion Foggy Shadow
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Aflion Foggy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that come to mind are the HMX Blue Topaz and the Aflion Foggy Shadow. The Blue Topaz stands out as a linear switch, known for its incredibly smooth actuation and lightweight feel, making typing a breeze. With its eye-catching glitter housing and clacky sound signature, it offers a sensory experience like no other. On the other hand, the Aflion Foggy Shadow is a tactile switch that features a light tactile bump and a medium weight of 63.5g bottom-out force. This switch prides itself on its balanced performance and neutral, low-pitched sound profile. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
40g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
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
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and the Aflion Foggy Shadow have some similarities when it comes to their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that enhances the sound clarity and resonance. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches that plan to use RGB lighting, making it a popular choice for top housings in mechanical switches.
However, the key difference between the two switches lies in their nylon bottom housing. The Blue Topaz features a nylon bottom housing that creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Foggy Shadow also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, offering a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. This material choice impacts the overall sound and feel of the switches, with the bottom housing playing a crucial role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key.
In conclusion, while both the HMX Blue Topaz and the Aflion Foggy Shadow share similarities in their polycarbonate top housing, their differences in nylon bottom housing contribute to unique typing experiences. The use of softer nylon in the bottom housing enhances the sound profile by creating a deeper and fuller tone, setting them apart from switches that use harder plastics. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound and feel, with the housing materials playing a significant role in the overall typing experience.
Weight
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the Blue Topaz is also lighter at 48 grams, while the Foggy Shadow's bottom out force is heavier at 63.5 grams. This means that the Blue Topaz provides a lighter typing experience overall, ideal for those who prefer a more effortless keystroke. In contrast, the Foggy Shadow offers a slightly heavier touch, giving users a more substantial and tactile typing feedback. Both switches offer unique typing experiences due to their differences in actuation and bottom out forces. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between a lighter touch with the Blue Topaz or a heavier touch with the Foggy Shadow for a customized typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch is 3.9 mm, while the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Blue Topaz has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Foggy Shadow. For those looking for a switch with a bit more depth and a longer keypress, the Blue Topaz may be the preferred option. On the other hand, the Foggy Shadow offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which may be preferred by those looking for a faster response time, such as gamers. Both switches fall within the range of modern travel distances, so users can expect similar results in terms of overall feel and performance despite the minor difference in length. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Blue Topaz has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Blue Topaz for $3.49.
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 Blue Topaz linear switch offers a clacky and sharp sound that is both distinctive and satisfying. On the other hand, the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch provides a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, which may appeal to those looking for a quieter typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference and the overall typing environment you prefer.
In terms of feel, the Blue Topaz switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, providing a smooth and light typing experience that reduces finger fatigue and enhances overall comfort during extended use. Unfortunately, specific information about the feel of the Aflion Foggy Shadow switch is not available. However, based on the provided 63.5g bottom-out force and medium weight description, it can be assumed that the tactile bump and overall feel of the Foggy Shadow switch may offer a more balanced and responsive typing experience compared to the Blue Topaz.
In conclusion, both the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Blue Topaz provides a clacky sound and easy-to-press feel that may appeal to users looking for a lightweight and smooth typing experience, the Aflion Foggy Shadow switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound with a medium weight tactile bump that may suit those seeking a balanced and responsive typing feel. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your personal preferences in sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a super smooth actuation and a lightweight feel, making typing effortless and enjoyable, then the Blue Topaz linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light tactile bump and balanced medium weight for a satisfying typing experience, then the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for the sound, feel, and overall typing experience that aligns best with your personal needs and preferences.
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