Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Aflion Foggy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Aflion Foggy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch, it's evident that each offers unique features catering to different preferences. The CAP Anniversary is praised for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes due to its novel CAP structure and aerodynamic stem design. On the other hand, the Aflion Foggy Shadow stands out for its light tactile bump and balanced performance with a medium weight bottom-out force. While the CAP Anniversary is described as 'Snappy', 'Creamy', and 'Polished', the Foggy Shadow is characterized as 'Low-pitched' and 'Neutral'. Both switches have their own advantages, so choosing between them depends on personal 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
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Aflion Foggy Shadow feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate. This type of plastic also allows for translucency, making it ideal for switches intended to showcase RGB lighting. Conversely, the nylon bottom housings of both switches offer a deeper and fuller sound profile, with nylon's softer composition absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound overall.
While the top housing materials of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Aflion Foggy Shadow are the same, their bottom housing materials differ, with the CAP Anniversary utilizing nylon and the Foggy Shadow also featuring a nylon bottom housing. This split in housing materials means that the qualities of each material will have a distinct impact on the sound and feel of the switch. When pressing down on either switch, the bottom housing's characteristics will be most noticeable in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing's qualities will come through when releasing a key.
In terms of aesthetics, both switches offer clear housing options, indicating the use of polycarbonate for their top housings. This not only provides a visually appealing translucent look but also ensures compatibility with RGB lighting setups. Despite the differences in their bottom housing materials, the overall sound profiles of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Aflion Foggy Shadow are likely to be quite similar due to the shared polycarbonate top housing characteristics.
Weight
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch which has an unknown actuation force. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making them both medium-heavy in terms of resistance. This means that while the CAP Anniversary may feel lighter to the touch initially, both switches will provide a similar amount of resistance when fully pressed. Some users may prefer the slightly lighter actuation force of the CAP Anniversary for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may prefer the more substantial typing experience provided by the slightly heavier bottom out force of the Foggy Shadow. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, making it more suitable for those who prefer a more traditional depth to their key presses. On the other hand, the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it favored by gamers looking for faster response times. Both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, but the CAP Anniversary provides a deeper key press compared to the Foggy Shadow. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron CAP Anniversary has an MSRP of $4.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CAP Anniversary for $4.10.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch is best described as having a potentially neutral sound profile due to the smoothness and aerodynamic design, which tends to minimize the noise produced during typing. On the other hand, the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch is known for a low-pitched sound profile, which typically offers a deeper and more mellow tone compared to other switches. The choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preference and the overall sound profile desired in a mechanical keyboard setup.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch is often characterized as snappy, creamy, and polished, showcasing super responsiveness, smooth and buttery typing experience, and a refined finish for sleek key travel. In contrast, information regarding the feel of the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch is not provided. However, given the light tactile bump and medium-weight bottom-out force, it's likely that the Aflion Foggy Shadow provides a balanced and satisfying tactile feedback for those who prefer a tactile typing experience.
Considering all the available information, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch emphasizes exceptionally smooth keystrokes with a stable and wobble-free typing experience, making it ideal for users seeking a refined and premium feel. On the other hand, the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch offers a light tactile bump and medium-weight actuation force, catering to those who prefer a balanced and satisfying tactile typing experience. Ultimately, both switches provide unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users can achieve a personalized typing experience based on their needs and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch or the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prioritize smooth keystrokes and stability, the CAP Anniversary with its unique CAP structure might be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light tactile bump and balanced performance, the Aflion Foggy Shadow could be more suitable. Additionally, consider the sound profile and feel of each switch to further narrow down your decision. Ultimately, both switches offer quality features and it's important to choose the one that aligns best with your preferences and typing experience.
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