Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. Aflion Foggy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Aflion Foggy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro, a linear switch, to the Aflion Foggy Shadow, a tactile switch, it becomes clear that each switch offers unique benefits catering to different preferences. The Akko Cream Black Pro V3 switches are a top choice for those looking for a budget-friendly option with high quality. Known for their poppy and clacky sound, these linear switches are exceptionally smooth, providing a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switches stand out for their light tactile bump and medium weight, offering a balanced performance for those seeking a versatile switch. 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
55g
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
3.30 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
20mm
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Aflion Foggy Shadow feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, leading to a more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housings of both switches elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is softer than polycarbonate, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound overall.
While both switches share similar top and bottom housing materials, the V3 Cream Black Pro and the Foggy Shadow may still have differences in sound profile and feel due to the distribution of these materials. The impact of the bottom housing will be more noticeable when pressing down on a key, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will have a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key. Overall, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in different parts of the switches will result in a unique typing experience for each model, despite sharing similar housing materials.
In conclusion, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches creates a clear and resonant sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound. The distribution of these materials throughout the switches allows for a distinct typing experience depending on whether you are pressing down on a key or releasing it. Despite their differences, the V3 Cream Black Pro and the Foggy Shadow both offer a high-quality construction that enhances the overall sound and feel of typing on these mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch, it is clear that there are significant differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The V3 Cream Black Pro has a higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Foggy Shadow which has an unknown actuation force. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the V3 Cream Black Pro requiring 65 grams and the Foggy Shadow requiring 63.5 grams. This means that while the V3 Cream Black Pro is heavier in terms of actuation force, both switches provide a medium-heavy typing experience when bottoming out. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3mm, while the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5mm. In this case, the Foggy Shadow has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the V3 Cream Black Pro. The difference may not be significant, but it can affect the typing experience based on individual preferences. For those who prefer a slightly deeper key press, the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch might be the better choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly shallower and faster key press, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer a decent travel distance that can provide a satisfying typing experience, albeit with subtle differences in feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro has an MSRP of $3.77 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Black Pro for $2.70.
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 comparing the subjective qualities of the sound between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch, it is evident that they offer distinct auditory experiences. The Cream Black Pro produces a high-pitched and poppy sound that is sharp and crisp when pressed, catering to those who prefer a more vibrant sound profile. On the other hand, the Foggy Shadow emits a low-pitched and mellow tone with a neutral actuation force requirement, appealing to individuals seeking a more subdued and balanced sound while typing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the overall setup of the keyboard.
In terms of feel, the Cream Black Pro linear switch is characterized by its creamy and bouncy properties, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with a spring-like feedback sensation. The switch is also described as snappy and polished, providing a refined and responsive typing feel that enhances the overall user experience. Comparatively, information on the feel of the Foggy Shadow tactile switch is not available. However, based on the characteristics of the Cream Black Pro, users can expect a tactile and responsive typing experience from the Foggy Shadow, with a focus on providing a comfortable and satisfying feel with each keystroke.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch present unique subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Cream Black Pro stands out for its high-pitched and creamy sound, coupled with a bouncy and polished typing feel, the Foggy Shadow offers a low-pitched and neutral sound with a tactile and responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound profile and typing feel, ensuring that users can customize their mechanical keyboard to align with their specific preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a budget-friendly option with a unique poppy sound and smooth feel, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch would be the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a more balanced performance with a light tactile bump and medium weight bottom-out force, the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch is a great choice. Consider your sound and feel preferences when deciding between these two switches to ensure you have the best typing experience tailored to your needs. Ultimately, both switches offer their own distinct qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose based on what suits your typing style the best.
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