Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro vs. Aflion Foggy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Aflion Foggy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering two popular mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Aflion Foggy Shadow, a clear distinction can be drawn between the two. The V3 Cream Blue Pro is celebrated for its budget-friendly yet high-quality construction, boasting a poppy and clacky sound profile with a smooth tactile sensation. This switch is ideal for those who enjoy a lively auditory feedback coupled with a creamy touch. On the other hand, the Aflion Foggy Shadow offers a lighter tactile bump with a medium weight bottom-out force, demonstrating Aflion's dedication to balanced performance. While the Cream Blue Pro is characterized by its accented, bouncy feel, the Foggy Shadow exudes a low-pitched, neutral aura. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preferences and typing style. 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.20 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
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Aflion Foggy Shadow, it is clear that they both feature polycarbonate top housings. Both switches utilize polycarbonate to create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making them ideal for users looking for a more distinct typing experience. The translucency of polycarbonate also allows for the use of RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the switches. However, the bottom housings differ, with the V3 Cream Blue Pro featuring a nylon bottom housing and the Foggy Shadow also opting for a nylon bottom housing. Nylon has the advantage of creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
Despite the differences in their bottom housing materials, both the V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Foggy Shadow offer similar typing experiences due to their shared polycarbonate top housings. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a clearer and resonant sound profile, which is complemented by the softer nylon bottom housing in both switches. While the bottom housing material may affect the bottom-out sound and feel, the top housing material plays a significant role in the sound when releasing a key. This combination of different housing materials in the two switches allows for a well-rounded typing experience with varying tones and textures.
Overall, the choice between the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Aflion Foggy Shadow may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. Both switches offer distinct typing experiences with their housing materials, catering to users who prefer either a sharper, crisper sound profile or a deeper, fuller sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing provides a consistent element between the two switches, while the bottom housing material adds unique characteristics to each. Ultimately, users can expect quality performance and a satisfying typing experience from either switch, with the differences in housing materials offering a nuanced approach to customizing sound and feel.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch is lighter in both actuation and bottom out force compared to the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch. The V3 Cream Blue Pro has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, while the Foggy Shadow has an actuation force of None grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams. The V3 Cream Blue Pro provides a medium-light typing experience, making it suitable for longer typing sessions and gaming. On the other hand, the Foggy Shadow offers a medium-heavy typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches have their own benefits depending on personal preference, with the V3 Cream Blue Pro catering to those who prefer a lighter touch, and the Foggy Shadow catering to those who prefer a heavier touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and needs.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Foggy Shadow has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Cream Blue Pro. The 0.2 mm may not seem like a significant difference, but it can affect the overall feel and experience when typing or gaming. If you prefer a more responsive feel with a shorter travel distance, the Cream Blue Pro might be the better option. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial depth when pressing down on the keys, the Foggy Shadow with its longer travel distance could be the preferred choice. Both switches offer a different tactile experience, so it ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro has an MSRP of $2.88 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Blue Pro for $2.00.
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 V3 Cream Blue Pro is known for its distinct poppy and clacky sound profile, offering a lively and audible feedback that is harmoniously paired with a creamy, tactile sensation. On the other hand, the Foggy Shadow is described as having a low-pitched sound profile, which typically features a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Both switches offer unique sound qualities that cater to different preferences, with the Cream Blue Pro providing a more pronounced and energetic sound while the Foggy Shadow delivers a more subtle and soothing auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the V3 Cream Blue Pro is highlighted for its accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished qualities. These switches offer a tactile sensation that is not overwhelming yet not scratchy, providing a prominent amount of tactility that is accompanied by a spring-like feedback and smooth key travel. In comparison, the feel of the Foggy Shadow switches is currently unknown. However, with a 63.5g bottom-out force, they likely offer a medium weight tactile bump that ensures a balanced typing experience.
Overall, the V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Foggy Shadow switches present different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Cream Blue Pro offers a lively and audible sound profile paired with a smooth and tactile sensation, making it a great choice for users who enjoy a more energetic typing experience. On the other hand, the Foggy Shadow switches likely provide a low-pitched sound and a medium weight tactile bump, appealing to those who prefer a more mellow and balanced typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro or the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for bottom out force and sound profile. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams and enjoy a poppy and clacky sound profile with a creamy, tactile sensation, then the V3 Cream Blue Pro would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams and a very light tactile bump, the Foggy Shadow switches would be a great option. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so consider your typing style and sound preferences when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on what feels best for you during your typing experience.
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