KTT Cream Yellow vs. Aflion Foggy Shadow
An in-depth look at the KTT Cream Yellow and the Aflion Foggy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Cream Yellow and the Aflion Foggy Shadow mechanical keyboard switches, it's clear that they each offer unique features catered to different preferences. The Cream Yellow is designed to provide a distinctively clacky sound with its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem, offering a bouncy typing feel. On the other hand, the Foggy Shadow by Aflion is praised for its light tactile bump and medium weight, showcasing a balanced performance. While the Cream Yellow is categorized as 'Bouncy' and 'Clacky', the Foggy Shadow falls under 'Low-pitched' and 'Neutral'. Each switch has its own strengths, making it a matter of personal preference when deciding which one to choose. 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
58g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.90 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
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Cream Yellow to the Aflion Foggy Shadow, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended to showcase RGB lighting. While both switches share this common feature, the difference in their bottom housing material sets them apart.
The Cream Yellow features a nylon bottom housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that adds a unique dimension to typing on these switches. Conversely, the Foggy Shadow also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, offering a similar deep and full sound experience. This shared characteristic ensures that both switches maintain a consistent typing feel despite their differences in top housing material.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the KTT Cream Yellow and Aflion Foggy Shadow plays a crucial role in shaping the sound profile and typing experience of each switch. While they both use polycarbonate for the top housing, the variation in bottom housing material allows for distinct differences in sound and feel. Whether preferring the sharper sound of polycarbonate or the fuller sound of nylon, users can select a switch that suits their preferences based on these housing material distinctions.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch, it is clear that the Cream Yellow is lighter in both aspects. The Cream Yellow has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, which makes it a more medium weight option. In contrast, the Foggy Shadow has an unknown actuation force but a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Cream Yellow due to its lower actuation and bottom out forces, while those looking for a more substantial typing feel may find the Foggy Shadow to be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing force and feedback.
Travel distance
The KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch both have a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on the keys for both switches, users will experience a similar distance traveled from the top to the bottom. While both switches offer the same travel distance, they provide different typing experiences due to their distinct switch types - linear for the Cream Yellow and tactile for the Foggy Shadow. However, in terms of travel distance, both switches offer the same level of keypress feedback and actuation point, making them suitable choices for those looking for consistency in typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Cream Yellow has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cream Yellow 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
As an expert in mechanical keyboard switches, comparing the Cream Yellow linear switch to the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch reveals distinct differences in both sound and feel. The Cream Yellow switch is known for its clacky sound, providing a sharp and percussive noise when pressed. In contrast, the Foggy Shadow switch offers a low-pitched and mellow tone, creating a more bass-heavy sound profile. When it comes to feel, the Cream Yellow switch is characterized by a bouncy sensation, offering a spring-like feedback and lively keystrokes. Unfortunately, the specific tactile feel of the Foggy Shadow switch is unknown. Overall, while the Cream Yellow switch delivers a unique clacky sound and bouncy typing experience, the Aflion Foggy Shadow switch offers a more neutral sound profile and tactile feedback. Depending on personal preference, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, with the Cream Yellow for those seeking a distinctive sound and bouncy feel, and the Foggy Shadow for a balanced performance with a light tactile bump.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a distinctively clacky sound with a bouncy typing feel, then the Cream Yellow switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you appreciate a light tactile bump and a medium weight switch with a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, then the Aflion Foggy Shadow switch would suit your preferences better. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the specific typing experience you are looking for, whether it be a lively and resonant feedback with Cream Yellow or a balanced performance with Foggy Shadow. Choose the switch that aligns with your preferences and typing style for the best overall experience.
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