Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Aflion Foggy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Aflion Foggy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Aflion Foggy Shadow mechanical keyboard switches, two distinct options emerge for different preferences. The V3 Crystal Pro is a linear switch made with fully polycarbonate construction, providing a bright and chirpy sound signature along with a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Foggy Shadow is a tactile switch with a very light tactile bump and a 63.5g bottom-out force, offering a balanced performance. While the Crystal Pro switch is known for its bouncy and polished feel, the Foggy Shadow switch is praised for its low-pitched and neutral characteristics. Both switches have their own unique features that cater to different typing 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
48g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Polycarbonate
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Aflion Foggy Shadow both feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances resonance and clarity in sound. The translucent nature of polycarbonate is also ideal for switches with RGB lighting, as it allows for light to shine through. However, while both switches share this similarity in their top housing material, the Aflion Foggy Shadow stands out with its nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer composition that absorbs more sound.
In terms of sound experience, the differences between the two switches become more apparent based on their bottom housing materials. The Akko V3 Crystal Pro's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the sharp and clear sound profile associated with the material, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. On the other hand, the Aflion Foggy Shadow's nylon bottom housing contributes to a duller and rounder sound, offering a different typing experience. This distinction in bottom housing materials highlights how different plastics can influence the overall sound and tactile feedback of a switch. While the top housing may provide a similar sharpness and clarity in sound, the bottom housing plays a significant role in shaping the overall typing experience.
Overall, the choice between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Aflion Foggy Shadow comes down to personal preference in sound and typing feel. Both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing to achieve a sharp and resonant sound profile, but the Aflion Foggy Shadow introduces a contrasting nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound experience. Whether you prefer the crispness of polycarbonate or the roundness of nylon, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboards. Ultimately, the housing materials of these switches contribute to the overall typing experience and sound profile, making them both viable options for keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch, the actuation force of the V3 Crystal Pro is lighter at 48 grams, while the Foggy Shadow's actuation force is unknown. However, the V3 Crystal Pro has a bottom out force of 60 grams, with the Foggy Shadow having a slightly heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range in terms of weight. For individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience, the V3 Crystal Pro may be the better option, as it allows for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, the Foggy Shadow would be more suitable for those who prefer a heavier push feel for a more robust typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference based on typing style and comfort level.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular, especially among gamers for their faster response times. However, the V3 Crystal Pro offers a slightly deeper travel distance compared to the Foggy Shadow. If you prefer a more responsive feel, the Foggy Shadow may be the better option, while the V3 Crystal Pro may be more suitable if you prefer a bit more depth to the key press. Ultimately, both switches provide a smooth and satisfying typing experience, but the slight difference in travel distance may make one feel a bit quicker than the other.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Crystal Pro for $3.30.
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 Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch offers a chirpy and bright sound signature, standing out from the rest with its unique acoustic profile. On the other hand, the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch provides a low-pitched and mellow tone, emphasizing a more bass-heavy sound. Depending on personal preference, the V3 Crystal Pro may be more suitable for those seeking a distinctive sound, while the Foggy Shadow may appeal to users looking for a more neutral and balanced sound profile.
In terms of feel, the V3 Crystal Pro offers a bouncy and polished typing experience, with keys that provide a spring-like feedback and a smooth finish for a sleek typing experience. This bouncy and polished feel can enhance the overall typing rhythm and comfort for users. Unfortunately, information on the specific feel of the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch is not available, making it difficult to directly compare the two switches in this aspect.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the V3 Crystal Pro emphasizes a chirpy sound and bouncy feel, the Foggy Shadow focuses on a low-pitched sound and may provide a different tactile experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience that each user is looking for. By considering the sound and feel descriptions provided, newcomers can make an informed decision on which switch aligns best with their preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switches or the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switches, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a medium bottom-out force with a bright and chirpy sound signature, along with a silky smooth typing experience, the V3 Crystal Pro may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom-out force with a light tactile bump and a low-pitched, neutral sound profile, the Foggy Shadow switches could be more to your liking. Consider your typing preferences and needs when deciding between these two excellent switch options. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose based on what feels best for you.
Mentioned in this article
