Dareu Dream vs. Aflion Foggy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Dareu Dream and the Aflion Foggy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Dream linear switch with the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch, there are several key differences to consider. The Dareu Dream switches are praised for their light linear feel, making them a popular choice for enthusiasts seeking both quality and affordability. On the other hand, the Aflion Foggy Shadow switches offer a light tactile bump with a medium weight, exemplifying Aflion's focus on balanced performance in their lineup. While the Dream switches are clacky and easy-to-press, the Foggy Shadow switches are low-pitched and neutral. These distinctions highlight the varying characteristics of each switch, catering to different preferences of mechanical keyboard users. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
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
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Dareu Dream and the Aflion Foggy Shadow utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound quality. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches. With both switches using polycarbonate for the top housing, users can expect similar sound characteristics and visual effects when utilizing RGB lighting.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Dareu Dream and the Aflion Foggy Shadow utilize nylon. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature and its ability to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound quality when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. Despite the differences in their top housings, the switches share a commonality in the use of nylon for their bottom housing, providing users with a consistent typing experience characterized by a deeper and fuller sound profile.
The distribution of housing materials in a switch plays a crucial role in determining the overall typing experience. With the qualities of the top and bottom housings split between the Dareu Dream and the Aflion Foggy Shadow, users can feel the impact of the bottom housing in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the sound profile when releasing a key is influenced more by the top housing material. By understanding the unique characteristics that each housing material brings to the switches, users can tailor their choice based on the desired sound profile and typing experience they seek.
Weight
The Dareu Dream linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch, whose actuation force is unknown. However, the bottom out force of the Foggy Shadow is heavier at 63.5 grams, while the bottom out force of the Dream is not specified. Those looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the Dream switch due to its lower actuation force, while those seeking a more substantial feel may lean towards the Foggy Shadow with its heavier bottom out force. Both switches offer different typing experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, providing options for users depending on their preferences.
Travel distance
The Dareu Dream linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Dareu Dream has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Aflion Foggy Shadow. The Dream's 4mm travel distance offers a bit more key depth for those who prefer a heftier feel when typing, while the Foggy Shadow's 3.5mm travel distance provides a slightly quicker response time, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for fast and precise keystrokes. Both switches offer the user a unique typing experience, with the Dream providing a more substantial key press and the Foggy Shadow offering a slightly quicker response. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Dream has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Dream for $3.76.
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
The Dareu Dream linear switch is known for its clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy noise when pressed. On the other hand, the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound, which is more mellow and suitable for various usage scenarios. When it comes to feel, the Dream switch is easy-to-press and mild, offering a gentle typing experience with minimal force required to activate. As for the Foggy Shadow, information on its tactile feel is unknown. Overall, both switches provide a light actuation force, making them suitable for users seeking a comfortable typing experience without excessive fatigue. Ultimately, the Dareu Dream and Aflion Foggy Shadow switches offer similar qualities in terms of force, making them a solid choice for those looking for a balanced and affordable option in the mechanical keyboard switch market.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch, consider your typing preferences and needs. If you prioritize a light linear switch with an affordable price point, the Dream may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom-out force for a balanced performance, the Foggy Shadow could be the ideal fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize the lightness and affordability of the Dream or the balanced performance of the Foggy Shadow. Experiment with both switches to determine which one enhances your typing experience the most.
Mentioned in this article
