Aflion Foggy Shadow vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver
An in-depth look at the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver mechanical keyboard switches, there are distinct differences to consider. The Foggy Shadow, known for its light tactile bump and medium weight of 63.5g, offers a balanced performance that caters to those looking for a comfortable typing experience. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switches from Gateron are designed for gamers seeking lightning-fast responsiveness with their shorter travel distance of 3.4mm. While the Foggy Shadow is ideal for those who prefer a neutral and low-pitched feel, the G Pro 3.0 Silver provides a bassy, buttery, and creamy typing experience with a medium-high pitch. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches boils down to your specific preferences and needs; 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
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 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 double-stage spring
Spring
22mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver, both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, due to its stiffness which leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, its translucency makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. While both switches share this feature, the differences may lie in the design of the top housing, as it can impact the sound when a key is released. Overall, users of both switches can expect similar results in terms of sound quality and aesthetics.
On the other hand, the bottom housing material differs between the two switches, with the Foggy Shadow using a nylon bottom housing while the G Pro 3.0 Silver also utilizes nylon for the bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as its softer plastic absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This suggests that both switches will offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound quality and feel, with the nylon material impacting the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed.
Overall, while both the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver share similarities in their housing materials, such as polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing, the design and specific characteristics of each switch may result in slightly different sound profiles and typing experiences. Users can expect a sharp, high-pitched sound with clear resonance from the polycarbonate top housing, and a deeper, fuller sound with a duller quality from the nylon bottom housing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to individual preferences for sound and typing feel.
Weight
The Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch have contrasting actuation and bottom out forces. The Foggy Shadow has a higher bottom out force of 63.5 grams compared to the G Pro 3.0 Silver's 50 grams. The actuation force for the Foggy Shadow is unspecified, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver has an actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the G Pro 3.0 Silver is lighter to press down and actuate compared to the Foggy Shadow. The lighter actuation force of the G Pro 3.0 Silver makes it a suitable choice for those looking for a smoother typing experience, while the heavier bottom out force of the Foggy Shadow provides a more substantial tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for typing feel and force requirement.
Travel distance
The Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, slightly longer than the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch with a travel distance of 3.4 mm. While the difference in travel distance is minimal, it can still affect the feel and responsiveness of the switch. Gamers may prefer the Foggy Shadow for its slightly longer travel distance, providing a bit more depth to their keystrokes, while those looking for quicker response times may opt for the G Pro 3.0 Silver with its slightly shorter travel distance. Ultimately, both switches offer similar results with their close travel distances, catering to individual preferences for typing or gaming experiences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver has an MSRP of $3.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Silver for $3.27.
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 Aflion Foggy Shadow offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a mellow and moderate tone during key presses. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches deliver a bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound, offering a deeper and richer auditory experience with a satisfyingly deep "thud" or soft "knock." Both switches provide unique auditory elements that can enhance the overall typing or gaming experience, depending on personal preference and the setup they are used in.
Regarding feel, while specific information about the Aflion Foggy Shadow's tactile feel is unknown, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches are described as buttery and creamy, providing a smooth, fluid, and effortless keystroke experience. This translates to a seamless and uniform typing sensation, allowing for comfortable and enjoyable typing sessions without unnecessary key resistance. The tactile feel of the switches can significantly impact the overall typing experience, and the G Pro 3.0 Silver switches excel in this aspect by offering a silky and gliding sensation.
In conclusion, both the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Foggy Shadow provides a light tactile bump with a neutral and low-pitched sound, the G Pro 3.0 Silver offers a buttery and creamy feel with a bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound profile. Depending on personal preferences and intended usage, both switches can cater to different needs and provide a satisfying typing or gaming experience. It is essential to consider factors such as sound, feel, and other specifications when choosing between these switches to ensure the best fit for your individual requirements.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch, consider the factors that matter most to you. If you prioritize a light tactile bump and medium-heavy bottom-out force for a balanced typing or gaming experience, the Foggy Shadow is the way to go. On the other hand, if you value lightning-fast responsiveness, competitive gaming advantage, and budget-friendly yet high-quality switches, the G Pro 3.0 Silver is the ideal choice. Choose the Foggy Shadow for a medium-weight tactile experience, and opt for the G Pro 3.0 Silver for a smoother, buttery typing sensation with enhanced gaming performance. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for tactile feedback, bottom-out force, sound profile, and overall typing or gaming experience.
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