Aflion Foggy Shadow vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow
An in-depth look at the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow stand out for their unique characteristics. The Foggy Shadow from Aflion is a tactile switch that offers a light tactile bump, making it ideal for those who prefer a subtle feedback while typing. With a 63.5g bottom-out force, it strikes a balance between being too heavy or too light, showcasing Aflion's dedication to providing a well-rounded performance. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow from Gateron is a linear switch known for its budget-friendly excellence. It produces a higher pitched clacky sound profile and offers a bouncy typing feel, making it a popular choice among users. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches boils down to personal preference and specific 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
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
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
15.4mm long spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness, providing a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency makes it ideal for switches that use RGB lighting. As a result, users can expect a similar sound experience from both switches as a result of their shared material.
However, when examining the bottom housing material, the Foggy Shadow features a nylon bottom housing while the G Pro 3.0 Yellow also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound and creates a rounder sound profile. This unique quality of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches contributes to a distinct typing experience for users, adding depth to the overall sound profile of each switch.
When considering the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall sound and feel of the switches, it becomes apparent that the qualities of each material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. While the bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, the top housing has more influence on the sound when a key is released. This division of qualities between the two components of the switch allows for a dynamic typing experience that combines the unique characteristics of both housing materials in the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch, there is a noticeable difference in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Aflion Foggy Shadow has an unspecified actuation force, but a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, also falling in the medium-heavy category. In terms of weight, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is lighter in actuation force compared to the Foggy Shadow, but heavier in bottom out force. This means that users who prefer a lighter actuation force may lean towards the G Pro 3.0 Yellow, while those looking for a heavier bottom out force may prefer the Foggy Shadow. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing style.
Travel distance
The Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Foggy Shadow. The difference may seem small, but it can have an impact on the typing or gaming experience. Those who prefer a shorter travel distance for faster response times may lean towards the Foggy Shadow, while individuals who enjoy a deeper key press may opt for the G Pro 3.0 Yellow. Both switches offer a unique feel and response, so choosing between the two ultimately depends on personal preference.
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 Yellow has an MSRP of $3.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Yellow for $2.78.
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 bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow emits a higher-pitched and resonant sound, creating a sharp and crisp auditory experience that may be preference for those who enjoy a more vibrant typing sound.
When it comes to feel, there is no specific information available for the Foggy Shadow switch. However, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch is described as having a polished and creamy feel, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and seamless key travel. This could indicate that the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch provides a comfortable and effortless typing feel for users.
In conclusion, based on the information provided, the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch offer distinct sound profiles and potentially different typing experiences. Choosing between the two would depend on individual preferences for sound and feel. If a user enjoys a low-pitched and neutral sound with a light tactile bump, the Foggy Shadow may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, if a user prefers a higher-pitched and resonant sound with a polished and creamy typing feel for a linear switch, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow would be the suitable option. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences, ensuring that users can find a switch that aligns with their specific typing preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch or the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a lighter tactile bump and a low-pitched sound profile, the Foggy Shadow may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a smoother key travel and a higher-pitched, resonant sound profile, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow could be the ideal switch for your typing needs. Both switches offer medium-heavy bottom out force, so it is important to consider how that weight will feel during extended typing sessions. Ultimately, try to test out both switches if possible to determine which one aligns best with your typing preferences.
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