Aflion Foggy Shadow vs. KTT Glimp
An in-depth look at the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the KTT Glimp switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Aflion Foggy Shadow, a tactile switch, and the KTT Glimp, a linear switch, are both excellent options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts looking for a unique typing experience. The Foggy Shadow from Aflion boasts a light tactile bump and a 63.5g bottom-out force, providing a balanced performance that is sure to impress users. On the other hand, the Glimp switch from KTT offers a medium-light feel with tactile feedback and a comfortable actuation force, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a satisfying typing experience. While the Foggy Shadow is categorized as 'Low-pitched' and 'Neutral', the Glimp switch is characterized by its 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'Mild', and 'Neutral' traits. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
18mm spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Foggy Shadow and KTT Glimp both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate plastic, which enhances clarity and resonance. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is perfect for switches designed for RGB lighting. The similarities in their top housing material suggest that users can expect similar sound profiles and aesthetics from both switches.
On the other hand, the Foggy Shadow utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Glimp also features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile as a result of its softer nature that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This creates a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon housings. Both switches' use of nylon in their bottom housing suggests that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel when pressing down on the keys.
Overall, while the top housing material of the Aflion Foggy Shadow and KTT Glimp is the same, their differing bottom housing materials may result in slight variations in sound and feel. The split qualities between the top and bottom housings mean that the bottom housing will have a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. Despite these minor differences, users can generally expect similar levels of clarity, resonance, and typing experience from both switches due to their shared polycarbonate top housings.
Weight
The Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which is medium-heavy, while the KTT Glimp linear switch has a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it medium-light. The actuation force for the Foggy Shadow is unknown, whereas the Glimp has an actuation force of 43 grams. In terms of weight, the Glimp is lighter than the Foggy Shadow. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Glimp for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may favor the heavier bottom out force of the Foggy Shadow for a more substantial typing experience. Overall, each switch offers a different typing feel based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences for typing and gaming experiences.
Travel distance
The Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5mm, while the KTT Glimp linear switch has a travel distance of 4mm. In this case, the Glimp linear switch has a longer travel distance compared to the Foggy Shadow tactile switch. The shorter travel distance of the Foggy Shadow may appeal to those looking for faster response times, such as gamers, while the longer travel distance of the Glimp may provide a more satisfying and hearty typing experience for some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding the travel distance and the desired feel when typing or gaming.
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 KTT Glimp has an MSRP of $3.84 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Glimp for $3.45.
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 more bass-heavy and mellow tone while remaining suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the KTT Glimp switch produces a clacky and neutral sound, with a sharp and snappy tone that adds a crisp and bright element to typing sessions. Both switches offer versatility in sound, with the Glimp switch leaning towards a more percussive sound experience compared to the Foggy Shadow's mellow tone.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Foggy Shadow has no specific descriptors provided, leaving it open to interpretation based on individual user experience. In contrast, the KTT Glimp switch is described as creamy and mild, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with a gentle feel that appeals to a wide range of users. The creamy sensation of the Glimp switch provides a silky smooth typing experience that effortlessly melts into each keystroke, while the mild characteristics ensure a comfortable and approachable typing feel for all users.
Overall, both the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the KTT Glimp switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Foggy Shadow boasts a low-pitched sound profile and a light tactile bump, the Glimp switch stands out with its clacky sound and creamy typing feel. Choosing between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference, with the Foggy Shadow catering to users looking for a balanced tactile experience and mellow sound, while the Glimp switch appeals to those seeking a more substantial tactile feedback and a creamy typing sensation.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the KTT Glimp linear switch, consider the following guidelines. Opt for the Foggy Shadow if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom-out force of 63.5 grams and a light tactile bump, as well as a low-pitched and neutral sound profile. This switch is ideal for those who prioritize balanced performance and a mellow typing experience. On the other hand, select the Glimp if you prefer a medium-light bottom-out force of 53 grams, a satisfying linear feel with tactile feedback, and a clacky sound profile. This switch is perfect for those seeking a substantial typing experience with a crisp and bright sound. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your preferences for actuation force, tactile feedback, sound profile, and typing feel.
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