Aflion Foggy Shadow vs. KTT Hyacinth
An in-depth look at the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the KTT Hyacinth switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Aflion Foggy Shadow and KTT Hyacinth mechanical keyboard switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Foggy Shadow by Aflion is a tactile switch known for its light tactile bump and medium weight of 63.5g bottom-out force, providing a balanced performance. On the other hand, the Hyacinth by KTT stands out for its 3.5mm travel distance, aiming to prevent a harsh bottoming-out experience and focusing on tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort with a single-stage elongated spring. While the Foggy Shadow is best for those looking for a light tactile bump, the Hyacinth is ideal for users seeking a smoother and more consistent force curve. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision on which switch suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
56g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
22mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the KTT Hyacinth, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the incorporation of RGB lighting, making it a popular choice among keyboard enthusiasts. The similarity in top housing material ensures that users can expect comparable sound characteristics when typing on either switch.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Aflion Foggy Shadow features a nylon bottom housing while the KTT Hyacinth also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. Therefore, typing on switches that use nylon for their bottom housing will likely result in a duller and rounder sound, providing a different typing experience compared to switches with polycarbonate bottom housings.
The distinction in bottom housing material between the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the KTT Hyacinth will impact the overall typing experience for users. The bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of a key press, influencing the overall typing sensation. On the other hand, the top housing material affects the sound when releasing a key, contributing to the overall sound profile of the switch. Despite the differences in bottom housing material, both switches are likely to provide a unique typing experience due to the combination of polycarbonate and nylon materials in their construction.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the KTT Hyacinth linear switch, it is evident that the Hyacinth is the lighter of the two with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 56 grams, both falling into the medium-light category. On the other hand, the Foggy Shadow has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it medium-heavy compared to the Hyacinth. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces. While some may prefer the lighter touch of the Hyacinth for extended typing sessions or gaming, others may opt for the heavier actuation force of the Foggy Shadow for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing force and feedback.
Travel distance
Both the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the KTT Hyacinth linear switch have a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. This similarity ensures that the typing experience will be consistent between the two switches. In terms of travel distance, neither switch is shorter or longer than the other, making them equally suitable for users who prefer a moderate keypress depth. Overall, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience with a consistent travel distance.
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 Hyacinth has an MSRP of $4.03 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hyacinth for $3.75.
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 comparing the sound qualities of the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the KTT Hyacinth linear switch, both switches are described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that they offer a moderate sound with a balanced tone that is suitable for various environments and users. The Foggy Shadow boasts a low-pitched sound, which tends to be more bass-heavy and mellow, while the Hyacinth's sound profile is described as neutral, offering a versatile sound experience. Ultimately, both switches aim to provide a pleasant auditory experience while typing, with the sound also impacted by factors like the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Foggy Shadow is not specifically described in terms of feel, while the Hyacinth is highlighted as offering a silky and subtle typing experience. A silky switch like the Hyacinth provides an exceptionally smooth typing feel, enhancing overall typing comfort and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Additionally, the subtle resistance of the Hyacinth allows for a light typing feel while keeping the sound signature non-resonant, making it ideal for shared spaces where noise may be a concern.
Overall, when comparing the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the KTT Hyacinth linear switch, both switches strive to offer a balanced performance in terms of sound and feel. While the Foggy Shadow excels in a low-pitched sound profile and a 63.5g bottom-out force for a medium weight typing experience, the Hyacinth differentiates itself with a 3.5mm travel distance to prevent hard bottoming-out and a choice of a single-stage elongated spring for a consistent force curve. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing feel, users can expect similar results in terms of quality and performance with these two innovative switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch or the KTT Hyacinth linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a light tactile bump, the Foggy Shadow may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force, a smooth typing experience with a short travel distance, and a more consistent force curve, the Hyacinth may be the switch that suits your needs better. Both switches offer neutral sound profiles, but the Hyacinth provides a silky and subtle typing feel compared to the Foggy Shadow. Consider these factors carefully before making your decision, as the right switch can greatly enhance your typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
