Aflion Foggy Shadow vs. Durock Ice King Tactile
An in-depth look at the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Durock Ice King Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Aflion Foggy Shadows and Durock Ice King Tactile are both tactile switches that offer unique features for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Foggy Shadows from Aflion are characterized by a light tactile bump and a 63.5g bottom-out force, striking a balance between tactile feedback and typing comfort. On the other hand, the Ice King Tactiles from Durock are known for their creamy smoothness and pronounced tactile bump, creating a satisfying typing experience with a symphony of touch. While the Foggy Shadows focus on medium weight and balanced performance, the Ice King Tactiles emphasize smoothness, subtlety, and finesse. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different preferences. 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
58g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
68g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Durock Ice King Tactile, we can see that both switches utilize nylon for the bottom housing. This means that they both offer a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. However, where they differ is in the top housing material. The Foggy Shadow features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the Ice King Tactile's nylon top housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. So, while both switches offer a similar bottom housing material, their top housing materials provide distinct sound characteristics.
Another point of comparison between the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Durock Ice King Tactile is the impact of housing materials on the overall typing experience. With the Foggy Shadow's polycarbonate top housing, users can expect a more resonant and clear sound profile, especially when using RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Ice King Tactile contributes to a more muted and rounded sound profile. In terms of the bottom housing, both switches utilizing nylon result in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This shows that the choice of housing materials can greatly affect the overall sound and feel of typing on mechanical switches.
Ultimately, the difference in housing materials between the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Durock Ice King Tactile highlights how various plastics can influence sound profiles. While the Foggy Shadow's polycarbonate top housing creates a crisper sound profile, the Ice King Tactile's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches share a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a consistent deeper sound profile. Therefore, whether you prefer a sharper sound with clear housing or a more rounded sound with classic nylon housing, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch both fall into the medium-heavy category when it comes to bottom out force. The Foggy Shadow has a lower actuation force of None grams compared to the Ice King Tactile's 58 grams. This means that the Ice King Tactile requires a bit more force to trigger a keystroke. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force of around 60-70 grams, providing a satisfying and substantial typing experience for those who prefer a heavier push feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on whether you prioritize a lighter actuation force for extended typing sessions or a heavier bottom out force for a more pronounced typing experience.
Travel distance
The Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch both have a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent travel experience, which can enhance typing or gaming performance. Overall, the travel distance of these switches is the same, providing a similar tactile feel for users.
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 Durock Ice King Tactile has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ice King Tactile for $4.20.
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 it comes to sound, the Aflion Foggy Shadow offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone with a moderate actuation force requirement suitable for various environments. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Tactile presents a subdued sound, producing a dampened yet subtle sound signature when pressed, adding a touch of elegance to the typing experience. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch is also affected by factors such as the keyboard you use and the keycaps attached.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Foggy Shadow's tactile bump is described as light, providing a balanced medium weight typing experience; however, specific details about the feel are not provided. In contrast, the Durock Ice King Tactile is said to offer a silky, frictionless, and polished typing experience, with a pronounced tactile bump that enhances smoothness, minimizes resistance, and provides a refined finish. Additionally, the Ice King Tactile is noted for its stepped feel, offering a unique two-stage typing sensation with a smoother key travel.
In conclusion, while the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Durock Ice King Tactile both offer tactile switches, they differ in sound and feel qualities. The Foggy Shadow emphasizes a light tactile bump with low-pitched and neutral sound characteristics, ideal for those seeking a balanced typing experience. In contrast, the Ice King Tactile excels in providing a creamy smooth feel with a pronounced tactile bump, offering a symphony of touch with silky, polished, and frictionless qualities. Depending on your preferences, either switch can provide a satisfying and unique tactile typing experience, ensuring a pleasant journey into the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch or the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a lighter tactile bump with a lower bottom out force and a neutral sound profile, the Foggy Shadow may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more pronounced tactile bump with a slightly higher bottom-out force and a subdued sound profile, the Ice King Tactile could be the ideal choice. Both switches offer unique features and characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so it's important to consider what factors are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch. Ultimately, the decision should be based on what feels most comfortable and satisfying for your typing experience.
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