Aflion Foggy Shadow vs. Aflion Iceberg
An in-depth look at the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Aflion Iceberg switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Aflion Foggy Shadow, a tactile switch, and the Aflion Iceberg, a linear switch, are two distinct options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Foggy Shadow stands out for its light tactile bump and medium weight of 63.5g bottom-out force, promising a balanced performance that Aflion is known for. On the other hand, the Iceberg impresses with its smoothness and two-stage spring that offers a fulfilling feel. While the Foggy Shadow is categorized as 'Low-pitched' and 'Neutral', the Iceberg is described as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Snappy', 'Feathery', and 'Subtle'. Deciding between these switches may come down to your preference for a more tactile experience with the Foggy Shadow or a smoother, lighter feel with the Iceberg. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
No
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
20mm two-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Aflion Iceberg feature polycarbonate top housings, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. This results in a more resonant and clear sound when typing on these switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting, as the light can shine through the housing for a visually appealing effect. The similarities in the top housing material of these switches ensure that users can expect similar sound profiles and aesthetics from both the Foggy Shadow and the Iceberg.
In contrast, the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Aflion Iceberg differ in their bottom housing materials. The Foggy Shadow features a nylon bottom housing which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Iceberg also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience with a deeper sound profile. Despite the differences in the top housing, both switches offer a consistent typing experience due to their shared bottom housing material, allowing users to enjoy the tactile feedback and sound characteristics unique to nylon.
When considering the impact of housing materials on switch performance, it is important to note that the qualities of each material are split between the top and bottom housings. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. This split in housing materials allows for a balanced typing experience that combines the unique characteristics of both polycarbonate and nylon, ensuring that users can enjoy a well-rounded sound profile and tactile feedback from the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Aflion Iceberg switches.
Weight
The Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and Iceberg linear switch differ in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Foggy Shadow has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it medium-heavy, while the Iceberg has a lower bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a lighter option. The actuation force for the Iceberg is 37 grams, but the actuation force for the Foggy Shadow is not specified. For those who prefer a more substantial typing experience, the Foggy Shadow may be a better choice due to its heavier bottom out force. On the other hand, the Iceberg may be more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming due to its lighter force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Aflion Iceberg linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches offer a comfortable and responsive typing experience, but the difference in travel distance may affect the feel of the key press. For those who prefer a faster response time and a shorter travel distance, the Foggy Shadow may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, the Iceberg may appeal to those who enjoy a deeper key press with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Aflion Iceberg has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Iceberg for $3.07.
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 tactile switch provides a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for various settings. On the other hand, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch delivers a clacky and high-pitched sound, giving a sharp and crisp tone that some users may find more satisfying. Ultimately, the sound preference between the two switches will come down to personal taste and the overall setup of the keyboard.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch does not have specific descriptors provided, so it may offer a more standard tactile typing experience. In contrast, the Aflion Iceberg linear switch is described as snappy, feathery, and subtle, providing a responsive and light typing feel that can reduce finger fatigue and offer a gentle resistance for comfortable extended typing sessions. Whether you prefer a more standard tactile experience or a lighter and more responsive feel will depend on your personal typing style and preferences.
Overall, the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different user preferences. While the Foggy Shadow excels in a light tactile bump and neutral sound, the Iceberg shines in its smoothness, snappiness, and feathery feel. Depending on whether you prioritize sound, feel, or a combination of both, either switch could provide a satisfying typing experience. It's important to consider your own typing style, preferences, and usage scenarios when deciding between these two innovative switch options from Aflion.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the Aflion Iceberg linear switch, it is important to consider your preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a light tactile bump and a low-pitched, neutral sound profile, the Foggy Shadow may be the best fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light switch with a satisfying smoothness, a snappy, clacky sound profile, and a feathery feel, the Iceberg linear switch could be the better option. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing needs.
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