Aflion Foggy Shadow vs. Gateron Ink Box Black

Overview

The Aflion Foggy Shadow, a tactile switch, has quickly gained recognition in the switch market for its light tactile bump and 63.5g bottom-out force, providing a balanced and medium-weighted typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Black, a linear switch, stands out for its smooth and creamy feel, with a sound signature reminiscent of a shaking spray paint can. While the Foggy Shadow offers a light tactile feedback, the Ink Box Black provides a seamless linear experience. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Aflion Foggy Shadow Tactile

Gateron Ink Box Black Linear

$5.50

$3.91 per 10

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Gateron Ink Box Black, it is evident that they both utilize unique materials to achieve specific sound profiles. The Foggy Shadow's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer plastic composition, whereas the Ink Box Black's proprietary INK blend top housing produces a pointed and high-pitched, yet not overly sharp, sound profile. While both materials aim to enhance the sound produced by the switches, they offer slightly different characteristics in terms of pitch and clarity.

In terms of the bottom housing materials, the Foggy Shadow's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Ink Box Black's proprietary INK blend bottom housing. The nylon material is known for its ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Box Black contributes to its satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound, often described as clacky. While both materials impact the sound produced by the switches, they offer distinct sound qualities that cater to different preferences.

Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and feel of the keyboard. The split between the top and bottom housings in a switch allows for a combination of qualities from both materials to contribute to the overall typing experience. Whether it is the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel from the bottom housing or the sound produced when releasing a key from the top housing, each material brings its unique characteristics to enhance the overall sound profile and typing experience of the switches. Whether it's the polycarbonate and nylon of the Foggy Shadow or the proprietary INK blend of the Ink Box Black, users can expect similar results in terms of sound quality and feel based on the specific housing materials used in the switches.

Weight

When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch, it is evident that the Foggy Shadow is lighter in terms of actuation force due to its None grams rating, while the Ink Box Black requires 60 grams. However, both switches have a medium-heavy bottom out force, with the Foggy Shadow at 63.5 grams and the Ink Box Black at 70 grams. This means that while the initial keystroke may be easier on the Foggy Shadow, both switches will provide a similar typing experience once the key is fully pressed down. Users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions may opt for the Foggy Shadow, while those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the heavier actuation force of the Ink Box Black. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and desired typing experience.

Travel distance

The Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Ink Box Black has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Foggy Shadow. The difference of 0.1 mm may not seem significant, but it can impact the overall feel and feedback of the switch. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may lean towards the Foggy Shadow with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a deeper and more substantial key press may find the longer travel distance of the Ink Box Black more to their liking. Both switches offer unique characteristics in terms of travel distance, providing users with options that cater to their specific preferences.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Aflion Foggy Shadow offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a more subdued and balanced tone compared to other switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Black produces a clacky and high-pitched sound, giving a sharp and crisp acoustics that can be quite lively and energetic. The choice between the two will depend on personal preference, with the Foggy Shadow offering a more calming auditory experience while the Ink Box Black delivers a more vibrant and assertive sound.

When it comes to feel, the Aflion Foggy Shadow's tactile bump offers a light and responsive keystroke experience, providing just the right amount of feedback for precise typing. The Gateron Ink Box Black, on the other hand, offers a silky and polished feel, ensuring smooth and effortless key presses with minimal resistance. Both switches excel in their own way, with the Foggy Shadow prioritizing tactile feedback and the Ink Box Black emphasizing smoothness and refined key travel.

Overall, the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Gateron Ink Box Black offer contrasting but equally impressive qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Foggy Shadow leans towards a softer and more balanced sound with a light tactile bump, the Ink Box Black delivers a lively and sharp acoustics coupled with a smooth and polished typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences, with both switches showcasing innovative design and exceptional performance in the mechanical keyboard market.

Conclusion

To sum up, when deciding between the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch, you should choose the Foggy Shadow if you prefer a light tactile bump and a lower bottom-out force of 63.5 grams. The Foggy Shadow is also a good choice if you prefer low-pitched and neutral sound profiles. On the other hand, if you prioritize smoothness in your typing experience and prefer a more polished and silky feel, the Gateron Ink Box Black with a bottom-out force of 70 grams is the better option for you. The Ink Box Black also offers a clacky and high-pitched sound profile which might be more appealing to some users. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for tactile feedback, typing feel, and sound profile.

Mentioned in this article

Aflion Foggy Shadow Tactile

$5.50

$3.91 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Ink Box Black Linear

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

Learn more