Aflion Foggy Shadow vs. Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro
An in-depth look at the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro are both tactile switches, but they offer unique characteristics that set them apart. The Foggy Shadow, from Aflion, is known for its light tactile bump and 63.5g bottom-out force, providing a balance of performance and weight. On the other hand, the Lavender Purple V3 switches from Akko offer a higher-pitched sound profile and a satisfying tactile bump, contributing to a delightful typing experience. While the Foggy Shadow is categorized as 'Low-pitched' and 'Neutral', the V3 Lavender Purple Pro is labeled 'Accented', 'Bouncy', 'Snappy', and 'Polished'. Each switch has its own appeal depending on the user's 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
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
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
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro, we see that both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches that will be utilizing RGB lighting. Therefore, in terms of sound characteristics and aesthetic appeal, the two switches will provide similar results due to their shared polycarbonate top housing.
However, the differentiation between the two switches lies in their bottom housing materials. The Foggy Shadow uses a nylon bottom housing, which tends to produce a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Lavender Purple Pro's nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder and duller sound profile. Therefore, the typing experience on the Foggy Shadow may feel and sound slightly different due to the influence of the nylon bottom housing compared to the Lavender Purple Pro.
When considering the impact of housing materials on the overall typing experience, it is important to note that the qualities of each material are split between the top and bottom housings of a switch. The bottom housing will have more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will affect the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the combination of a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing in the Foggy Shadow may create a unique typing experience compared to the Lavender Purple Pro's polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housing combination.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, there are notable differences. The Aflion Foggy Shadow has an actuation force of None grams, making it unclear how much force is needed to trigger a keystroke, while it has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. In contrast, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro has an actuation force of 45 grams, indicating a lighter touch needed to activate a key, and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it a medium-light option. For those who prefer a lighter actuation force, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro would be a better choice, whereas the Aflion Foggy Shadow offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force. These differences in weight can impact typing comfort and efficiency, with lighter switches being more suitable for extended use and heavier switches providing a more distinct tactile response.
Travel distance
The Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. The Foggy Shadow has a slightly shorter travel distance than the V3 Lavender Purple Pro, making it a good option for those who prefer a quicker response time. On the other hand, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more substantial keypress feel for users who prefer a deeper press. Overall, both switches offer a relatively close travel distance, providing a comparable typing experience for users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and keypress feel.
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 Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro has an MSRP of $3.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Lavender Purple Pro for $2.20.
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
In terms of sound, the Aflion Foggy Shadow offers a low-pitched sound profile, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. This neutral switch option is suitable for various uses, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and regardless of whether you are typing at home or in a work environment. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro is known for its higher-pitched sound profile, contributing to a more satisfying typing experience. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard itself and the keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Aflion Foggy Shadow's tactile bump is very light, offering a balance between a tactile response and a comfortable typing experience. Unfortunately, specific descriptors for the feel of the Foggy Shadow switch are not available. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch is characterized as accented, providing a medium tactile feel that is not too overwhelming yet not too subtle. This switch also offers a bouncy and snappy sensation, giving a lively and responsive typing experience. Additionally, the polished finish of the Lavender Purple Pro switch ensures smooth and refined key travel, reducing friction for a sleek typing experience.
Overall, the Aflion Foggy Shadow and Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches both offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Foggy Shadow provides a low-pitched sound and a light tactile bump, the Lavender Purple Pro offers a higher-pitched sound profile and a more accented tactile feel. Depending on individual preferences and typing style, users can choose between the two switches to find the one that best suits their needs. Remember that the overall typing experience is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard, keycaps, and personal preference.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, you should choose the Foggy Shadow if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom-out force and a light tactile bump for a balanced performance. On the other hand, opt for the V3 Lavender Purple Pro if you prefer a medium-light bottom-out force and a delightful typing experience with a higher-pitched sound profile and a satisfying tactile bump. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preference for key feel and sound profile.
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