Aflion Foggy Shadow vs. KTT Lightning
An in-depth look at the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the KTT Lightning switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the KTT Lightning offer unique features catered to different preferences. The Foggy Shadow by Aflion is a tactile switch known for its light tactile bump and medium weight, providing a balanced performance ideal for those looking for a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Lightning is a linear switch designed for speed, with a slick type feel and clacky sound profile perfect for gamers seeking quick response times. While the Foggy Shadow offers a light tactile feedback, the Lightning provides a smooth linear experience. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.00 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the KTT Lightning use polycarbonate for their top housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiff plastic that creates a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed to showcase RGB lighting. On the other hand, while both switches feature nylon bottom housings, the material absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing.
While both switches share similarities in their housing materials, the Foggy Shadow and Lightning differ in the overall sound and feel. The impact of the bottom housing material is more noticeable during the bottom-out sound and feel of the key press, with nylon contributing to a rounder and duller sound. Conversely, the top housing material plays a significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key, with polycarbonate creating a clear and resonant sound profile. These differences add to the unique typing experience offered by each switch, catering to different preferences in sound and feel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the KTT Lightning will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches creates a sharp and crisp sound profile, ideal for those who prefer a clear and resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of both switches delivers a deeper and fuller sound, appealing to those who enjoy a softer and more absorbing typing feel. Whether prioritizing sound quality or typing comfort, both switches offer a unique blend of housing materials to cater to a variety of user preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch, it is clear that the Lightning switch is lighter in both aspects. The Foggy Shadow has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which is medium-heavy, while the Lightning has a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it lighter in comparison. The actuation force of the Foggy Shadow is unknown, while the Lightning has an actuation force of 43 grams, indicating that it requires less force to trigger a keystroke. The difference in weights between the two switches offers users the option to choose based on their preference for typing experience, with lighter switches being more suitable for extended typing sessions and heavier switches providing a more substantial feel while typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the KTT Lightning linear switch has a travel distance of 3 mm. This makes the Lightning switch the shorter option compared to the Foggy Shadow. The difference may seem minimal, but for those who prefer a more responsive feel, the Lightning switch may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, the Foggy Shadow switch offers a slightly deeper press, which some users may find more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and what type of typing or gaming experience one is looking for.
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 Lightning comes in at $3.41 per 10 switches.
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 and neutral sound profile, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for various settings. On the other hand, the KTT Lightning switch has a clacky, high-pitched, and chirpy sound profile, delivering a sharp, crisp, and percussive sound with a unique squeak. The difference in sound between the two switches can significantly impact the overall typing experience, depending on personal preferences and the environment in which the keyboard will be used.
When it comes to feel, unfortunately, there is no specific information available about the tactile qualities of the Aflion Foggy Shadow switch. However, the KTT Lightning switch is described as having a subtle and polished feel, offering a gentle resistance and smooth key travel for a sleek typing experience. This indicates that the Lightning switch may provide a more refined and comfortable typing feel compared to the Foggy Shadow, which lacks detailed information about its tactile experience.
Overall, if you prefer a keyboard switch with a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, the Aflion Foggy Shadow may be the right choice for you. However, if you prioritize a clacky, high-pitched, and chirpy sound along with a subtle and polished typing feel, the KTT Lightning switch could be a more suitable option. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it's essential to consider your priorities in sound and feel when selecting the ideal switch for your mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a low-pitched, neutral sound profile, the Foggy Shadow may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a light bottom out force and enjoy a clacky, high-pitched, chirpy sound profile, the Lightning switch could be more to your liking. Additionally, if you appreciate a subtle, polished feel in your switches, the Lightning may also be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style, sound preference, and tactile feel when using the keyboard switches.
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