Aflion Foggy Shadow vs. Durock Lupine
An in-depth look at the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Durock Lupine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Durock Lupine are two intriguing options to explore. The Foggy Shadow by Aflion boasts a tactile experience with a light tactile bump and a 63.5g bottom-out force, striking a balance between weight and performance. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine offers a linear typing experience with two-stage long springs that provide consistent weight distribution and a powerful upward movement upon rebound. While the Foggy Shadow is categorized as 'Low-pitched' and 'Neutral', the Lupine is labeled as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'High-pitched', and 'Polished'. Choosing between these switches may depend on personal preference for tactile feedback or a smooth linear feel. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Two-stage long spring
Housing materials
Both the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Durock Lupine utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, as it allows for the passage of light to create visually appealing effects. The similarities in the top housing material of these two switches suggest that users can expect similar sound and lighting experiences from both.
In contrast, the bottom housing materials of the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Durock Lupine differ, with the Foggy Shadow featuring a nylon bottom housing and the Lupine also utilizing nylon for the bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. Despite the difference in bottom housing material, both switches are likely to provide a comfortable typing experience due to the sound properties of nylon.
Considering the impact of top and bottom housing materials on the overall sound and feel of a switch, users can expect differences in the bottom-out sound and feel between the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Durock Lupine due to their varying bottom housing materials. The bottom housing material plays a significant role in the sound experienced when pressing down on a key, while the top housing material influences the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, users can expect distinct tactile and auditory experiences from these two switches based on their housing materials.
Weight
The Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch both have a similar actuation force of None grams, meaning they both require the same amount of force to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Aflion Foggy Shadow is slightly heavier at 63.5 grams compared to the Durock Lupine at 62 grams. This makes the Foggy Shadow slightly more substantial in typing experience, suitable for those who prefer a heavier push feel. On the other hand, the Lupine's lighter bottom out force may be more comfortable for extended typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the difference in weight between the two switches may cater to different preferences in typing style and comfort level.
Travel distance
The Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Durock Lupine linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches are relatively close in travel distance, with the Lupine being slightly longer than the Foggy Shadow. These differences may not be very noticeable in actual usage, especially for those who are not sensitive to minute variations in travel distance. However, for individuals who prefer a slightly longer travel distance for a more pronounced key press feel, the Lupine may be the better choice. On the other hand, the Foggy Shadow's slightly shorter travel distance may appeal to users looking for a quicker response time, such as gamers. Overall, both switches offer a similar experience with slight variations in travel distance that can cater to different user preferences.
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 Lupine has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lupine for $4.25.
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, both the Aflion Foggy Shadow and Durock Lupine switches have a neutral profile, making them versatile options suitable for most users. The Foggy Shadow offers a low-pitched sound, which tends to be more bass-heavy and mellow, while the Lupine produces a clacky, high-pitched sound that is sharp and crisp. The final sound outcome will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
Moving on to feel, the Foggy Shadow tactile switch is described as offering a very light tactile bump, providing a subtle feedback feel when typing. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine linear switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, with a consistent weight distribution during key presses and a smooth key travel due to factory lubing or high-quality materials. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable typing experience, albeit through different mechanisms.
In concluding, the Aflion Foggy Shadow offers a low-pitched sound and light tactile feedback, creating a balanced and mellow typing experience. In contrast, the Durock Lupine linear switch provides a clacky, high-pitched sound with a polished and smooth typing feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing feedback, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different user preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether the user prefers a more tactile typing experience with a lighter bump or a linear switch with a consistent and polished feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you prefer a light tactile bump with a medium weight feel and a low-pitched sound profile, then the Foggy Shadow is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a consistent weight distribution, a powerful rebound, and a neutral sound profile with a slight polish for smooth key travel, then the Lupine is the better choice. Consider your typing style and preferences to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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