Aflion Foggy Shadow vs. KTT Matcha
An in-depth look at the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the KTT Matcha switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Foggy Shadow and KTT Matcha mechanical keyboard switches, both fall under the tactile switch category but offer unique characteristics. The Foggy Shadow by Aflion is praised for its light tactile bump and medium weight of 63.5g, showcasing a balanced performance for users. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha is known for its comfortable and snappy tactility, along with a clean bottom-out sound thanks to its long pole stem. While the Foggy Shadow is categorized as 'Low-pitched' and 'Neutral', the Matcha is described as 'Stepped', 'Snappy', 'Accented', 'Clacky', 'Feathery', and 'Subtle'. When choosing between the two, consider the desired typing experience, sound profile, and feel you prefer. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the KTT Matcha, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for showcasing RGB lighting effects. However, where they differ is in the bottom housing material. The Foggy Shadow features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. In contrast, the Matcha utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, maintaining the sharper and clearer sound profile consistent with the top housing material.
The use of different bottom housing materials in the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the KTT Matcha creates distinct tactile experiences for users. Typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing, like the Foggy Shadow, results in a softer and more absorptive feel, leading to a duller and rounder sound profile. In comparison, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Matcha contributes to a more sharp and resonant sound when typing. These differences in bottom housing materials ultimately impact the bottom-out sound and feel of each switch, influencing the overall typing experience for users.
While the top and bottom housings of the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the KTT Matcha differ, the qualities of each housing material play a crucial role in the overall sound profile of the switches. The bottom housing material affects the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down a key, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both switches offer a unique typing experience based on the combination of their housing materials. Whether it be the deeper sound of nylon in the Foggy Shadow or the sharper sound of polycarbonate in the Matcha, users can expect a distinct auditory and tactile experience with each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch, one can see distinct differences. The Foggy Shadow has an actuation force of None grams, making it unclear, while the Matcha has an actuation force of 40 grams, indicating a lighter touch needed to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Foggy Shadow requires 63.5 grams to fully press down, giving it a medium-heavy feel, whereas the Matcha only needs 45 grams, making it lighter. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods may lean towards the Matcha, while those seeking a more substantial push feel may opt for the Foggy Shadow. Both switches offer unique attributes that cater to different preferences in typing force, resulting in varied typing experiences.
Travel distance
The Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the KTT Matcha tactile switch. This means that the Foggy Shadow will require less distance to press down fully compared to the Matcha. Gamers who value faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Foggy Shadow, while those who prefer a more pronounced keypress may opt for the longer travel distance of the Matcha. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for keypress depth and responsiveness.
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 Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
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 tone, providing a bass-heavy and mellow sound suitable for various environments and users. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha produces a clacky sound that is sharp, snappy, and percussive, adding a dynamic audio element to the typing experience. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Foggy Shadow does not have specific descriptors provided, which may indicate a more straightforward tactile experience without additional unique features. In contrast, the KTT Matcha offers a stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle feel. This suggests a nuanced tactile response with various stages to the keystroke, enhanced responsiveness, and a light yet distinct tactile feedback suitable for extended typing sessions.
Overall, while both the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the KTT Matcha switches offer tactile feedback, they exhibit differences in sound and feel. The Foggy Shadow provides a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, potentially appealing to users looking for a balanced auditory experience. In comparison, the Matcha delivers a clacky sound accompanied by a stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle tactile feel, offering a more dynamic and responsive typing sensation. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between these two switches to achieve their desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, opt for the Aflion Foggy Shadow. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch with a bottom out force of 45 grams, go for the KTT Matcha. Additionally, consider the sound profile you prefer – the Foggy Shadow offers a low-pitched and neutral sound, while the Matcha provides a clacky sound. Finally, think about the typing feel you prefer – the Matcha offers a stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and needs.
Mentioned in this article
