Aflion Foggy Shadow vs. Gateron Melodic
An in-depth look at the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Gateron Melodic switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Gateron Melodic are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique features for different preferences. The Foggy Shadow, a tactile switch from Aflion, stands out for its light tactile bump and medium weight of 63.5g bottom-out force, catering to those who value balanced performance. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic, a clicky switch, showcases smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems for a classic clicky sound and tactile feedback with added smoothness. While the Foggy Shadow appeals to those seeking a gentle tactile experience, the Melodic is perfect for users who enjoy a buttery, resonant, and crunchy typing sensation. 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
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Gateron Melodic feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is known for its stiffness, which contributes to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. Both switches will provide a similar sound and feel due to the shared polycarbonate top housing.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Foggy Shadow and the Melodic utilize nylon. This classic switch housing material produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer nature which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. The nylon bottom housing significantly impacts the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to other materials. As a result, users can expect a similar typing experience when using either switch with nylon bottom housings.
Overall, the choice of housing materials for the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Gateron Melodic contributes to their unique sound profiles. While the switches share a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper and crisper sound, they differ in their use of nylon for the bottom housing. The nylon bottom housing of both switches enhances the typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound, making them both popular choices for keyboard enthusiasts looking for a specific sound profile. Whether one prefers the Foggy Shadow or the Melodic, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with their combination of housing materials.
Weight
The actuation force of the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch is None grams, while the Gateron Melodic clicky switch also has an actuation force of None grams. This means that both switches require the same amount of force to trigger a keystroke. However, the bottom out force of the Foggy Shadow is 63.5 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Melodic switch, which has a bottom out force of 60 grams. The Foggy Shadow provides a medium-heavy typing experience, ideal for those looking for a more substantial push feel, while the Melodic switch offers a slightly lighter typing experience which may be preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for a lighter or heavier actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter compared to the Gateron Melodic clicky switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Melodic switch offers a slightly longer key travel distance than the Foggy Shadow switch. The difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the overall typing or gaming experience. Those who prefer a quicker response time may lean towards the Foggy Shadow with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more pronounced key press may opt for the Gateron Melodic switch with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Gateron Melodic has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Melodic for $6.00.
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, the Aflion Foggy Shadow offers a low-pitched and neutral tone, providing a mellow and versatile auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic delivers a resonant and crunchy sound, creating a sharp and immersive typing environment. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between a softer tone with the Foggy Shadow or a more intense click sound with the Melodic.
Moving on to feel, while information on the tactile feel of the Foggy Shadow is not provided, the Gateron Melodic is described as buttery and invigorating. This means that the Melodic switch offers a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with pronounced feedback and a snappy, reactive feel. Users looking for a satisfying tactile feedback and a smooth typing sensation may lean towards the Gateron Melodic switch.
Taking into account the sound and feel qualities of the Aflion Foggy Shadow and Gateron Melodic switches, users can expect a different typing experience with each. The Foggy Shadow provides a low-pitched, neutral sound and likely a light tactility, while the Melodic offers a resonant, crunchy sound and a buttery, invigorating feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience, users can choose between these two switches for their mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, both switches promise a unique and enjoyable typing experience tailored to different preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, keep in mind your preference for tactile feedback and sound profile. If you prefer a light tactile bump with a low-pitched and neutral sound, the Foggy Shadow may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a clicky sound with a resonant and crunchy profile, combined with a buttery and invigorating feel, the Gateron Melodic could be the perfect match. Consider your typing style and environment when selecting the switch that best suits your needs and enhances your typing experience. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the specific qualities that you value in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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