Aflion Foggy Shadow vs. Gateron North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Gateron North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the Aflion Foggy Shadow, a tactile switch, and the Gateron North Pole V2, a linear switch. The Foggy Shadow from Aflion is renowned for its light tactile bump and medium weight of 63.5g bottom-out force, emphasizing a balanced performance in their lineup. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 by Gateron is described as gummy, offering a satisfying and chewy typing feel with a deep and muted sound profile. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Ink Housing Material
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Gateron North Pole V2, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that is resonant and clear. The translucency of the polycarbonate is especially useful for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting, as it allows for a vibrant display. Although both switches share this feature in their top housing, the differences lie in their bottom housing materials. The Foggy Shadow utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its more sound-absorbing properties. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 features a polycarbonate bottom housing, maintaining the sharp and clear sound profile associated with this material.
When considering the impact of the different housing materials on the overall typing experience, it is important to note that the qualities of each material will be felt differently. The bottom housing, whether nylon or polycarbonate, influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed down. The softer nylon of the Foggy Shadow will result in a duller and rounder sound compared to the crisper sound produced by the stiffer polycarbonate of the North Pole V2. Conversely, the top housing material will have more of an impact on the sound when a key is released, highlighting the differences in sound profiles between the two switches.
Overall, while both the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Gateron North Pole V2 share the use of polycarbonate in their top housing, the choice of bottom housing material sets them apart in terms of sound profile. The Foggy Shadow's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, while the North Pole V2's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains a sharp and clear sound profile. These differences in material choices result in distinct typing experiences, making each switch unique in its sound characteristics.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, it is evident that the Foggy Shadow has a lighter actuation force of None grams compared to the North Pole V2's 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Foggy Shadow requires 63.5 grams, while the North Pole V2 demands 65 grams, indicating a slightly heavier bottom out force for the North Pole V2. Despite these differences, both switches fall under the category of medium-heavy when comparing their bottom out forces. The weight of a switch is an essential factor to consider as it can greatly impact typing and gaming experiences. Some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Foggy Shadow for extended typing sessions, while others may opt for the slightly heavier bottom out force of the North Pole V2 for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both are within the range of traditional travel distances for switches, with the North Pole V2 being more in line with the standard 4.0mm distance. Gamers may lean towards the Foggy Shadow for its shorter travel distance, which can lead to faster response times. On the other hand, users who prefer a deeper key press may opt for the North Pole V2 with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and response.
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 North Pole V2 has an MSRP of $6.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the North Pole V2 for $5.70.
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 sound profile, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for various environments. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 presents a subdued sound that is dampened when pressed, offering a more subtle and quiet typing experience. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Foggy Shadow emphasizing a balanced and moderate sound while the North Pole V2 leans towards a quieter and more subdued typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Foggy Shadow is known for its light tactile bump and medium weight, but specific descriptors for its typing feel are not available. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 is described as gummy, creamy, bouncy, and polished, offering a unique typing experience that feels like bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. The creamy and polished qualities of the North Pole V2 provide a smooth and refined typing experience, giving users a silky sensation and reduced friction when typing. Overall, the North Pole V2 presents a more textured and varied typing feel compared to the Foggy Shadow.
In conclusion, the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Gateron North Pole V2 offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. While the Foggy Shadow provides a low-pitched and neutral sound profile with a light tactile bump, the North Pole V2 offers a subdued sound and a unique typing experience with its gummy, creamy, bouncy, and polished qualities. Depending on individual preferences for sound and typing feel, users can choose between the balanced performance of the Foggy Shadow or the textured typing experience of the North Pole V2 to enhance their mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a very light tactile bump and a low-pitched, neutral sound profile with a medium-heavy bottom-out force, the Foggy Shadow may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a gummy, subdued typing feel with a bottom-out force of 65 grams and a creamy, bouncy, polished sensation, the North Pole V2 could be the switch that suits your preferences better. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the specific characteristics that you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Mentioned in this article
