Aflion Foggy Shadow vs. Outemu Black
An in-depth look at the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Outemu Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are countless options to choose from, each with its own unique characteristics and benefits. Two switches that stand out are the Aflion Foggy Shadow, a tactile switch, and the Outemu Black, a linear switch. The Foggy Shadow, recently released by Aflion, boasts a light tactile bump and a bottom-out force of 63.5g, providing a balanced performance that is ideal for many users. On the other hand, the Outemu Black is a linear switch known for its smooth keystrokes and lack of tactile feedback. While the Foggy Shadow offers a tactile typing experience, the Outemu Black provides a consistent feel with each keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and typing style; 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
65g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
82g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.50 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Outemu Black, we find that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, making it ideal for switches where sound is a crucial factor. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding to the aesthetic appeal of the switches. This similarity in housing material ensures that users can expect a consistent sound profile and visual experience from both the Foggy Shadow and the Black.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing materials. The Foggy Shadow features a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Black's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon's softer properties allow it to absorb more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound that may appeal to those looking for a more muted typing experience. This contrast in bottom housing materials showcases how different plastics can affect the overall sound profile and feel of a switch, catering to a variety of preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Outemu Black will come down to individual preferences regarding sound and typing feel. While both switches share a polycarbonate top housing for a clear and resonant sound profile, the difference in bottom housing materials highlights the unique characteristics each switch brings to the table. Whether you prefer the sharper sound of polycarbonate in the Foggy Shadow or the deeper sound of nylon in the Black, both switches offer distinct typing experiences that cater to different user preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the Outemu Black linear switch, it is evident that the Foggy Shadow has a lighter actuation force with no specific grams mentioned while the Black requires 65 grams to actuate. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Foggy Shadow has a slightly lighter force of 63.5 grams compared to the Black's heavier bottom out force of 82 grams. This means that the Foggy Shadow may provide a lighter typing experience overall, more suitable for extended typing sessions, while the Outemu Black offers a more substantial and heavier feel, ideal for those who prefer a stronger push when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the Outemu Black linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Foggy Shadow offers a quicker and more responsive typing experience compared to the Black, making it ideal for gamers or those who prefer shorter travel distances. On the other hand, the Outemu Black provides a deeper and more satisfying key press due to its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel 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 Outemu Black comes in at $3.10 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
When it comes to sound, the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch is best known for its low-pitched and neutral sound profile. These switches offer a mellow tone with a moderate actuation force requirement, making them suitable for various settings. On the other hand, information about the sound of the Outemu Black linear switch is unknown. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, details about the feel of both the Aflion Foggy Shadow and Outemu Black switches are not provided. Therefore, it is unclear how these switches differ in terms of tactile feedback and overall typing experience.
In conclusion, based on the available information, the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch is characterized by a light tactile bump, medium weight, low-pitched sound, and a neutral feel. In contrast, details about the Outemu Black linear switch are limited. If the Outemu Black switch is similar in weight and actuation force, you can expect to achieve a comparable typing experience in terms of tactile feedback and sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches would depend on personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and overall performance.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the Outemu Black linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a lighter tactile bump and a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Foggy Shadow may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and are not as concerned about tactility, the Black switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing experience and performance.
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