Aflion Foggy Shadow vs. Outemu Dustproof Brown
An in-depth look at the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Outemu Dustproof Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Outemu Dustproof Brown, both of which fall under the tactile switch category. The Aflion Foggy Shadow, recently introduced by Aflion, offers a light tactile bump and a 63.5g bottom-out force, making it ideal for those who prefer a medium weight switch with balanced performance. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Brown, known for its dustproof feature, provides a different tactile experience. While the Foggy Shadow is categorized as 'Low-pitched' and 'Neutral', the Dustproof Brown's categorization is not specified. In making a decision between these two switches, it is important to consider your preference for tactile feedback and noise level. 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
45g
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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Outemu Dustproof Brown, both switches feature polycarbonate top housings. The polycarbonate material in the top housing of both switches creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making them ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, the differences lie in the nylon bottom housings. The Foggy Shadow's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic absorbing more sound, while the Dustproof Brown's nylon bottom housing provides a similar effect. The nylon bottom housings split the qualities each housing material brings to the overall switch experience.
When considering the housing materials individually, the Foggy Shadow's polycarbonate top housing offers a clearer and resonant sound profile, thanks to its stiffness, creating a distinct sound when keys are released. On the other hand, the Dustproof Brown's polycarbonate top housing delivers a similar sharp and crisp sound profile, making it suitable for switches with RGB lighting. In terms of the nylon bottom housings, both switches offer a deeper and fuller sound profile, with the softer nylon material absorbing more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when keys are pressed.
In conclusion, while both the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Outemu Dustproof Brown feature polycarbonate top housings that provide a sharp and crisp sound profile, the differences lie in the nylon bottom housings. Both switches offer a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nylon material. The split housing materials impact the overall sound and feel of the switches, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when keys are released. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, it is clear that the Dustproof Brown requires a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Foggy Shadow's unknown force. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Foggy Shadow at 63.5 grams and the Dustproof Brown at 65 grams, both falling into the medium-heavy category. This means that while the Dustproof Brown may provide a slightly lighter initial push, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of overall resistance when bottoming out. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
The Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it slightly shorter than the traditional 4 mm travel distance found in the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch. This means that the Foggy Shadow offers a quicker response time, which is favored by gamers looking for fast reactions. On the other hand, the Dustproof Brown switch provides a deeper key press with its 4 mm travel distance, making it a better choice for those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance - whether you prioritize speed and responsiveness or a more tactile typing experience.
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 Dustproof Brown 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 known for its low-pitched and neutral sound profile. The low-pitched sound gives off a bass-heavy and mellow tone, while the neutral profile offers a moderate actuation force requirement suitable for various purposes. On the other hand, information on the sound of the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch is currently unavailable. Depending on other factors such as keyboard and keycap choices, both switches can deliver a pleasing sound experience.
Moving on to feel, details about the tactile feel of the Aflion Foggy Shadow switch are currently unknown. Similarly, there is no available information on the tactile feel of the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch. While this may limit a direct comparison between the two switches in terms of feel, it's important to note that both switches belong to the tactile category, providing a tactile bump during actuation.
In conclusion, the Aflion Foggy Shadow and Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switches each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Foggy Shadow is known for its low-pitched sound and light tactile bump, while information on the Dustproof Brown switch is currently unavailable. Both switches cater to users seeking a tactile typing experience, with the Foggy Shadow featuring a 63.5g bottom-out force for a balanced performance. Ultimately, while the specific characteristics may differ, using either switch will likely result in a satisfying tactile typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you value a very light tactile bump and a slightly lighter bottom-out force of 63.5 grams, the Foggy Shadow may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom-out force of 65 grams and are looking for a more traditional tactile switch experience, the Dustproof Brown could be the way to go. Consider your typing style, preferences, and budget when making your decision. Ultimately, both switches offer a unique typing experience that caters to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Mentioned in this article
