Aflion Foggy Shadow vs. Outemu Green
An in-depth look at the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Outemu Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare and contrast are the Aflion Foggy Shadow, a tactile switch, and the Outemu Green, a clicky switch. The Aflion Foggy Shadow stands out for its light tactile bump and 63.5g bottom-out force, providing a balanced performance for users who prefer medium-weight keys. On the other hand, the Outemu Green is known for its satisfying clicky feedback, offering a different typing experience. While the Foggy Shadow is categorized as 'Low-pitched' and 'Neutral', the Green switch does not have specific categorizations. Each switch has its own unique qualities that may appeal to different users depending on their preferences. 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
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 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
When comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Outemu Green, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, it leads to a more clear and resonant sound output. Furthermore, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, making it an ideal material for the top housing of switches intended for use with RGB lighting.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the Foggy Shadow and the Outemu Green differ in material, with the Foggy Shadow featuring a nylon bottom housing while the Outemu Green also utilizes polycarbonate for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The use of different materials for the bottom housing of these switches demonstrates how the qualities of each material can impact the overall sound and feel of typing on the switches.
Ultimately, the choice of housing materials for switches like the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Outemu Green plays a significant role in the sound and feel of typing on these switches. While both switches share the benefits of polycarbonate top housings, the differing bottom housing materials showcase how nuances in material can affect the overall typing experience. Whether it be the sharper, crisper sound of polycarbonate or the deeper, fuller sound of nylon, each material brings its own unique qualities to the switch that can impact user preference and satisfaction.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch, we can see some differences in weight. The Foggy Shadow has an actuation force of None grams, making it lighter in terms of force required to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the Green switch has an actuation force of 65 grams, making it heavier in comparison. When it comes to bottom out force, the Foggy Shadow requires 63.5 grams to fully press down, while the Green switch requires 80 grams, making it heavier as well. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Foggy Shadow for extended typing sessions, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may opt for the heavier Green switch. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches offer a variety of options for different preferences, allowing users to choose the one that best suits their typing style.
Travel distance
The Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5mm, while the Outemu Green clicky switch has a travel distance of 4mm. This means that the Outemu Green switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Aflion Foggy Shadow switch. If you are looking for a faster response time and prefer a shorter travel distance, you might lean towards the Foggy Shadow switch. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial keypress and a longer travel distance, the Outemu Green switch might be the better option for you. Both switches offer different tactile experiences based on their travel distance, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference in choosing between the two.
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 Green 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
The Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch is known for its low-pitched sound profile, which provides a bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for various settings. With a neutral actuation force requirement, these switches are versatile for both beginner and advanced users in any environment. On the other hand, the Outemu Green clicky switch does not have any specific information available regarding its sound characteristics.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, there is no specific information provided for either the Aflion Foggy Shadow or the Outemu Green switches. Therefore, without this data, it is challenging to make a direct comparison between the two in terms of the tactile feedback and overall feel during typing.
In conclusion, based on the available information, the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch offers a unique low-pitched sound profile with a light tactile bump and a 63.5g bottom-out force, emphasizing balanced performance. On the other hand, the Outemu Green clicky switch lacks specific details on sound and feel. If considering these switches for your mechanical keyboard, it is recommended to further research or try them out personally to determine which one aligns best with your preferences.
Conclusion
Therefore, when choosing between the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a lighter tactile bump and a medium-heavy bottom-out force, the Foggy Shadow would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you like a heavier bottom-out force and a clicky switch for that satisfying typing sound, then the Outemu Green switch would suit you better. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound. Consider these factors carefully to ensure you select the switch that best aligns with your typing style and preferences.
Mentioned in this article
