Aflion Foggy Shadow vs. Outemu Red
An in-depth look at the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Outemu Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Outemu Red are two popular options that cater to different preferences. The Aflion Foggy Shadow, a tactile switch, is renowned for its light tactile bump and 63.5g bottom-out force, striking a balance between responsiveness and comfort. On the other hand, the Outemu Red is a linear switch that offers a smooth keystroke without any tactile feedback. While the Foggy Shadow is categorized as low-pitched and neutral, the Red switch does not have any specific categorization. Choosing between these two switches ultimately depends on individual preferences for typing feel and sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
46g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.10 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
The Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Outemu Red both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this top housing material, they may differ in other aspects such as the bottom housing material.
The Foggy Shadow's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Red's nylon bottom housing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. This difference in bottom housing material can greatly influence the overall typing experience and sound profile of each switch.
Overall, the combination of different housing materials in the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Outemu Red allows for a unique typing experience. The split qualities between the top and bottom housings provide a balance between impact and sound when using the switch. While both switches may share similar polycarbonate top housings, the distinction in bottom housing materials highlights how different materials can affect the overall sound and feel of a switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
The Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the Outemu Red linear switch have notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Foggy Shadow has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it medium-heavy, while the Red has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 62 grams, categorizing it as medium. The actuation force for the Red is 46 grams, which is significantly lower compared to the Foggy Shadow, where the actuation force is unknown. Despite the lack of information on the actuation force for the Foggy Shadow, the bottom out force suggests that it may be heavier than the Red. When it comes to weight preferences, those who prefer lighter switches may lean towards the Red for longer typing sessions, while individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for the slightly heavier Foggy Shadow. Ultimately, selecting between the two switches will depend on personal typing preferences and desired typing feel.
Travel distance
The Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Outemu Red linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Foggy Shadow offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the Outemu Red provides a deeper key press feel with its longer travel distance, which some users may prefer for typing or general use. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preference for travel distance and key response. Both switches offer their own unique benefits, so users can expect similar results in terms of key feel and performance regardless of the slight difference in travel distance.
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 Red 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 offers a low-pitched tone, which tends to be more bass-heavy and mellow compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Red linear switch's sound profile is unknown. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
Regarding feel, specific information about the Aflion Foggy Shadow and Outemu Red switches is not provided. However, tactile switches like the Foggy Shadows typically offer a light tactile bump, providing feedback when the key is actuated, while linear switches like the Outemu Reds offer a smooth keystroke without any tactile feedback.
Overall, both Aflion's Foggy Shadow tactile switch and Outemu's Red linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Foggy Shadow excels in providing a balanced performance with a light tactile bump, the Outemu Red may appeal to those who prefer a smooth keystroke without tactile feedback. Ultimately, the best choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, consider your preference for a light tactile bump and medium weight with the Foggy Shadow, as well as a low-pitched and neutral sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a slightly lighter bottom-out force and a silent operation, the Outemu Red may be the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your typing preference and the overall typing experience you are looking to achieve.
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