Aflion Foggy Shadow vs. Outemu Silver
An in-depth look at the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Outemu Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Outemu Silver offer distinct options for users seeking different typing experiences. The Aflion Foggy Shadow, a tactile switch, stands out for its light tactile bump and 63.5g bottom-out force, providing a balanced performance for those looking for a medium-weight switch with a satisfying tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver is a linear switch that offers a smooth keystroke without any tactile bump, appealing to users who prefer a consistent and linear typing experience. 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
1.60 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 housing materials of the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Outemu Silver are both described as having polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. This results in a more clear and resonant sound when typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially beneficial for switches that plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through. Both switches offer this polycarbonate top housing for enhanced sound quality and aesthetics.
One key point of contrast between the two switches is their bottom housing material. The Foggy Shadow utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver also features a nylon bottom housing, providing similar benefits of a deeper sound profile. Despite this difference in their bottom housings, both switches offer a similar typing experience with enhanced sound qualities.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Outemu Silver mainly lie in their bottom housing material, while both switches share the use of polycarbonate for their top housing. This results in a similar sound profile with a sharper and crisper tone. The split qualities between the top and bottom housing of a switch affect how the sound and feel are experienced during typing. While the nylon bottom housing may create a deeper sound, the polycarbonate top housing ensures clarity and resonance in the overall typing experience for both switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch, it is evident that the Foggy Shadow has a lower actuation force compared to the Silver. The Foggy Shadow has an actuation force of None grams, while the Silver has an actuation force of 45 grams. Both switches have a medium-heavy bottom out force, with the Foggy Shadow requiring 63.5 grams and the Silver requiring 65 grams. For individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Aflion Foggy Shadow would be the better choice due to its lower actuation force. However, those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Outemu Silver with its slightly higher actuation force. In terms of weight, the Foggy Shadow is lighter in terms of actuation force, while both switches have equal bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the typing experience one desires.
Travel distance
The Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the Outemu Silver linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Foggy Shadow may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, while the Silver's longer travel distance may provide a more substantial key press feel for those who prefer a deeper keystroke. Both switches offer unique advantages based on their travel distance, with the Foggy Shadow offering a quicker response and the Silver providing a more hearty keystroke experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired 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 Silver 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, giving off a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. This can create a soothing typing experience, especially in quieter environments. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver linear switch's sound profile is unknown, so it's difficult to directly compare the two in this aspect.
When it comes to feel, information about the Foggy Shadow's tactile bump is not provided. However, with a 63.5g bottom-out force, these switches are likely to offer a satisfying amount of tactile feedback without being overly heavy. In contrast, details about the feel of the Outemu Silver linear switch are also missing, making it challenging to draw a direct comparison in this area.
Overall, if you prefer a switch with a low-pitched sound profile and a light tactile bump, the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a linear switch with an unknown sound profile and feel, trying out the Outemu Silver switch could potentially provide similar results. Ultimately, the decision between the Aflion Foggy Shadow and Outemu Silver switches will depend on personal preference and the specific typing experience you are seeking.
Conclusion
Therefore, when deciding between the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch, you should choose the Aflion Foggy Shadow if you prefer a lighter tactile bump with a medium weight bottom-out force. This switch is ideal for those looking for a balanced performance with a low-pitched and mellow sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a slightly higher bottom-out force, the Outemu Silver is a solid choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for tactile feedback and overall typing experience.
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