Aflion Foggy Shadow vs. KTT Peach
An in-depth look at the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the KTT Peach switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between tactile and linear switches can greatly influence your typing experience. On one hand, the Aflion Foggy Shadow offers a light tactile bump with a 63.5g bottom-out force, striking a balance between responsiveness and comfort. In contrast, the KTT Peach provides a smooth typing experience with a deep, thocky sound profile, highlighting the characteristics of a linear switch. Both switches are categorized as 'Low-pitched' and 'Neutral', with the Peach also having a 'Mild' classification. While the Foggy Shadow excels in offering a balanced performance, the Peach stands out with its smooth keystrokes and satisfying sound. 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
53g
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
No
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
13mm progressive spring
Housing materials
Both the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the KTT Peach feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate. This results in a more clear and resonant sound when typing on switches with these housings. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially beneficial for switches that use RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through the housing. The similarity in top housing material between the Foggy Shadow and the Peach means that users can expect comparable sound profiles and aesthetics when typing on these switches.
On the other hand, the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the KTT Peach differ in their bottom housing materials, with the Foggy Shadow featuring a nylon bottom housing while the Peach also uses a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The inclusion of nylon bottom housings in both the Foggy Shadow and the Peach adds a unique auditory element to the typing experience, differentiating them from switches with different bottom housing materials.
Overall, the use of polycarbonate top housings in both the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the KTT Peach contributes to a similar sharp and clear sound profile, particularly beneficial for users looking for a more distinct typing experience. However, the difference in bottom housing materials between the two switches adds a variation in sound texture, with the nylon bottom housing of both switches creating a deeper and rounder sound when typing. Whether considering the impact of the top or bottom housing on the overall typing experience, both the Foggy Shadow and the Peach offer a blend of unique sound qualities that cater to different preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the KTT Peach linear switch, we see some notable differences. The Aflion Foggy Shadow has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch with no specified actuation force. On the other hand, the KTT Peach has a lower actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, placing it in the medium-light category. The lighter actuation force of the Peach switch may appeal to those who prefer a more effortless typing experience or gamers looking for quick response times. In contrast, the heavier bottom out force of the Foggy Shadow may provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for typists who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and pressure requirements.
Travel distance
The Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it shorter than the KTT Peach linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Peach switch offers a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Foggy Shadow. In terms of feel and response, the shorter travel distance of the Foggy Shadow may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Peach switch may provide a more satisfying and tactile typing experience for those who prefer a deeper key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference in terms of travel distance and typing feel.
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 KTT Peach comes in at $2.91 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, both the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the KTT Peach switches offer a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, making them suitable for a variety of typing environments. The bass-heavy and mellow tones of these switches create a pleasant typing experience without being overly distracting. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by the type of keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to feel, the Aflion Foggy Shadow switches have not been explicitly described in terms of feel, while the KTT Peach switches are characterized as mild. This indicates that the Peach switches provide a gentle typing experience, with qualities that fall into a safe, middle-ground zone. The smoothness of the Peach switches contributes to a comfortable and enjoyable typing sensation.
Overall, both the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switches and the KTT Peach linear switches offer desirable qualities in terms of sound and feel. With the Foggy Shadow's light tactile bump and the Peach's syrupy smoothness, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with either option. While the switches may differ slightly in feel, the similar low-pitched and neutral sound profiles ensure that users will achieve comparable results in terms of auditory feedback. Ultimately, choosing between the Foggy Shadow and Peach switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience each individual is seeking.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the KTT Peach linear switch, it really comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy tactile bump with a 63.5g bottom-out force and a very light tactile bump, then the Foggy Shadow would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother typing experience with a medium-light 53g bottom-out force and a syrupy smooth sound profile, then the Peach switch might be more suitable for your needs. Both switches offer low-pitched and neutral sound profiles, making them versatile options for various typing environments. Consider your typing preferences and needs carefully before making a decision on which switch to go for.
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