Aflion Foggy Shadow vs. KTT Phalaenopsis
An in-depth look at the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Aflion Foggy Shadow and the KTT Phalaenopsis are two tactile mechanical keyboard switches that cater to different preferences in typing experience. The Foggy Shadows from Aflion offer a light tactile bump with a 63.5g bottom-out force, striking a balance between tactile feedback and actuation force. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis switches from KTT boast a lower actuation force of 37g and a 50g tactile force, providing a smoother typing experience with a satisfying tactile bump. While the Foggy Shadows are known for their medium weight and balanced performance, the Phalaenopsis switches stand out for their effortless typing and discernible tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and typing style. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Foggy Shadow and the KTT Phalaenopsis both utilize polycarbonate in their top housings, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is known for its stiffness, which results in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting for a visually appealing experience. However, the nylon bottom housing of the Foggy Shadow offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Phalaenopsis's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the sharp and clear sound profile associated with polycarbonate material.
While both the Foggy Shadow and the Phalaenopsis feature polycarbonate in their top housings for a similar sound profile, they diverge in their choice of bottom housing material. The Foggy Shadow's nylon bottom housing creates a different typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile, compared to the crisper sound of the Phalaenopsis's polycarbonate bottom housing. The split in housing materials between the top and bottom of the switch influences the overall sound and feel when typing. The bottom housing primarily affects the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key.
In conclusion, the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the KTT Phalaenopsis exhibit differences in their choice of bottom housing material while sharing the use of polycarbonate in their top housings. The Foggy Shadow's nylon bottom housing offers a different sound profile compared to the Phalaenopsis's polycarbonate bottom housing, showcasing how material choice can impact the overall typing experience. Despite these variations, both switches prioritize creating a distinct sound profile with their housing materials, catering to users who appreciate different sound qualities when typing on mechanical keyboards.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, it is evident that the Foggy Shadow has a higher bottom out force of 63.5 grams compared to the Phalaenopsis's 50 grams. The actuation force of the Foggy Shadow is unspecified, while the Phalaenopsis requires 37 grams. The Phalaenopsis is considered lighter in terms of bottom out force, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming due to its lighter touch. On the other hand, the Foggy Shadow offers a heavier bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Both switches offer different experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose based on their preference for a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
The Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Phalaenopsis has a longer travel distance compared to the Foggy Shadow. The 3.5 mm travel distance of the Foggy Shadow falls in between the traditional 3.0 mm and 4.0 mm distances, making it a good balance for those who want something in between. On the other hand, the 4 mm travel distance of the Phalaenopsis may provide a more substantial feel when pressing down on the key. Both switches offer different experiences based on the travel distance, with the Foggy Shadow providing a slightly shorter distance for those who prefer quicker response times, and the Phalaenopsis offering a longer distance for those who prefer a more substantial keypress 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 Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis for $4.15.
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 switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a mellow tone that is suitable for various environments and preferences. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis switch presents a bassy and thocky sound, offering a deeper and richer experience during key presses. Depending on personal preference, users may lean towards the Foggy Shadow for a more subtle sound or the Phalaenopsis for a deeper and more satisfying auditory feedback.
Moving on to the feel, the Aflion Foggy Shadow switch does not have specific descriptors provided, making it unclear how it feels in comparison to other switches. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis switch is described as stepped, indicating that it provides a two-stage tactile experience with some pre-travel and/or post-travel sensations. This can offer a unique typing feel that may appeal to those who prefer a more nuanced tactile response compared to a traditional linear or non-stepped tactile switch.
Overall, both the Aflion Foggy Shadow and KTT Phalaenopsis switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound pitch, richness, and tactile feedback, users can choose between the subtle and neutral characteristics of the Foggy Shadow or the deep and stepped feel of the Phalaenopsis. Ultimately, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience that caters to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, consider the factors that matter most to you. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a light tactile bump for a balanced typing experience, the Foggy Shadow may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a more effortless typing experience with a discernible tactile bump, the Phalaenopsis may be a better fit. Pay attention to the sound profiles as well, with the Foggy Shadow offering a low-pitched and neutral sound while the Phalaenopsis provides a bassy and thocky sound. Ultimately, both switches have their unique features and it all comes down to personal preference and typing style. Consider these aspects carefully to determine which switch will enhance your typing experience the most. Happy typing!
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