Aflion Foggy Shadow vs. KTT Purple Click
An in-depth look at the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the KTT Purple Click switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Foggy Shadow and KTT Purple Click stand out as unique options. The Foggy Shadow, known for its light tactile bump and 63.5g bottom-out force, offers a balanced performance perfect for those seeking medium weight and a smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Purple Click, also known as Purple Sauce, features a high-pitched and satisfying click with light keystrokes that provide a pronounced tactility without being overwhelming. While the Foggy Shadow leans towards a more neutral and low-pitched feel, the Purple Click offers a crunchy, invigorating, resonant, and stepped typing experience. Each switch has its own strengths and characteristics that cater to different 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
40g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
18mm spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Foggy Shadow and the KTT Purple Click both feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. This makes them ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting as the translucency of polycarbonate allows for a more vibrant lighting experience. Similarly, the use of nylon for the bottom housing in both switches results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is softer and absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound overall.
Despite their similarities in housing materials, the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the KTT Purple Click differ in their overall sound profile due to the distribution of these materials. The qualities of the polycarbonate top housing will be more pronounced in the releasing sound of a key press, while the nylon bottom housing will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. This divergence in housing materials provides a unique tactile and auditory experience for users of these switches, allowing for a more customized typing experience based on personal preferences.
In conclusion, while the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the KTT Purple Click both utilize polycarbonate and nylon in their housing materials, subtle differences in distribution and material properties result in distinct sound profiles and typing experiences for each switch. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound profile or a deeper, fuller sound, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to individual preference in tactile feedback and sound characteristics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, the Foggy Shadow is a heavier switch overall. The Foggy Shadow has an actuation force of None grams, making it unclear how much force is needed to trigger a keystroke, while its bottom out force is 63.5 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy range. In contrast, the Purple Click has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it a medium-light switch. Those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Foggy Shadow with its heavier bottom out force, while users looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the Purple Click with its lighter actuation and bottom out forces. Those who enjoy a similar feel between the two may prefer the Purple Click for a balance between actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, we can see that the Purple Click has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Foggy Shadow's 3.5 mm. The Foggy Shadow's shorter travel distance may appeal to those looking for a quicker response time, such as gamers, while the Purple Click's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying and deeper keystroke for some users. Both switches fall within the range of typical travel distances and can provide a comfortable typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for either a shorter, crisper keystroke or a longer, more satisfying press.
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 Purple Click has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Click for $2.55.
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
In terms of sound, the Aflion Foggy Shadow offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a mellow and moderate auditory experience suitable for a wide range of users. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Click provides a crunchy and resonant sound, reminiscent of stepping on crisp autumn leaves, creating a sharp and immersive typing sound. While the Foggy Shadow leans towards a bass-heavy tone, the Purple Click offers a higher-pitched and more crisp sound.
When it comes to feel, the information provided does not specify the tactile feel of the Aflion Foggy Shadow. However, the KTT Purple Click is described as invigorating and stepped, offering pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive typing experience with a two-stage tactile feel. This indicates that the Purple Click may offer a more tactile sensation compared to the Foggy Shadow.
Considering all the available information, it is evident that the Aflion Foggy Shadow and KTT Purple Click switches have distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and potentially feel. The Foggy Shadow excels in providing a balanced and mellow sound profile, while the Purple Click offers a crunchy and resonant typing experience. Depending on personal preference and typing style, users can choose between the two switches to achieve their desired sound and feel for an optimal mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, it all comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a light tactile bump with a medium-heavy bottom-out force, the Foggy Shadow may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a satisfying click with a medium-light bottom-out force, the Purple Click could be the ideal option. Consider the sound profile and feel of each switch to determine which one aligns best with your typing experience. Whether you prioritize a low-pitched and neutral sound or a crunchy and resonant click, or if you prefer an invigorating or stepped feel, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, make your decision based on what will enhance your typing experience and provide the most comfortable and enjoyable typing sessions.
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