Aflion Foggy Shadow vs. Gateron Quinn
An in-depth look at the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Gateron Quinn switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Gateron Quinn mechanical keyboard switches, both being tactile switches, it becomes evident that they each offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Foggy Shadow by Aflion is characterized by its light tactile bump and medium weight, providing a balanced performance ideal for those seeking a smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn stands out with its crisp tactility and deep, resonant sound profile, offering users a satisfying and immersive typing experience. While the Foggy Shadow may appeal to individuals looking for a light tactile bump, the Quinn is perfect for those who appreciate a unique sound profile and precise tactile bump. 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
59g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Housing materials
Both the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Gateron Quinn feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile. However, the Foggy Shadow's polycarbonate top housing is specifically noted for producing a higher-pitched sound, while the Quinn's nylon top housing is said to elicit a deeper and fuller sound. This contrast in sound profiles can impact the typing experience for users, with the Foggy Shadow potentially being preferred by those who enjoy a sharper sound, while the Quinn may appeal to those who prefer a deeper tone.
In terms of bottom housings, both the Foggy Shadow and the Quinn utilize nylon, known for its ability to absorb sound and create a duller and rounder sound profile. This similarity means that when typing on either switch, users can expect a consistent depth and fullness in the sound produced. However, the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel may vary slightly between the two switches, depending on how the nylon material interacts with the overall switch design. Overall, the shared use of nylon in the bottom housings of the Foggy Shadow and the Quinn ensures a certain level of sound absorption and consistency in typing experience.
While the top and bottom housings of the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Gateron Quinn may differ in material, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience through their choice of housing materials. The stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the Foggy Shadow creates a clear and resonant sound, while the softer nylon bottom housing of both switches absorbs sound to produce a fuller tone. This combination of housing materials allows for a balance of sharpness and depth in the sound profiles of the switches, catering to different preferences among users. Whether one prefers the higher-pitched sound of the Foggy Shadow or the deeper tone of the Quinn, the housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience on these mechanical switches.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, it is evident that the Quinn switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 59 grams compared to the Foggy Shadow's unspecified force. However, the Foggy Shadow requires a higher bottom out force of 63.5 grams, while the Quinn switch has a bottom out force of 67 grams. Both switches fall under the medium-heavy category in terms of force required for typing. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Quinn switch might be more suitable, allowing for longer typing periods without fatigue. On the other hand, the Foggy Shadow provides a more substantial typing experience with a higher bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for typing feel and the desired level of force required for key actuation.
Travel distance
The Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Quinn tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making the Foggy Shadow slightly longer in terms of travel distance. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular especially among gamers looking for quicker response times. Choosing between the two would come down to personal preference - if you prefer a slightly deeper press, the Foggy Shadow might be the better option, whereas if you prefer a slightly quicker response, the Quinn could be the way to go. Ultimately, both switches offer a relatively similar experience due to their similar travel distances.
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 Gateron Quinn has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Quinn for $5.50.
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, emphasizing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn provides a bassy, clacky, low-pitched, and resonant sound experience, delivering a deeper, richer, and more immersive auditory sensation. Depending on personal preference, users may find the Foggy Shadow's sound to be more subdued and balanced, while the Quinn's sound may offer a more vibrant and lively typing experience.
When it comes to feel, there is no specific information available for the Aflion Foggy Shadow, so we can only compare it to the descriptions provided for the Gateron Quinn. The Quinn switch is described as snappy, polished, bouncy, accented, buttery, and creamy. These qualities suggest a super responsive and smooth typing experience with a lively feedback sensation and a prominent yet not overwhelming tactility. Users can expect a seamless and effortless keystroke with a buttery sensation, highlighting the Quinn switch's attention to tactile precision and comfort during typing sessions.
In conclusion, the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Gateron Quinn offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Foggy Shadow provides a more balanced and neutral sound profile without specific feel descriptors, the Quinn switch boasts a deep, resonant sound and a tactile experience that is snappy, polished, bouncy, accented, buttery, and creamy. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles, ensuring users can find a switch that suits their individual needs and enhances their overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when choosing between the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, consider your preference for typing feel and sound. If you prefer a light tactile bump with a neutral sound profile and medium-heavy bottom-out force, the Foggy Shadow may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a crisp tactile bump with a deep, resonant sound profile and don't mind a slightly higher bottom-out force, the Quinn could be the switch for you. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's important to test them out to see which one aligns best with your typing style.
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