Aflion Foggy Shadow vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Foggy Shadow and Outemu Red Panda stand out as popular choices in the tactile switch category. The Foggy Shadow by Aflion boasts a very light tactile bump and a 63.5g bottom-out force, striking a balance between tactile feedback and medium weight. On the other hand, the Red Panda by Outemu offers a light-medium amount of tactility with a unique bassier bottom-out sound and clackier top-out sound. Both switches have their own distinct characteristics, with the Foggy Shadow being categorized as 'Low-pitched' and 'Neutral', while the Red Panda is known for being 'Thocky' and 'Mild'. If you're looking for a switch with a light tactile bump, the Foggy Shadow may be the way to go, while the Red Panda offers a more distinctive sound profile. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Outemu Red Panda both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. This results in a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. However, since both switches use the same material for their top housing, users can expect similar sound profiles and aesthetics in this aspect.
On the other hand, the Foggy Shadow utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Red Panda's nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for its softer properties that absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound overall. This difference in bottom housing material may lead to a slightly varied typing experience between the two switches, with the Foggy Shadow offering a potentially more satisfying typing sound for some users.
Overall, the choice between the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Outemu Red Panda may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing experience. While both switches share the benefits of a polycarbonate top housing, the use of nylon in the Foggy Shadow's bottom housing may appeal to those seeking a deeper and fuller sound. On the other hand, the Red Panda's nylon bottom housing provides a different typing experience, creating a potential duller and rounder sound. Ultimately, users should consider how each housing material contributes to the overall typing experience they are seeking when deciding between these two switches.
Weight
In comparing the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, it is evident that the Red Panda is the lighter option between the two. The Red Panda requires an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium switch in terms of force. On the other hand, the Foggy Shadow has an unknown actuation force but a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Red Panda would be the more suitable choice, allowing for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. However, for those who appreciate a stronger push feel for more tactile feedback, the Foggy Shadow may be the preferred option despite its slightly heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference for typing feel and weight preference.
Travel distance
The Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. However, the Foggy Shadow has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Red Panda. If you prefer a more substantial keypress depth, the Foggy Shadow may be the preferable option. In contrast, if you prefer a slightly shallower keypress, the Red Panda could be the better choice. Ultimately, the difference in travel distance between these switches is minimal, and both are likely to provide a similar typing experience in terms of key travel.
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 Red Panda comes in at $3.40 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, the Aflion Foggy Shadow offers a low-pitched and neutral tone, providing a more mellow and versatile sound profile that is suitable for various users and environments. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda is known for its thocky sound, producing a deep and rich sound that is satisfying to many typists. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the overall setup of your keyboard.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Aflion Foggy Shadow does not have specific descriptors available to characterize its feel. However, the Outemu Red Panda is described as offering a mild tactile experience, providing a gentle typing feel that is approachable to most users. This mild feeling ensures a comfortable typing experience without being too harsh or too light, striking a balance that many users appreciate.
In conclusion, both the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Outemu Red Panda offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Foggy Shadow provides a low-pitched and neutral sound with a light tactile bump, the Red Panda offers a thocky sound and a mild tactile experience. Depending on your personal preferences and typing style, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct characteristics that can enhance your overall typing experience, so trying out both options may help you determine which switch best suits your individual needs and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch or the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a light tactile bump with a medium-heavy bottom-out force and a low-pitched sound profile, the Foggy Shadow may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a light-medium amount of tactility with a medium bottom-out force, alongside a thocky sound profile and a mild typing experience, then the Red Panda switch might be more suitable. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider what factors are most important to you when selecting the right switch for your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, the decision is yours to make based on what feels most comfortable and satisfying to you as a typist.
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