Aflion Foggy Shadow vs. KTT Sea Salt Lemon
An in-depth look at the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Aflion Foggy Shadow, a tactile switch, to the KTT Sea Salt Lemon, a linear switch, it becomes evident that both switches have unique features to offer. The Foggy Shadows by Aflion are gaining popularity for their light tactile bump and a bottom-out force of 63.5g, striking a harmonious balance in weight. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemons from KTT boast a smooth typing experience with their progressive spring and dry-lube design. While the Foggy Shadows focus on a tactile typing feel, the Sea Salt Lemons emphasize a linear typing experience. 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This choice of material results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through effectively in both models. This similarity in the top housing material ensures that users can expect a consistent sound and aesthetic experience with either switch.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Foggy Shadow features a nylon bottom housing, while the Sea Salt Lemon also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This difference in bottom housing material may lead to subtle variations in sound and feel when typing on the two switches, with the Foggy Shadow potentially providing a slightly softer and more rounded typing experience.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in both the Foggy Shadow and the Sea Salt Lemon results in unique sound profiles that cater to different sound preferences. While the similarities in top housing material ensure a consistent sharp and crisp sound, the differences in bottom housing material may offer users a slightly different tactile typing experience between the two switches. Ultimately, users can choose between the Foggy Shadow for a potentially softer bottom-out sound or the Sea Salt Lemon for a more rounded typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, it is clear that the Foggy Shadow is the heavier option with a bottom out force of 63.5 grams compared to the Sea Salt Lemon's 53 grams. While the actuation force of the Foggy Shadow is not specified, the Sea Salt Lemon requires 45 grams to trigger a keystroke. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Sea Salt Lemon due to its lower bottom out force, making it easier to type for longer periods. On the other hand, the Foggy Shadow may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on the individual's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Sea Salt Lemon has a longer travel distance compared to the Foggy Shadow. The 0.5 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can affect the overall feel and responsiveness of the switch. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Foggy Shadow, while those who prefer a more traditional and deeper key press may lean towards the Sea Salt Lemon. Ultimately, both switches offer different travel distances to cater to different preferences and needs in typing or gaming.
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 Sea Salt Lemon comes in at $2.80 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 tactile switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch are described as having low-pitched and neutral sound profiles. This means that they feature a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches, making them suitable for most intents and purposes. Ultimately, the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Foggy Shadow is not described with any specific qualities, while the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch is characterized as providing a mild typing experience. This means that the Sea Salt Lemon switch offers a more gentle typing feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics, making it approachable and comfortable for most users.
Overall, both the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch offer a balanced performance with medium weight and buttery smooth typing experiences, respectively. While the Foggy Shadow provides a light tactile bump and the Sea Salt Lemon has a progressive spring and dry-lube design, both switches cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, consider the differences in bottom out force. If you prefer a slightly heavier actuation, the Foggy Shadow with its 63.5g bottom-out force may be more suitable for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch, the Sea Salt Lemon with its 53g bottom-out force may be the better option. Additionally, both switches offer low-pitched sound profiles and neutral typing experiences, making them versatile choices for various typing preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on your personal typing style and preferences, so consider these factors carefully before making your selection.
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