Aflion Foggy Shadow vs. TTC Silent Frozen (V2)
An in-depth look at the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
In the world of mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) stand out as two distinct options catering to different preferences. The Aflion Foggy Shadow offers a light tactile bump with a 63.5g bottom-out force, providing a balanced performance for those who enjoy tactile feedback. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) is renowned for its extremely quiet sound profile and smooth, pillowy feel, making it ideal for those seeking a more subtle typing experience. While the Foggy Shadow leans towards a tactile typing sensation, the Silent Frozen (V2) offers a linear option for those who prefer a quieter and smoother keystroke. 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
39g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Silver white spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2), it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it a suitable choice for switches incorporating RGB lighting. However, the key difference lies in the bottom housing material, with the Foggy Shadow employing nylon for a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Silent Frozen (V2) continues with polycarbonate for consistency in sound characteristics.
The Foggy Shadow's nylon bottom housing offers a unique typing experience characterized by a deeper and fuller sound that is achieved through the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound compared to stiffer plastics. In contrast, the Silent Frozen (V2)'s polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the sharp, higher-pitched, and crisp sound profile associated with polycarbonate, contributing to a clear and resonant typing sound. While nylon provides a duller and rounder sound, polycarbonate offers a more defined and precise acoustic response, highlighting the impact of housing materials on the overall typing experience.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in a switch plays a crucial role in determining the sound and feel of typing. By using different materials for the top and bottom housings, the characteristics of each material are divided between the press and release actions of the key, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing affecting the sound upon key release. Whether utilizing polycarbonate or nylon for the housing, understanding the distinct qualities of each material allows for a tailored typing experience that meets individual preferences for sound and tactile feedback.
Weight
In comparing the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch, it is evident that their actuation and bottom out forces differ significantly. The Aflion Foggy Shadow has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch, while its actuation force is not specified. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switch has a lighter actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams. The lighter actuation force of the Silent Frozen (V2) switch makes it easier to trigger keystrokes, providing a smoother typing experience, while the heavier bottom out force of the Foggy Shadow switch offers a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on the user's preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that both switches provide a similar level of keypress feedback and actuation feel. With the same travel distance, users can expect a consistent typing experience whether they choose the Foggy Shadow or the Silent Frozen (V2) switch. These switches offer a moderate travel distance that strikes a balance between typing comfort and speed. When comparing these two switches, users can expect similar results in terms of keypress feel and performance, as they both offer the same travel distance.
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 TTC Silent Frozen (V2) has an MSRP of $8.61 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Frozen (V2) for $5.33.
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 Foggy Shadow switch offers a low-pitched and neutral profile, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone that suits various typing environments. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen (V2) switch is characterized by a thocky, low-pitched, and muted sound, creating a deep, rich, and satisfying typing experience while keeping noise levels to a minimum. Both switches deliver a unique auditory experience, with the Foggy Shadow offering a more balanced tone and the Silent Frozen (V2) providing a satisfyingly quiet typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Foggy Shadow's tactile feedback and overall typing experience are not clearly described. In contrast, the Silent Frozen (V2) switch is characterized as creamy, buttery, feathery, subtle, and polished. This means that users can expect a smooth, effortless, and light typing sensation with reduced finger fatigue and increased comfort during extended typing sessions. The Silent Frozen (V2) switch prioritizes a refined and sleek typing experience, highlighting the importance of smooth key travel and reduced friction when using the switch.
Considering all available information, the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch offers a unique blend of light tactile feedback and a neutral, low-pitched sound profile, perfect for users looking for a balanced typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch prioritizes extreme quietness, super smoothness, and a pillowy feel, providing a satisfyingly quiet and smooth typing experience. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Foggy Shadow focusing on tactile feedback and balanced performance, while the Silent Frozen (V2) emphasizes a quiet and smooth typing experience. Ultimately, users can expect to receive excellent performance and unique qualities from both switches, tailored to meet their individual preferences and typing needs.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch, consider the factors that matter most to you. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom-out force with a light tactile bump and a low-pitched, neutral sound profile, the Foggy Shadow may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light bottom-out force with a smooth, silent, thocky sound profile, along with a creamy, buttery, feathery, subtle, and polished typing feel, then the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and priorities when it comes to typing experience and sound profile in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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