Aflion Foggy Shadow vs. Gateron Silent Ink Black
An in-depth look at the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Gateron Silent Ink Black offer unique features to cater to different preferences. The Foggy Shadow, with its light tactile bump and 63.5g bottom-out force, provides a balanced and tactile typing experience, making it ideal for those who enjoy a bit of feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black appeals to users who prioritize a quiet typing environment, offering a cushioned bottom-out feel and minimal audio feedback. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different preferences based on typing style and environment. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
In comparing the materials used for the housing of the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches, one noticeable difference is the Foggy Shadow's use of polycarbonate for the top housing, while the Silent Ink Black utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend. Polycarbonate's stiffness results in a sharper and crisper sound profile, ideal for users looking for a clear and resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the INK blend used in the Silent Ink Black creates a pointed and higher-pitched sound that is described as clacky, offering a unique auditory sensation for typists.
Another point of comparison between the two switches lies in their bottom housing materials. The Foggy Shadow features a nylon bottom housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing. In contrast, the Silent Ink Black also utilizes Gateron's INK blend for the bottom housing, delivering a similar high-pitched and clacky sound profile that complements the top housing material for a consistent typing experience.
While the top and bottom housings of the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches differ in material composition, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The split in qualities between the top and bottom housings allows for a varied typing experience, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound when a key is released. Whether utilizing polycarbonate or Gateron's proprietary INK blend, both switches provide distinct auditory and tactile sensations that can enhance the overall typing experience for users.
Weight
The Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch both fall under the category of medium-heavy switches in terms of bottom out force. The Foggy Shadow has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, while the Silent Ink Black has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 70 grams. However, the actuation force of the Foggy Shadow is not specified, while the Silent Ink Black has an actuation force of 60 grams. In terms of weight, some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Silent Ink Black for longer typing or gaming sessions, while others may appreciate the heavier feel of the Foggy Shadow for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Silent Ink Black has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Foggy Shadow. The 0.5 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can affect the overall typing experience. The Foggy Shadow offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which may appeal to those looking for a quicker response time, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black provides a bit more depth, which some users may prefer for a more substantial key press feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding travel distance and typing feel.
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 Silent Ink Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Ink Black for $8.35.
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 tactile switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone with a moderate actuation force requirement. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch is known for its muted sound, producing a softer and quieter typing experience. If you prefer a quieter work environment, the Silent Ink Black would be the more suitable option.
Moving on to feel, the Aflion Foggy Shadow switch does not have specific descriptors provided, but given its light tactile bump and medium weight, it likely offers a smooth and balanced typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch is described as silky and polished, offering an exceptionally smooth and refined typing feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel. If you prioritize smoothness in your typing experience, the Silent Ink Black switch would be the preferred choice.
Overall, the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch offer different qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Foggy Shadow provides a low-pitched and neutral sound profile with a light tactile bump, the Silent Ink Black offers a muted sound and silky, polished feel for a quiet and smooth typing experience. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, you can expect distinct results with these two switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch or the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you prefer a light tactile bump with a lower bottom-out force and a low-pitched sound, then the Aflion Foggy Shadow switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a cushioned bottom-out feel with minimal audio feedback and a silky smooth typing experience, then the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch would be more suitable for your needs. Both switches offer unique features and it ultimately depends on what you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch. Ultimately, it's important to consider your typing preferences and environment when making your decision.
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