Aflion Foggy Shadow vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the Aflion Foggy Shadow, a tactile switch, and the Gateron Smoothie, a linear switch, both offering unique features that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. The Foggy Shadow from Aflion boasts a light tactile bump and a 63.5g bottom-out force, striking a balance between tactile feedback and medium weight. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie impresses with its all-POM construction, delivering a thocky sound signature, exceptional smoothness, and a lightweight touch. While the Foggy Shadow is categorized as 'Low-pitched' and 'Neutral', the Smoothie is described as 'Buttery', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', 'Subdued', and 'Silky'. Each switch has its own strengths and appeals to different users' preferences. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Gateron Smoothie both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Foggy Shadow's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the Smoothie's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. While both materials have their own distinct qualities, they both offer a pleasing sound experience for users, albeit in different ways. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the Foggy Shadow's top housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switch.
In terms of their bottom housings, the Foggy Shadow utilizes nylon while the Smoothie uses POM. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and producing a rounder sound. On the other hand, the POM bottom housing of the Smoothie also contributes to a deep and muted sound experience. Despite the difference in materials, both bottom housings provide a similar effect of enhancing the overall sound profile of the switch, catering to users who prefer a quieter typing experience.
When considering the overall impact of the housing materials on the switches, it is clear that the top and bottom housings play a significant role in creating the sound profile. The qualities of each material are split between the top and bottom of the switch, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing influencing the sound when a key is released. Both the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Gateron Smoothie showcase how different housing materials can work together to create a unique and enjoyable typing experience for users.
Weight
The Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which is considered medium-heavy, while its actuation force is unknown. In comparison, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch has an actuation force of 40 grams, with an unknown bottom out force. The Aflion Foggy Shadow is heavier in terms of bottom out force compared to the Gateron Smoothie, making it more suitable for those looking for a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie may be preferable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience, as it has a lower actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
The Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches offer relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm standard. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Foggy Shadow for quicker response times, while those who enjoy a more deliberate key press may prefer the slightly longer travel distance of the Smoothie. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of key press feel and responsiveness.
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 Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie for $2.60.
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 is known for its low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone that suits a variety of preferences. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch offers a thocky sound signature that delivers a deep, rich, and satisfying tone when pressed and released. The Smoothie also presents a low-pitched and subdued sound, creating a dampened yet pleasing auditory experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference, as the Foggy Shadow offers a more neutral sound whereas the Smoothie provides a thocky and subdued tone.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch's specific qualities are not mentioned, leaving room for interpretation based on other factors such as actuation force and tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch is praised for its buttery, creamy, and silky feel, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience akin to gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. These qualities contribute to a seamless and uniform typing sensation, emphasizing comfort and ease during extended typing sessions.
When considering all the available information, it is evident that the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel. While the Foggy Shadow provides a low-pitched and neutral sound with a light tactile bump, the Smoothie delivers a thocky and subdued sound alongside a buttery, creamy, and silky feel that emphasizes smoothness and comfort. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. It is important to consider factors such as actuation force, typing style, and personal comfort to determine which switch aligns best with your preferences and requirements.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, consider your preference for tactile feedback and bottom-out force. If you enjoy a light tactile bump with a medium-heavy bottom-out force, the Foggy Shadow may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and buttery typing experience with a thocky sound signature and a lightweight touch, the Gateron Smoothie could be the perfect fit for your needs. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so take into account your typing style and sound preference before making your decision.
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