Aflion Foggy Shadow vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options on the market are the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the HMX Swift. The Foggy Shadow, a tactile switch from Aflion, boasts a light tactile bump and a medium weight of 63.5g bottom-out force, making it a great choice for those looking for balanced performance. On the other hand, the HMX Swift, a linear switch, offers a deeper sound profile with its full nylon housings and a silky smoothness that complements its delicate 42g actuation force. While the Foggy Shadow is categorized as 'Low-pitched' and 'Neutral', the Swift is described as 'Clacky', 'Easy-to-press', 'Feathery', 'Bouncy', and 'Creamy'. Each switch has its unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, but ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your specific needs and typing style. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Spring
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the HMX Swift, it is evident that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound, providing a distinct typing experience for users of both switches. Although they both share this material for the bottom housing, the overall feel and sound of the switches may vary based on other factors such as the key design and spring mechanism.
On the other hand, the top housing of the Foggy Shadow is made of polycarbonate, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound, making it ideal for users who prefer a more distinct typing experience. In contrast, the Swift features a nylon top housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the polycarbonate top housing of the Foggy Shadow. While both materials serve their purpose in enhancing the sound of the switches, the choice between them ultimately depends on the user's preference for sound quality and typing experience.
The difference in top housing materials between the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the HMX Swift is significant in terms of sound characteristics. The polycarbonate top housing of the Foggy Shadow produces a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the nylon top housing of the Swift creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. This distinction showcases how different housing materials can influence the overall typing experience for users. However, despite the different top housing materials, the bottom housing materials of both switches remain consistent with nylon, offering a similar typing feel in terms of depth and sound resonance.Overall, the choice between the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the HMX Swift comes down to personal preference in sound profile and typing experience, as each housing material contributes unique qualities to the overall performance of the switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, it is evident that the Aflion Foggy Shadow requires a stronger bottom out force of 63.5 grams compared to the HMX Swift's 50 grams. This makes the Aflion Foggy Shadow a heavier option in terms of typing pressure. However, the actuation force of the HMX Swift is lighter at 42 grams in comparison to the Foggy Shadow's unknown actuation force. This means that the Swift provides a lighter touch when initiating keystrokes. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods, the HMX Swift may be the better choice. On the other hand, users who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may find the Aflion Foggy Shadow more suitable. Both switches offer different weights that cater to different preferences, with the Aflion Foggy Shadow leaning towards a heavier typing experience and the HMX Swift towards a lighter one.
Travel distance
The Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the HMX Swift linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.9 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. The difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be significant, but those who prefer a slightly deeper key press may opt for the HMX Swift, while those who prefer a quicker, more responsive feel may lean towards the Aflion Foggy Shadow. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing or gaming experience desired.
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 HMX Swift has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Swift for $2.99.
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 comparing the sound of the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, we find that the Foggy Shadow offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, which leans towards a bass-heavy and mellow tone suitable for various purposes. In contrast, the Swift switch stands out with a clacky sound, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, adding a crisp and bright percussive element to typing. The choice between the two switches will ultimately depend on personal preference and the desired sound experience, with the Foggy Shadow providing a more subtle and neutral option while the Swift offers a more distinct and percussive sound.
In terms of feel, the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch does not have a specific description provided, which could indicate a more standard tactile feel without any additional characteristics. On the other hand, the HMX Swift linear switch offers an easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, and creamy typing experience. These qualities suggest that the Swift switch provides a light and effortless typing experience with smooth and buttery sensations, along with a lively spring-like feedback when typing. This makes the Swift switch ideal for users looking for a comfortable and responsive typing experience with minimal finger fatigue.
Taking into consideration the subjective qualities of sound and feel, users looking for a balanced and mellow sound profile coupled with a standard tactile typing experience may opt for the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch. On the other hand, those seeking a distinct and clacky sound with a smooth and buttery typing feel may prefer the HMX Swift linear switch. While the two switches offer different sound and feel experiences, users can expect similar results in terms of overall quality and performance from both Aflion and HMX switches, showcasing the diversity and innovation present in the mechanical keyboard switch market.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, consider the factors that matter most to you. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a light tactile bump for balanced performance, the Foggy Shadow may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a silky smooth feel with a deeper sound profile, the Swift may be more appealing. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing experience, sound profile, and actuation force. Both switches offer unique characteristics, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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