Aflion Foggy Shadow vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Durock T1 are both popular tactile mechanical keyboard switches, each offering their own unique features. The Foggy Shadow by Aflion boasts a very light tactile bump with a 63.5g bottom-out force, striking a balance between responsiveness and key feel. On the other hand, the Durock T1 provides a comfortable typing experience with a medium bump sensation and a pleasing sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window. While the Foggy Shadow is known for its medium weight and balanced performance, the T1 stands out for its stepped design and polished feel. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Durock T1, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This choice of material results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to polycarbonate's stiffness. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. As such, both the Foggy Shadow and the T1 will likely produce similar sound profiles and aesthetics when it comes to their top housings.
However, the key point of difference lies in the bottom housing materials of the two switches. While the Foggy Shadow features a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature and sound absorption qualities, the T1 also utilizes a nylon bottom housing for similar reasons. This means that the typing experience on both switches will likely result in a more muffled and rounded sound compared to switches with harder plastic bottom housings.
Overall, the split between the top and bottom housing materials will impact how the switch feels and sounds during use. The bottom housing material will have a significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed, while the top housing material will have more of an impact on the sound when the key is released. Despite some differences in housing materials, both the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Durock T1 will provide users with a unique typing experience that combines the properties of polycarbonate and nylon to create a distinct sound profile and feel.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, both switches have an actuation force of None grams, meaning you'll get similar results in terms of triggering a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Foggy Shadow requires 63.5 grams while the T1 requires 67 grams, making the T1 the heavier of the two. The Foggy Shadow is lighter in terms of bottom out force, which is ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time. On the other hand, the T1 provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force, appealing to those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for typing feel and the intended use of the keyboard.
Travel distance
The Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Durock T1 tactile switch boasts a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Durock T1 has the longer travel distance compared to the Foggy Shadow. The 0.5 mm difference might not seem significant, but it can make a difference in how the switch feels when typing or gaming. For those who prefer a slightly deeper press and more cushioned feel, the Durock T1 would be the better option. On the other hand, if you prefer a quicker and more responsive key press, the Aflion Foggy Shadow with its shorter travel distance might be the way to go. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
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 Durock T1 has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the T1 for $4.90.
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, both the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Durock T1 switches are described as having low-pitched and neutral profiles, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for various typing environments. The sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, but overall, you can expect similar results in terms of sound quality from both switches.
When it comes to feel, the Aflion Foggy Shadow switch does not have any specific descriptors provided, while the Durock T1 switch is described as having a stepped, accented, and polished feel. The stepped design of the T1 offers a two-stage tactile experience, providing a mild bump with noticeable pre-travel and post-travel. The accented tactility gives a medium level of feedback that is not overwhelming, creating a pleasant typing sensation. Additionally, the polished finish of the T1 contributes to a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction.
Overall, both the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Durock T1 tactile switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Foggy Shadow provides a light tactile bump with a medium weight, the T1 offers a comfortable typing experience with a stepped, accented, and polished feel. Depending on your preferences for sound and tactile feedback, either switch can be a great choice for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Consider factors such as typing style, keycap preferences, and overall typing experience when deciding between these two switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Aflion Foggy Shadow or the Durock T1 tactile switch, you should keep in mind the specific characteristics of each switch. If you are looking for a lighter tactile bump and a slightly lower bottom-out force, the Foggy Shadow may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more comfortable typing experience with a medium bump and sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window, the T1 could be the switch for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for bottom-out force, tactile feel, and sound profile. Choose the switch that best suits your typing style and enhances your overall mechanical keyboard experience.
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