Aflion Foggy Shadow vs. Gazzew U4
An in-depth look at the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Gazzew U4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Gazzew U4 are both compelling options to consider. The Foggy Shadow from Aflion boasts a light tactile bump and a 63.5g bottom-out force, striking a balance between responsiveness and comfort. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 offers a sharp tactile bump and a plush bottom-out sensation, emphasizing a silent typing experience. While the Foggy Shadow is known for its neutrality and medium weight, the U4 is characterized by its muted sound profile and sharp tactile feedback. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel 14mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Gazzew U4 both use unique materials for their top and bottom housings. The Foggy Shadow features a polycarbonate top housing, which provides a sharp, crisp sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the U4 uses a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, known for its deep and rich sound profile attributed to its softness. While both materials offer distinct sound characteristics, they cater to different preferences – polycarbonate for a clearer and resonant sound, and the Gazzew blend for a more mellow and rounded sound.
In terms of bottom housings, the Foggy Shadow employs a nylon material, which gives a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softness and sound absorption properties. Comparatively, the U4 features the same proprietary Gazzew blend material for its bottom housing, providing a similar rich and deep sound profile as the top housing. Both materials aim to enhance the typing experience by creating a unique sound signature, making each switch stand out in its own way. Despite their differences, they both offer a tactile and satisfying typing experience that appeals to mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Overall, the choice between the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Gazzew U4 ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile. The polycarbonate and nylon materials in the Foggy Shadow offer a sharper and fuller sound, while the Gazzew blend in the U4 delivers a richer and deeper sound. Whether you prefer a crisp and resonant typing experience or a mellow and rounded one, both switches provide unique qualities that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, both switches excel in providing users with a customized and enjoyable typing experience based on their individual sound preferences.
Weight
In comparing the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, it is clear that the actuation force and bottom out force differ between the two. The Aflion Foggy Shadow has no stated actuation force, while its bottom out force is 63.5 grams, making it a medium-heavy option. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, placing it in the medium category. Both switches offer a tactile typing experience, but the Foggy Shadow is slightly heavier in terms of bottom out force compared to the U4. When considering weight, individuals may prefer a lighter option for longer typing sessions, while those seeking a more substantial feel may opt for a switch with a heavier force requirement. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, we see that the Foggy Shadow has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the U4 has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both of these switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them popular choices for those seeking faster response times, such as gamers. The slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be noticeable to everyone, but for those who prefer a slightly deeper key press, the U4 may be the preferred choice. In general, both switches offer a similar experience due to their comparable travel distances, providing a satisfying typing experience for users.
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 Gazzew U4 comes in at $6.50 per 10 switches.
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 Aflion Foggy Shadow offers a low-pitched and neutral profile, with a bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 provides a muted and low-pitched sound that minimizes noise, making it ideal for those looking for a whisper-quiet typing experience. Depending on personal preferences and setup, both switches will deliver pleasant, yet distinct auditory feedback.
Moving on to the feel, the Aflion Foggy Shadow does not have specific descriptors mentioned, indicating a more subtle tactile experience. In contrast, the Gazzew U4 is known for its sharp tactile bump, offering a strong and crisp feedback with each keypress. If you prefer a more intense tactile sensation, the U4 may be the better choice for you.
In conclusion, both the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Gazzew U4 bring unique qualities to the table. The Foggy Shadow excels in providing a balanced and medium-weight typing experience, with a low-pitched and neutral sound profile. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 stands out with its sharp and exhilarating tactile feedback, coupled with a muted and quiet sound profile. Depending on your preferences for typing feel and sound, either switch can deliver a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer quality performance, ensuring a pleasant typing experience for newcomers in the mechanical keyboard world.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, consider the following: If you prefer a light tactile bump and a medium-heavy bottom-out force, along with a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, the Foggy Shadow may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump with a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation, and prefer a muted sound profile with a low-pitched tone, the Gazzew U4 switch may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the specific feel and sound characteristics that best complement your typing experience.
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