Aflion Foggy Shadow vs. Gazzew U4T
An in-depth look at the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Gazzew U4T switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Gazzew U4T both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Foggy Shadow, from the rapidly rising Aflion brand, boasts a light tactile bump with a 63.5g bottom-out force, striking a balance between tactile feedback and actuation force. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T excels in delivering a harmonious blend of thockiness and sharp tactility, producing a satisfying 'thock' sound profile with assertive tactile feedback. Despite their differences, both switches aim to provide an enjoyable typing experience. 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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 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 17.5mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Gazzew U4T both have unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Foggy Shadow features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharp and clear sound profile that is enhanced by its stiffness. On the other hand, the U4T's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. While both materials aim to provide excellent sound quality, the polycarbonate top housing of the Foggy Shadow may result in a sharper sound compared to the deeper sound produced by the Gazzew blend top housing of the U4T.
In terms of their bottom housing materials, the Foggy Shadow utilizes a nylon bottom housing to create a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softness and sound absorption properties. Similarly, the U4T also uses its proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing to achieve a rich and deep sound profile. Both materials aim to enhance the overall typing experience by providing a satisfying sound profile, but the specific characteristics of nylon may result in a duller and rounder sound compared to the rich and deep sound produced by the Gazzew blend bottom housing of the U4T.
When looking at the overall impact of the different housing materials on the switches, it is important to consider how each material affects the sound both when keys are pressed and when they are released. While the bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, the top housing will influence the sound when the key is released. The unique qualities of the polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing of the Foggy Shadow, as well as the proprietary Gazzew blend top and bottom housing of the U4T, result in distinct typing experiences that cater to different preferences in sound profile.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, we see some similarities and differences. Both switches have an unknown actuation force, meaning you'll get similar results in terms of initial keystroke activation. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Foggy Shadow requires 63.5 grams, while the U4T needs 65 grams, making the U4T slightly heavier. The lighter actuation force of both switches makes them suitable for prolonged typing sessions, while the heavier bottom out forces provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for key press weight and feel.
Travel distance
The Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gazzew U4T tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the U4T has a longer travel distance compared to the Foggy Shadow. A shorter travel distance can offer quicker response times, which may be preferred by gamers or those looking for a more responsive typing experience. On the other hand, a longer travel distance can provide a more substantial keypress feel, which may be favored by those who enjoy a deeper typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference in terms of travel distance 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 Gazzew U4T 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, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone that suits various typing environments. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T boasts a bassy and thocky sound, delivering a satisfyingly deep and rich auditory experience with each key press. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Foggy Shadow leaning towards a more balanced and versatile sound, while the U4T focuses on a more pronounced and tactilely satisfying thocky experience.
Moving on to feel, the Aflion Foggy Shadow lacks specific descriptors for its tactile feel. In contrast, the Gazzew U4T is described as sharp, offering a high feedback intensity with a strong and crisp tactile bump that is easily discernible with every keystroke. The U4T's sharp tactile feedback enhances the typing experience by providing a clear and precise feedback mechanism, ensuring that each press is deliberate and satisfying for the user.
In conclusion, the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Gazzew U4T present distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Foggy Shadow prioritizes a medium-weight tactile bump and a neutral, low-pitched sound profile for a balanced typing experience, the U4T excels in delivering a bassy, thocky sound alongside a sharp tactile feedback for a more pronounced and satisfying typing sensation. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles and preferences, ultimately providing a rewarding mechanical keyboard experience for newcomers diving into the world of customized switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, you should consider your preference for a lighter tactile bump with a medium-weight bottom-out force in the Foggy Shadow, or a more intense and sharp tactile feedback with a slightly higher bottom-out force in the U4T. If you prioritize a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, the Foggy Shadow may be the right choice for you. Alternatively, if you prefer a bassy and thocky sound with a sharp tactile bump, the U4T could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound profile.
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