Kailh Box Royal vs. Aflion Foggy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Royal and the Aflion Foggy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Kailh Box Royal and the Aflion Foggy Shadow mechanical keyboard switches, it is clear that they both offer unique advantages for different preferences. The Box Royal is known for its sharp and aggressive tactility, making it ideal for those who enjoy a pronounced tactile bump and a higher pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Aflion Foggy Shadow is celebrated for its light tactile bump and medium weight, providing a balanced performance with a lower pitched sound profile. While the Box Royal may be favored by those seeking a more intense tactile experience, the Foggy Shadow caters to users looking for a smoother keystroke with a more neutral sound. 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box Royal and the Aflion Foggy Shadow, it is evident that the Box Royal utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housings, while the Foggy Shadow incorporates polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. The use of nylon in both the top and bottom housings of the Box Royal provides a deep and full sound profile, thanks to its soft and sound-absorbing properties. On the other hand, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the Foggy Shadow results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile from the polycarbonate top housing, while still maintaining a deep and fuller sound from the nylon bottom housing.
The contrast between the housing materials of the Kailh Box Royal and the Aflion Foggy Shadow is further highlighted in their impact on the overall typing experience. The Box Royal's nylon top and bottom housings create a duller and rounder sound when pressing down on the switch, as well as when releasing a key. In comparison, the Foggy Shadow's polycarbonate top housing contributes to a more clear and resonant sound upon key release, while the nylon bottom housing still maintains a deeper and fuller sound upon key press. This results in a unique typing experience for each switch, with the material of the top housing playing a significant role in the sound produced.
Despite their differences, both the Kailh Box Royal and the Aflion Foggy Shadow showcase the impact that housing materials can have on the sound profile of a switch. While the Box Royal's nylon top and bottom housings offer a consistent deep and full sound profile, the Foggy Shadow's combination of polycarbonate and nylon creates a more dynamic sound experience with a sharper and clearer tone. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the specific sound profile and typing feel that an individual prefers, with each housing material contributing unique characteristics to the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch, it is evident that the Box Royal is the lighter of the two with an actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Foggy Shadow, which has an unknown actuation force. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Box Royal requiring 70 grams and the Foggy Shadow needing 63.5 grams. The difference in actuation force may result in a slightly lighter typing experience with the Box Royal, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Foggy Shadow may provide a more substantial typing feel due to its higher actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing force and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Royal tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance could potentially make the Box Royal feel slightly more responsive than the Foggy Shadow. Those who prefer a more abrupt keypress may lean towards the shorter travel distance of the Foggy Shadow, while those who enjoy a bit more depth in their keystrokes may opt for the Box Royal due to its longer travel distance. Ultimately, both switches offer a relatively similar travel distance, so users can expect similar results in terms of typing or gaming experience.
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 Kailh Box Royal comes in at $6.25 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
The Kailh Box Royal switch offers a high-pitched sound profile with a sharp and crisp feedback due to its binary tactility, making each keypress feel aggressive and distinct. On the other hand, the Aflion Foggy Shadow switch produces a low-pitched sound with a light tactile bump, striking a balance between a mellow tone and medium weight actuation force. While the Box Royal emphasizes a strong tactile bump, the Foggy Shadow focuses on a more subtle and smooth tactile experience.
Overall, the Kailh Box Royal and Aflion Foggy Shadow switches provide contrasting tactile and auditory experiences. If you prefer a sharper and more intense tactile feedback along with a higher-pitched sound, the Box Royal would be a suitable choice. Conversely, if you favor a lighter tactile bump and a more bass-heavy, mellow sound, the Foggy Shadow switch would be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch, you should consider the level of tactility you prefer. If you enjoy a sharp, aggressive tactility and a higher-pitched sound profile, then the Box Royal would be the ideal choice for you. However, if you prefer a lighter tactile bump and a more neutral or low-pitched sound profile, the Foggy Shadow may be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for tactility, sound, and feel in order to enhance your typing experience with the perfect switch for your needs.
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