Kailh Box White vs. Aflion Foggy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the Aflion Foggy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box White and the Aflion Foggy Shadow present intriguing options. The Box White is a clicky switch that delivers maximum audio feedback, reminiscent of stepping on autumn leaves with its crunchy sound and accented tactility. On the other hand, the Foggy Shadow from Aflion is a tactile switch known for its light tactile bump and medium weight, highlighting Aflion's commitment to balanced performance. While the Box White offers a more resonant and high-pitched typing experience, the Foggy Shadow provides a lower-pitched and more neutral feel. Both switches have their unique characteristics that may appeal to different preferences. 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
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Kailh Box White and the Aflion Foggy Shadow feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when typing. This is because polycarbonate is a stiff plastic that enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting, as the light can shine through the housing for a visually appealing effect. Despite having identical top housings, the two switches may still have subtle differences in sound and feel due to other factors such as stem design or spring weight.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Box White and the Foggy Shadow utilize nylon, a classic switch housing material known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is softer compared to polycarbonate, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. This difference in housing material for the bottom of the switch can impact the overall typing experience, with the bottom housing contributing more to the bottom-out sound and feel while the top housing has a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key. Despite sharing the same nylon bottom housing material, the switches may still have unique characteristics based on other design elements.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in a mechanical switch can significantly affect the sound and feel of typing. The combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in the Kailh Box White and Aflion Foggy Shadow switches highlights how the specific properties of each material contribute to the overall typing experience. While both switches may produce similar sharp and crisp sound profiles due to their polycarbonate top housings, the differences in bottom housing material could lead to variations in the depth and fullness of the sound when typing on each switch. Ultimately, the housing materials play a crucial role in determining the overall feel and sound characteristics of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
The Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch have notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Box White has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the Foggy Shadow's actuation force is unknown. However, the Box White has a bottom out force of 60 grams, slightly lighter than the Foggy Shadow's 63.5 grams. The Box White provides a medium typing experience, while the Foggy Shadow leans towards the medium-heavy side. Users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions may find the Box White more suitable, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel might prefer the Foggy Shadow. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming increasingly popular in the market. Gamers may appreciate the faster response time provided by a shorter travel distance, making the Box White a favorable option in that regard. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the slightly longer travel distance of the Foggy Shadow switch. Ultimately, the difference of 0.1 mm in travel distance may be negligible for some users, as both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to more traditional options.
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 White comes in at $2.76 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 Kailh Box White switch offers a resonant and high-pitched clicking noise reminiscent of stepping on crispy autumn leaves, providing a sharp and immersive auditory experience. In contrast, the Aflion Foggy Shadow switch produces a more low-pitched and neutral sound, ideal for those looking for a mellow and bass-heavy tone. Depending on personal preference and setup, users can choose between the crisp sound of the Box White or the more subdued sound of the Foggy Shadow.
Moving on to feel, the Kailh Box White switch boasts a polished and smooth typing experience, thanks to its refined finish and reduced friction. On the other hand, information about the tactile feel of the Aflion Foggy Shadow switch is not provided. However, with a light tactile bump and a 63.5g bottom-out force, it is likely to offer a balanced and comfortable typing experience for those who prefer tactile switches.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box White clicky switch excels in producing a resonant and high-pitched clicking sound while offering a polished and smooth typing feel. On the other hand, the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch is characterized by a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, and while information on its tactile feel is limited, it promises a light tactile bump and medium weight that strikes a balance for a satisfying typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing styles and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch, consider your typing preferences. If you enjoy a loud and clicky typing experience with a medium actuation force, the Box White is the way to go. The satisfying "stepping on autumn leaves" sound and accentuated tactility will enhance your typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter tactile bump with a slightly heavier bottom-out force for a balanced performance, the Foggy Shadow is an excellent choice. Its lower-pitched sound profile and light tactile bump offer a more subdued typing experience without compromising on performance. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize audible feedback and strong tactility or prefer a quieter and smoother typing experience.
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