Gateron CM vs. Aflion Foggy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the Aflion Foggy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron CM and the Aflion Foggy Shadow mechanical keyboard switches, you are presented with two distinct options to consider. The CM switch stands out for its unique full nylon housing, providing a rich and deep sound signature along with a smooth typing experience thanks to its impeccable factory lube job. With lengthened, dual-staged springs, typing on the CM switch offers a bouncy sensation that some may find enjoyable. On the other hand, the Aflion Foggy Shadow switch offers a light tactile bump and a 63.5g bottom-out force, striking a balance between tactile feedback and typing comfort. While the CM switch is described as 'Buttery', 'Bassy', 'Polished', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', and 'Frictionless', the Foggy Shadow switch falls under the categories of 'Low-pitched' and 'Neutral'. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on your personal preferences and typing style. 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
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CM and the Aflion Foggy Shadow, one can see a noticeable difference in the materials used for the top housing. The CM utilizes a softer nylon material, which absorbs more sound and creates a deeper, fuller sound profile when typing. In contrast, the Foggy Shadow features a stiffer polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. While both materials have their own unique qualities, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate ultimately comes down to the desired sound and feel for the user.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, both the CM and Foggy Shadow opt for the classic nylon material. This material choice provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon's softer properties absorb more sound than harder plastics. With both switches utilizing nylon for the bottom housing, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel. This similarity in material choice showcases how nylon can create a consistent typing experience across different switch models, regardless of other differences in the housing materials.
Overall, the differences in top housing materials between the Gateron CM and Aflion Foggy Shadow highlight the impact that material choice can have on the sound and feel of a keyboard switch. Nylon and polycarbonate offer distinct sound profiles, with nylon providing a deeper, duller sound and polycarbonate offering a sharper, more resonant sound. While both switches share a common nylon bottom housing, showing a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate for the top housing ultimately comes down to personal preference and desired typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CM linear switch and the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch, it is clear that the CM switch is lighter in terms of actuation force at 55 grams, compared to the Foggy Shadow switch which has an unknown actuation force. However, both switches have the same bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making them both medium-heavy in terms of the force required to fully press the keys. The lighter actuation force of the CM switch may be preferred by those who value extended typing or gaming sessions without fatigue, while the heavier bottom out force of both switches provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. In terms of force, while the CM switch is lighter in actuation force, users can expect similar results in terms of bottom out force when compared to the Foggy Shadow switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing experience and force required for key presses.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron CM linear switch and the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch, we can see that the CM has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Foggy Shadow has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. The slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be noticeable to the average user, but for those who prefer a bit more depth in their keypresses, the CM switch might provide a slightly more satisfying feel. Ultimately, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to traditional options, catering to those who prioritize speed and responsiveness in their typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron CM has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CM for $4.25.
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.
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, the Gateron CM linear switch offers a bassy and thocky sound profile with low-pitched tones, resulting in a deep and rich auditory experience during key presses. On the other hand, the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch provides a low-pitched and neutral sound, offering a moderate actuation force requirement and sound profile suitable for various purposes. Both switches deliver a satisfying sound output, but the CM switch may resonate deeper due to its bass-heavy characteristics.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron CM linear switch is known for providing a buttery, polished, and creamy typing experience, thanks to its smooth and refined finish, as well as factory lubrication. Typing on these switches feels effortless and uniform, with a sense of glide and minimal friction. Unfortunately, there is no available information on the tactile feel of the Aflion Foggy Shadow switch. However, based on the provided information on its tactile bump and bottom-out force, it may offer a smooth and balanced typing experience similar to the CM switch.
Overall, the Gateron CM linear switch stands out for its unique nylon housing, deep sound signature, and bouncy typing experience. It offers a buttery, polished, and frictionless feel that enhances the overall typing journey. On the other hand, the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch impresses with its light tactile bump and medium weight, balancing performance and comfort. While each switch offers its distinct qualities in sound and feel, both promise a premium typing experience tailored to different preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on personal preferences for sound depth, tactile feedback, and typing feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron CM linear switch or the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you are looking for a smoother, bouncy typing experience with a rich and deep sound profile, then the Gateron CM switch with its full nylon housing and impeccable factory lube job might be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light tactile bump and a balanced performance with a medium weight feel, then the Aflion Foggy Shadow switch could be the ideal switch for your typing needs. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider how you like your typing experience to guide your decision-making process. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on what attributes you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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