Aflion Foggy Shadow vs. Gateron Ink Yellow
An in-depth look at the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Gateron Ink Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch, you'll find yourself deciding between two distinct typing experiences. The Foggy Shadow, a tactile switch from Aflion, offers a light tactile bump and a 63.5g bottom-out force, providing a balanced and medium-weight feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch boasts a shorter travel distance, making it ideal for those seeking a typing experience that falls between a laptop keyboard and a standard mechanical keyboard. While the Foggy Shadow is categorized as 'Low-pitched' and 'Neutral', the Ink Yellow is labeled as 'Neutral', 'Clacky', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. Each switch has its own unique characteristics and benefits, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Gateron Ink Yellow, it is clear that both switches offer unique sound profiles based on their top housings. The Foggy Shadow's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffer nature, while the Ink Yellow's proprietary INK blend top housing provides a pointed and high-pitched but not overly sharp sound. Both materials contribute to a satisfying typing experience, with the Foggy Shadow offering a more resonant sound and the Ink Yellow a more clacky sound.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Foggy Shadow's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing. Similarly, the Ink Yellow's proprietary INK blend bottom housing also contributes to the switch's overall sound profile, providing a pointed and high-pitched sound that complements the top housing. Both switches offer a unique combination of top and bottom housings that work together to create a well-balanced sound.
Overall, while the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Gateron Ink Yellow may have different housing materials for their top and bottom housings, they both aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with distinct sound profiles. The top housing of each switch plays a significant role in the sound produced when typing, with the materials affecting the sharpness and pitch of the sound. The bottom housing, on the other hand, influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Despite their differences, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in typing sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch to the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch, one noticeable difference is in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Foggy Shadow has an actuation force of None grams, meaning it does not require a specific force to trigger a keystroke, while the Ink Yellow has an actuation force of 60 grams. Both switches have a medium-heavy bottom out force, with the Foggy Shadow at 63.5 grams and the Ink Yellow at 67 grams. This means that the Ink Yellow is slightly heavier in terms of actuation force compared to the Foggy Shadow. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Foggy Shadow for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the slightly heavier actuation force of the Ink Yellow. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either switch, you can expect a consistent travel distance of 3.5 mm from the top to the bottom. This uniformity in travel distance can provide a consistent typing experience for users who prefer either switch. Additionally, the equal travel distance of both switches ensures that users will get similar results in terms of key feel and actuation, making them suitable choices for those who value consistency in their typing 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 Gateron Ink Yellow has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Yellow for $7.35.
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 considering sound, both the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Gateron Ink Yellow switches are classified under a neutral sound profile. This means they offer a moderate sound output that is suitable for various environments and preferences. However, the Foggy Shadow has a low-pitched sound, giving it a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to the Ink Yellow which is described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound. Ultimately, the sound of each switch will also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Aflion Foggy Shadow does not have specific descriptors provided, leaving it somewhat ambiguous. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Yellow is described as providing a mild and polished typing experience. This means that the Ink Yellow switch offers a gentle and smooth keypress with reduced friction, leading to a refined typing feel that falls in a safe, middle-ground zone for most users.
In conclusion, both the Aflion Foggy Shadow and Gateron Ink Yellow switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. While the Foggy Shadow provides a light tactile bump and low-pitched sound, the Gateron Ink Yellow offers a shorter travel distance and a smoother, clacky typing experience. Depending on whether you prefer a more bass-heavy tactile bump or a snappier keypress, both switches can deliver satisfying results in their respective areas, leading to a satisfactory typing experience for newcomers to the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a light tactile bump with a medium-weight feel, the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch would be a great choice for you. However, if you prefer a shorter travel and a smooth, clacky typing experience, then the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and the specific feel and sound profile that you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch. Consider the characteristics of each switch carefully to find the one that best matches your needs and enhances your overall typing experience.
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