Aflion Foggy Shadow vs. Wuque Studio WS Red
An in-depth look at the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Wuque Studio WS Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Wuque Studio WS Red offer two distinct typing experiences. The Foggy Shadow, a tactile switch from Aflion, provides a light tactile bump with a 63.5g bottom-out force, striking a balance between responsiveness and comfort. On the other hand, the WS Red from Wuque Studio is a linear switch with a bouncy typing experience thanks to its 22mm double-stage spring. Although it requires a heavier actuation force, it delivers a satisfying and substantial typing feel. 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
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Wuque Studio WS Red, we see that both switches use nylon for the bottom housing. This means that typing on switches with nylon bottom housings in both models will result in a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to the softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the top housings of the two switches differ, with the Foggy Shadow featuring a polycarbonate top housing and the WS Red using a nylon top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Foggy Shadow creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, while the nylon top housing of the WS Red produces a deeper and fuller sound profile.
One key similarity between the Foggy Shadow and the WS Red is that both switches prioritize the sound profile created by their nylon bottom housings, as nylon is known for its ability to produce a deep and full sound. However, the difference lies in the top housing material used. The Foggy Shadow's polycarbonate top housing leads to a clearer and resonant sound, especially when paired with RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the WS Red's nylon top housing produces a duller and rounder sound, absorbing more sound with its softer plastic composition.
Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Foggy Shadow and the Wuque Studio WS Red may come down to personal preference in sound profile. The Foggy Shadow offers a sharper and crisper sound thanks to its polycarbonate top housing, creating a more resonant experience, especially when combined with RGB lighting. In contrast, the WS Red provides a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon top housing, creating a rounder and duller sound profile. Both switches share the benefits of a nylon bottom housing, impacting the overall sound profile and feel of typing on these switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, it is clear that they both have a medium-heavy bottom out force. The Foggy Shadow has an actuation force of None grams, while the WS Red also has an actuation force of None grams. This means that the force required to trigger a keystroke is unknown for both switches. However, the Foggy Shadow has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, slightly lighter than the WS Red's bottom out force of 67 grams. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, the Foggy Shadow may be the better option. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may lean towards the WS Red. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing feel and force.
Travel distance
The Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the WS Red linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Foggy Shadow tactile switch. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for faster response times. However, individuals who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the switch with the longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for keypress depth and responsiveness.
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 Wuque Studio WS Red comes in at $3.50 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 tactile switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a mellow and bass-heavy tone that is suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch's sound profile is unknown, so it's difficult to directly compare the two in this aspect. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Foggy Shadow provides a very light tactile bump and a 63.5g bottom-out force, striking a balance between responsiveness and typing comfort. Meanwhile, the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch features a 22mm double-stage spring, offering a bouncy and responsive typing experience with a heavier actuation force that adds weight to each keystroke. Without specific information on the feel of the Foggy Shadow, it's challenging to directly compare the two switches in this aspect.
Overall, the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch each have unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Foggy Shadow stands out for its light tactile bump, medium weight, and low-pitched, neutral sound profile, providing a balanced typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Red offers a bouncy feel, heavier actuation force, and a classic sound signature, delivering a satisfying and substantial typing feel. Depending on your preference for tactile feedback and typing experience, both switches offer distinct characteristics that can enhance your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
Therefore, when choosing between the Aflion Foggy Shadow tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, consider your preference for a lighter tactile bump and medium weight in the Foggy Shadow versus a bouncy and responsive typing experience with a heavier actuation force in the WS Red. If you prioritize a low-pitched sound with a neutral feel, the Foggy Shadow may be more to your liking. On the other hand, if you are looking for a classic material blend with a satisfyingly substantial typing feel, the WS Red could be the better choice for you. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall experience you are seeking from your mechanical keyboard switches.
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