Kailh Box Jade vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Jade and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Jade and Aflion Windy Shadow offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The Box Jade is ideal for those seeking a medium-heavy typing feel with a satisfying clicky sound profile and pronounced tactility. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow from Aflion is a linear switch that provides a neutral sound profile and a distinctive bounce from its extended spring. While the Box Jade offers a high-pitched, accented, invigorating typing experience, the Windy Shadow falls on the low-pitched, mild, and neutral end of the spectrum. Choosing between these switches ultimately comes down to personal preference based on whether you prefer the clicky feel of the Box Jade or the smooth linear action of the Windy Shadow. 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
55g
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
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
19.7mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Jade and the Aflion Windy Shadow both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. This results in a clear and resonant sound that is especially useful for RGB lighting effects. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of these switches ensures a visually appealing and acoustically pleasing typing experience.
In terms of bottom housing, both switches utilize nylon, a classic switch housing material that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on these switches. The nylon bottom housing contributes significantly to the overall sound and feel of the switch, enhancing the typing experience for users looking for a more satisfying sound and tactile feedback.
While both switches share similarities in their housing materials, the distribution of these materials between the top and bottom housing impacts the overall typing experience. The qualities of the bottom housing have a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This balance between the top and bottom housing materials ensures a well-rounded and enjoyable typing experience for users of both the Kailh Box Jade and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch have some key differences. The Box Jade has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Windy Shadow, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Windy Shadow has a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams compared to the Box Jade's 60 grams. Both switches fall into the medium range in terms of total force required, but the Box Jade is slightly heavier overall. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Windy Shadow, while those looking for a more substantial push feel may prefer the Box Jade. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, it is clear that the Box Jade has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm compared to the Windy Shadow's 3.5 mm. While the difference in travel distance is minimal, it may be noticeable to some users. The Box Jade offers a slightly deeper press, which may provide a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a bit more depth. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow's slightly shorter travel distance may appeal to users who value a quicker response time and a more immediate tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Aflion Windy 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 Windy Shadow for $3.91.
The Kailh Box Jade comes in at $5.50 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 Kailh Box Jade clicky switch is known for its high-pitched and crunchy sound profile, providing a sharp and crisp click with each key press. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound, creating a more bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for various environments. The choice between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile – whether you prefer a sharper click or a more mellow tone.
In regards to feel, the Kailh Box Jade switch is characterized by its accented and invigorating tactile feedback, offering a medium level of tactility that is not overwhelming but still provides a satisfying typing experience. In comparison, the Aflion Windy Shadow switch provides a mild typing experience, with a gentler feel that is approachable to most users. Depending on whether you prefer a more pronounced tactile bump or a softer typing feel, your decision between the two switches may vary.
Overall, the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. The Box Jade provides a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound and accentuated tactility, while the Windy Shadow offers a more neutral sound profile and a mild typing experience. Choosing between these two switches will depend on whether you prioritize a sharp, crisp click and invigorating tactile feedback, or a mellow, neutral sound and gentle typing feel. Ultimately, both switches are of high quality and will provide a satisfying typing experience, so you can expect similar results in terms of overall performance.
Conclusion
Therefore, when deciding between the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a medium-heavy typing experience with crisp clicks and tactile bumps, the Box Jade would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a neutral sound profile with a distinctive bounce and a medium-light typing feel, the Windy Shadow linear switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches boils down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you value most.
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