Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to linear mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Aflion Windy Shadow offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow is praised for its budget-friendly excellence, showcasing a polished and high-pitched sound profile with a bouncy feel during typing. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow stands out with its neutral sound profile and distinctive bounce from the extended spring, providing a comfortable medium-light feel with a low-pitched sound. While both switches offer their own set of characteristics, such as the creamy resonance of the G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the mild neutrality of the Windy Shadow, it ultimately comes down to personal preference 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
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15.4mm long spring
Spring
19.7mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Aflion Windy Shadow feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate leads to a clear and resonant sound, making it a popular choice for switches where sound quality is important. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches that utilize RGB lighting, as it allows the lighting to shine through brightly. The similarities in the top housing material between these two switches suggest that users can expect a similar sound profile and aesthetic appeal when using either of these switches.
On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Windy Shadow differ in their choice of bottom housing material, with the former featuring a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that utilize nylon in the bottom housing. The presence of nylon in the bottom housing of the G Pro 3.0 Yellow implies that users can expect a unique typing experience with a focus on depth and fullness in sound. In contrast, the Windy Shadow's nylon bottom housing suggests a similar sound profile, providing a consistent typing experience across both switches.
When considering the impact of different housing materials on switch sound and feel, it is important to note that the qualities of each material are split between the top and bottom housings of a switch. The bottom housing has a more significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing's impact is more pronounced when a key is released. Therefore, the choice of housing materials in both the top and bottom of a switch can affect the overall typing experience, with differences in material properties leading to variations in sound profile and tactile feedback.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch differ in weight. The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Aflion Windy Shadow, which has an unknown actuation force. When it comes to bottom out force, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow requires 67 grams, while the Aflion Windy Shadow only needs 55 grams. Based on this information, it can be inferred that the Aflion Windy Shadow is the lighter of the two switches. The choice between a lighter or heavier actuation force ultimately depends on personal preference - lighter switches are ideal for longer typing sessions, while heavier switches provide a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Windy Shadow has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the G Pro 3.0 Yellow. Both switches offer a relatively short travel distance, making them suitable for gamers looking for quick response times. However, those who prefer a bit more depth in their key presses may find the G Pro 3.0 Yellow more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of the travel distance that feels most comfortable and responsive during use.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow has an MSRP of $3.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Yellow for $2.78.
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.
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 G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch offers a high-pitched and resonant sound profile that delivers a sharp and crisp typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch provides a more neutral and low-pitched sound, creating a mellow and bass-heavy tone that is suitable for various settings. When it comes to feel, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch is known for its polished and creamy typing experience, offering smooth and refined key travel with reduced friction. In contrast, the Windy Shadow switch provides a mild typing experience that is gentle and approachable to most users.
Overall, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and Aflion Windy Shadow switches offer different sound and feel qualities, both switches provide unique experiences that cater to various preferences. If you prefer a higher-pitched and resonant sound with a polished and creamy typing feel, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a more neutral and low-pitched sound with a mild typing feel, the Windy Shadow switch would be a suitable option. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch or the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a higher-pitched and resonant sound profile, along with a polished and creamy typing experience, then the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, along with a mild typing experience, then the Aflion Windy Shadow switch may be more suited to your preferences. Both switches offer their own unique qualities, so be sure to consider what aspects are most important to you in a keyboard switch before making your final decision.
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