KTT Kang White vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the KTT Kang White and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the KTT Kang White and the Aflion Windy Shadow. The Kang White is a linear switch that is celebrated for its exquisite typing sound and unparalleled smoothness, thanks to its self-lubricating material. Categorized as 'Low-pitched' and 'Neutral', this switch provides a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow is also a linear switch that offers a neutral sound profile with a distinctive bounce from its extended spring. With a 55g bottom-out force, it is comfortably medium-light and falls under the categories of 'Low-pitched', 'Mild', and 'Neutral'. Each switch has its own unique features and advantages, making them both appealing choices for different preferences. 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
19.7mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the KTT Kang White and the Aflion Windy Shadow utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material's stiffness enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced by the switches. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to be more vivid and prominent in the overall aesthetic of the switch. As a result, users can expect a similar sound experience from both switches due to their shared use of polycarbonate in the top housing.
On the other hand, the Kang White and the Windy Shadow differ in their choice of bottom housing material. The Kang White incorporates a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Windy Shadow also features a nylon bottom housing, which similarly contributes to a rounder and duller sound compared to harder plastic materials. While the top housing may predominantly affect the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
In summary, both the KTT Kang White and the Aflion Windy Shadow offer a unique blend of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials to create distinctive sound profiles. While their top housings are identical in material and characteristics, their bottom housings differ slightly in the tone and feel they provide. Ultimately, users can choose between the two switches based on their preference for a sharper and crisper sound (Kang White) or a deeper and fuller sound (Windy Shadow) in their typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Kang White linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, we can see some differences. The Kang White has an actuation force of 45 grams, while the Windy Shadow's actuation force is unknown. However, the Kang White has a bottom out force of 58 grams, slightly heavier than the Windy Shadow's 55 grams. This means that the Kang White may provide a slightly more substantial typing experience compared to the Windy Shadow. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Windy Shadow may be the better option, as its bottom out force is lighter. However, if the actuation force of the Windy Shadow is similar to the Kang White, then users can expect a comparable typing experience in terms of force required. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to individual preference for a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
The KTT Kang White linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Windy Shadow has a shorter travel distance compared to the Kang White. The Kang White's 4.0mm travel distance falls on the more traditional side, while the Windy Shadow's 3.5mm distance is on the shallower end. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Windy Shadow with its shorter travel distance, while those who appreciate a deeper keypress may opt for the Kang White. Despite the difference in travel distance, both switches offer a similar linear typing experience.
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 KTT Kang White comes in at $1.99 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, both the KTT Kang White and Aflion Windy Shadow linear switches are described as having a low-pitched and neutral sound profile. This means that they provide a bass-heavy and mellow tone while also offering a moderate actuation force requirement, suitable for various typing purposes. The Kang White is known for its dazzling typing sound, while the Windy Shadow offers a distinctive bounce due to its extended spring. Ultimately, the sound experience with either of these switches will be pleasant, especially when paired with the right keyboard and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Kang White switch does not have specific descriptors provided, while the Aflion Windy Shadow is described as offering a mild typing experience. This means that the Windy Shadow switch provides a gentle and approachable typing feel, falling in a safe middle-ground zone in terms of its overall qualities. The self-lubricating material of the Kang White switch ensures smoothness during typing, while the Windy Shadow's 55g bottom-out weight provides a comfortable and medium-light typing experience.
Overall, both the KTT Kang White and Aflion Windy Shadow linear switches offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Kang White excels in providing a dazzling typing sound and smoothness, the Windy Shadow stands out for its distinctive bounce and medium-light typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on personal preference in sound, feel, and typing experience. However, both switches are sure to provide a satisfying typing experience for newcomers and mechanical keyboard enthusiasts alike.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a slightly lower bottom-out force and a neutral sound profile, the Aflion Windy Shadow would be a great choice for you. These switches offer a comfortable typing experience with their 55g bottom-out force and distinctive bounce from their extended spring. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a medium bottom-out force and a low-pitched sound profile, the KTT Kang White might be more to your liking. These switches are known for their smooth typing experience and dazzling typing sound. Ultimately, the decision between the Kang White and Windy Shadow will come down to your personal preference in terms of bottom-out force, sound profile, and typing feel.
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