Gateron Mini i vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mini i and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Mini i and the Aflion Windy Shadow offer distinct typing experiences. The Gateron Mini i is a tactile switch that provides gentle tactility with a fairly muted sound profile, perfect for office settings where quiet professionalism is key. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow is a linear switch known for its neutral sound profile and distinctive bounce from its extended spring. With a 55g bottom-out, it offers a comfortable medium-light typing experience. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences and needs. 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
40g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Spring
19.7mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Mini i and the Aflion Windy Shadow both utilize nylon for their bottom housing, resulting in a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound overall. However, where they differ is in their top housing material, with the Mini i featuring nylon and the Windy Shadow employing polycarbonate. The polycarbonate top housing of the Windy Shadow creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the Mini i's nylon top housing.
While both switches share the same nylon bottom housing material, the contrast comes in the top housing material. The Mini i's nylon top housing provides a softer and more muted sound profile, while the Aflion Windy Shadow’s polycarbonate top housing offers a clearer and more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the Windy Shadow that the Mini i does not possess.
In terms of functionality, the housing materials of the Gateron Mini i and Aflion Windy Shadow have distinct impacts on the typing experience. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, with both switches offering a similar experience due to their shared nylon material. On the other hand, the top housing material influences the sound produced when a key is released, with the Mini i's nylon top housing producing a deeper sound compared to the crisper sound generated by the polycarbonate top housing of the Windy Shadow. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for sound profile and aesthetic considerations related to RGB lighting.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, it is evident that the Mini i has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Windy Shadow's unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the Mini i is slightly heavier at 50 grams, while the Windy Shadow has a bottom out force of 55 grams. The Mini i offers a lighter typing experience overall, making it ideal for users looking for a more effortless typing feel. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow provides a slightly firmer typing experience, which may be preferred by those seeking a bit more resistance and tactile feedback. Both switches offer unique benefits based on their different actuation and bottom out forces, catering to users with varying preferences.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, slightly shorter than the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch with a travel distance of 3.5 mm. While the difference in travel distance is minimal, it can still affect the typing experience. Gamers may prefer the Gateron Mini i for its slightly shorter travel distance, allowing for quicker response times. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Aflion Windy Shadow with a slightly longer travel distance. Overall, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, and the choice between the two ultimately depends on individual preference for keypress depth.
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 Gateron Mini i comes in at $6.00 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for various settings whether at home or work. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch provides a low-pitched sound that is more bass-heavy and mellow, also classified as having a neutral sound profile. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable typing experience without being overly loud or distracting, offering users the ability to focus on their work without causing disruption to others in shared spaces.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch is described as bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, snappy, subtle, and stepped. These qualities indicate that the switch provides a lively and responsive typing experience with gentle resistance and a light typing feel. Similarly, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch is categorized as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Both switches aim to enhance the overall typing experience by providing a comfortable and low-impact feel that reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch have some differences in sound profiles, they both offer a comfortable and satisfying typing experience suitable for a wide range of users. The Gateron Mini i excels in providing a more neutral sound profile with a bouncy and subtle feel, whereas the Aflion Windy Shadow offers a low-pitched sound with a mild typing experience. Ultimately, both switches aim to cater to individuals seeking a pleasant and efficient typing experience, ensuring that users can enjoy long hours of typing without sacrificing comfort or performance.
Conclusion
Therefore, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Mini i tactile switch or the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, it is important to assess your typing environment and preferences. If you require a lightweight switch with gentle tactility and a fairly muted sound profile, ideal for office use or quiet settings, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light switch with a neutral sound profile and a distinctive bounce from its extended spring, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch could be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific requirements of your typing experience.
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