Outemu Cream Blue vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cream Blue 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 Outemu Cream Blue, a clicky switch, and the Aflion Windy Shadow, a linear switch. The Cream Blue switch is renowned for its satisfying click sound and tactile feedback, making it a favorite among typists and gamers alike. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow switch from Aflion is making waves in the market with its neutral sound profile and smooth linear feel. With a bottom-out weight of 55g, the Windy Shadows provide a comfortable typing experience without being too heavy. While the Cream Blue offers a more audible and tactile typing experience, the Windy Shadow provides a quieter and smoother 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
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Spring
19.7mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Cream Blue and the Aflion Windy Shadow both feature nylon bottom housings, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The relatively softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. On the other hand, the Cream Blue utilizes a nylon top housing, while the Windy Shadow features a polycarbonate top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Windy Shadow produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature and clear translucency, making it ideal for use with RGB lighting.
In terms of sound production, the choice of housing material plays a significant role in determining the overall typing experience. The Cream Blue's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Similarly, the Windy Shadow's nylon bottom housing also results in a similar sound profile, creating a consistent typing experience between the two switches. However, when it comes to the top housing, the polycarbonate material of the Windy Shadow produces a clearer and more resonant sound when compared to the Cream Blue's nylon top housing.
Ultimately, the differences in housing materials between the Outemu Cream Blue and the Aflion Windy Shadow lead to distinct sound profiles and typing experiences. While both switches feature nylon bottom housings that create a deeper and fuller sound, the choice of top housing material sets them apart. The Cream Blue's nylon top housing results in a duller and rounder sound, whereas the Windy Shadow's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. Whether you prefer a softer, fuller sound or a clearer, more resonant sound, both switches offer unique qualities based on their distinct housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, it is apparent that the Cream Blue requires a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Windy Shadow's unknown actuation force. However, the Windy Shadow has a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams, while the Cream Blue has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams. In terms of weight, the Windy Shadow can be considered lighter overall, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods. On the other hand, the Cream Blue provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force, which some users may find more satisfying. Whether one prefers a lighter or heavier switch ultimately depends on personal preference and the typing experience they desire.
Travel distance
The Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is longer than the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch with a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Cream Blue offers a slightly deeper press compared to the Windy Shadow. The Cream Blue's 4.0mm travel distance is more traditional, providing users with a familiar key press feeling. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow's 3.5mm travel distance falls on the shallower end, making it a preferred choice for those seeking a quicker response time, such as gamers. It ultimately comes down to personal preference, with the Cream Blue offering a longer, more substantial press and the Windy Shadow providing a quicker, more responsive feel.
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 Outemu Cream Blue comes in at $3.10 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
The Cream Blue and Windy Shadow switches offer different subjective qualities when it comes to sound and feel. The Cream Blue switch, although lacking a specific sound descriptor, is known for its unique properties. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow switch is praised for its low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone with a moderate actuation force requirement. In terms of feel, the Cream Blue's tactile feel is unknown, while the Windy Shadow switch is described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Overall, while the Cream Blue and Windy Shadow switches may yield different sound and feel experiences, both switches are sure to provide a high-quality typing experience, catering to a variety of preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch or the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a clicky switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams and are not concerned about sound level, the Cream Blue may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams and enjoy a low-pitched, neutral sound profile, the Windy Shadow may be more suitable. Remember to take into account factors such as sound, feel, and typing experience when making your decision. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Mentioned in this article
