Outemu Green vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Outemu Green and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Green, a clicky switch, and the Aflion Windy Shadow, a linear switch, offer distinct experiences for users. The Outemu Green switch is best known for its clicky sound and tactile feedback, making it a popular choice among typists who enjoy the audible confirmation of key presses. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow switch, emerging as a noteworthy player in the market, provides a neutral sound profile and a smooth key press due to its linear design. With a 55g bottom-out force, the Windy Shadow switches offer a comfortable typing experience without being too heavy. While the Green switch is ideal for those who prefer a clicky typing experience, the Windy Shadow switch appeals to users looking for a quieter and smoother keystroke. 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
65g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
80g
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
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
The Outemu Green and Aflion Windy Shadow both feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which creates a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. However, the differences may lie in the design and aesthetics of each switch, as well as any additional features that may be unique to each brand.
On the other hand, both switches also have nylon bottom housings, which lead to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This difference in material for the bottom housing can impact the overall typing experience, as the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch will be influenced by the qualities of the nylon material.
In conclusion, while the housing materials of the Outemu Green and Aflion Windy Shadow may be similar in terms of polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings, the differences in design, aesthetics, and any unique features between the two switches may provide varying experiences for users. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference and the specific sound profile and typing experience that each individual prefers.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Green clicky switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, it is evident that they have distinct differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Outemu Green clicky switch has a relatively heavy actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a significant push feel for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch has an unknown actuation force but a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams, making it a more medium-light option. Those who enjoy lighter switches for extended typing sessions may prefer the Aflion Windy Shadow, while those seeking a heavier feel may opt for the Outemu Green. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Green clicky switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, it is clear that the Green has a longer travel distance of 4 mm while the Windy Shadow has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Green's 4 mm travel distance offers a bit more depth and tactile feedback compared to the Windy Shadow's 3.5 mm travel distance, which may feel more abrupt to some users. Gamers seeking faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Windy Shadow, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the Outemu Green. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the typing experience desired.
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 Green 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
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Green clicky switch is well-known for its loud and satisfying click, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a more subtle typing experience compared to the Green switch. While the Green switch is more distinctive in its clicky sound, the Windy Shadow switch offers a quieter and smoother typing experience, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer a more understated sound profile.
Moving on to feel, the Outemu Green clicky switch is known for its tactile feedback and pronounced actuation, providing a satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a more tactile response. In contrast, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch is described as offering a mild typing experience with a gentle touch, appealing to users who prefer a smoother and less pronounced feel while typing. The extended spring in the Windy Shadow switch adds a unique bounce to each keystroke, enhancing the overall typing experience for users looking for a comfortable and consistent feel.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Green clicky switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch offer distinct sound and feel profiles, both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Green switch excels in providing a loud and tactile typing experience with its satisfying click, while the Windy Shadow switch offers a quieter and smoother typing experience with its low-pitched sound and gentle feel. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preference for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a heavy clicky switch with 80g bottom-out force and a distinctive typing experience, the Outemu Green switch would be the one to go for. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light linear switch with a 55g bottom-out force and a neutral sound profile, the Aflion Windy Shadow switch would be a better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and bottom-out force. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider what features are most important to you when choosing between the two.
Mentioned in this article
