Dareu Aqua vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Aqua and the Aflion Windy Shadow both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Dareu Aqua stands out with its super light 37g actuation force, giving it a chirpy and clacky sound signature that is easy to press and feels feathery. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow provides a neutral sound profile with a distinctive bounce from its extended spring, all while offering a medium-light 55g bottom-out. If you prefer a lighter touch and enjoy a chirpy sound, the Dareu Aqua may be the switch for you. However, if you are looking for a neutral sound profile and a comfortable medium-light switch, the Aflion Windy Shadow could be your best choice. 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
37g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Spring
19.7mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Dareu Aqua and the Aflion Windy Shadow feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the housing creates a more clear and resonant sound due to its stiffness. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, despite using the same material for their top housings, the Aqua and the Windy Shadow may still have differences in sound due to other factors such as the overall design and construction of the switches.
On the other hand, both the Aqua and the Windy Shadow have nylon bottom housings, which produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, as a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches using nylon. The qualities of the bottom housing play a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. Despite using different materials for their bottom housings, the Aqua and Windy Shadow are likely to offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound depth and resonance.
In conclusion, the Dareu Aqua and the Aflion Windy Shadow each offer a unique combination of housing materials that contribute to their overall sound profile and typing experience. While both switches share polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings, the differences in design and construction may result in slight variations in sound quality. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound or a deeper, fuller sound, both switches provide a high-quality typing experience with their carefully chosen housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, it is clear that they offer different weight options for users. The Aqua has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes, while the Windy Shadow has an unknown actuation force. The bottom out force of the Aqua is unavailable, while the Windy Shadow has a heavier bottom out force of 55 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. For those who prefer a lighter typing feel, the Aqua may be the better choice, while the Windy Shadow is ideal for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Both switches offer unique weight options that cater to different preferences for typing or gaming experiences.
Travel distance
The Dareu Aqua linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Aqua's 4 mm travel distance is considered to be more traditional, offering a moderate amount of depth when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow's 3.5 mm travel distance is shallower, making it popular among gamers looking for faster response times. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference - if you prefer a deeper key press, the Aqua may be the better option, whereas if you prioritize quick response times, the Windy Shadow would be the choice for you.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Aqua has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aqua for $3.76.
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 Dareu Aqua linear switch provides a unique chirpy and clacky sound signature, giving it a distinctive character that sets it apart from others in the market. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch offers a more neutral and low-pitched sound profile, with a touch of bounce from its extended spring. Depending on personal preference, the Aqua's chirpy and clacky sound may be more appealing to those who enjoy a sharper and more percussive typing experience, while the Windy Shadow's neutral sound may be preferred by those looking for a more mellow and bass-heavy tone.
When it comes to feel, the Dareu Aqua linear switch is characterized by its easy-to-press and feathery nature, offering a light and effortless typing experience that reduces finger fatigue during extended use. In comparison, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch provides a mild typing experience that falls within a safe middle ground, making it approachable and comfortable for a wide range of users. Both switches offer a different tactile feel, with the Aqua being exceptionally light and easy to press, while the Windy Shadow strikes a balance between gentle resistance and comfort.
Overall, the Dareu Aqua linear switch stands out for its super light 37g actuation force, chirpy and clacky sound signature, and feathery feel, making it a unique choice for those who prefer a lighter touch and distinctive typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch offers a more neutral sound profile, a bounce from its extended spring, and a comfortable medium-light bottom-out at 55g, catering to users looking for a versatile and approachable typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer distinct qualities that can enhance the typing experience, providing users with a variety of options to suit their needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a super light actuation force and a distinctive chirpy and clacky sound, the Dareu Aqua switch is the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a medium-light switch with a neutral sound profile and a comfortable bounce, the Aflion Windy Shadow switch would be more suitable. The Aqua switch offers an easy-to-press and feathery typing experience, while the Windy Shadow switch provides a mild and approachable feel. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for sound, actuation force, and typing experience.
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