Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch to the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, it's easy to see the distinct characteristics that set them apart. The Baby Raccoon is known for its bright sound signature and crisp typing feel, thanks to its lengthened switch stems. Described as 'marbley', these switches offer a unique experience with categories like 'Resonant', 'Bouncy', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch boasts a neutral sound profile and a comfortable 55g bottom-out weight, making it a great choice for those who prefer a softer touch. 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
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm long spring
Spring
19.7mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Aflion Windy Shadow, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiff nature. Additionally, its translucency makes it ideal for switches intended to be used with RGB lighting. As a result, both switches are likely to have a similar sound profile and aesthetic appeal when it comes to their top housings.
However, the key difference between the two switches lies in their bottom housings. The Baby Raccoon (V2) utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Windy Shadow also features a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience with a deep and round sound profile. This similarity in bottom housing material ensures that both switches offer a consistent typing experience in terms of sound.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in both the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) and the Aflion Windy Shadow results in a balanced and harmonious typing experience. While the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. This distinction ensures that both switches deliver a satisfying typing experience that combines sharpness and clarity with depth and fullness in sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, we see differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Baby Raccoon has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Windy Shadow, which has an actuation force that is not specified and a bottom out force of 55 grams. Both switches fall into the medium range in terms of actuation force, but the Baby Raccoon is heavier when it comes to bottom out force. This means that typing on the Baby Raccoon may require a bit more effort compared to the Windy Shadow. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Windy Shadow may be the better choice, while the Baby Raccoon would suit those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, one's preference for a lighter or heavier actuation and bottom out force will determine which switch is more suitable for their typing style.
Travel distance
The Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular among gamers for their faster response times. However, the difference of 0.1 mm between the two switches may not be very noticeable to most users. Ultimately, whether you choose the Baby Raccoon or the Windy Shadow will depend on your personal preference for a slightly longer or shorter travel distance.
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 Baby Raccoon (V2) comes in at $5.50 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 Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch is characterized by a resonant and marbly sound profile, offering a high-pitched and clean auditory experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch provides a more low-pitched and neutral sound, with a mellow and bass-heavy tone. Depending on personal preference, the Baby Raccoon (V2) will give a more sharp and immersive sound, while the Windy Shadow offers a moderate and versatile sound suitable for various environments.
In terms of feel, the Baby Raccoon (V2) switch is described as creamy, bouncy, invigorating, and polished, providing a smooth, springy, and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow switch is described as mild, offering a gentle and approachable typing feel without any pronounced characteristics. Depending on individual typing preferences, the Baby Raccoon (V2) will give a more dynamic and responsive feel, while the Windy Shadow offers a mild and comfortable typing experience suitable for extended use.
In conclusion, the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) linear switch offers a bright and resonant sound profile with a creamy and invigorating feel, making it an ideal choice for those who enjoy a more immersive and tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch provides a neutral and low-pitched sound with a mild typing feel, catering to a wider range of users looking for a comfortable and reliable typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that will appeal to different preferences, ensuring that users can find a suitable option based on their individual typing needs and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium bottom-out force and a bright, resonant sound profile with a crisp typing feel, then the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) would be a great choice for you. The extended switch stems of the Baby Raccoon provide a unique marbly sensation that can enhance your typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a neutral sound profile with a medium-light bottom-out force and a more gentle typing experience, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch might be more suited to your preferences. The extended spring of the Windy Shadow offers a distinctive bounce, providing a comfortable and mellow typing feel. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and bottom-out force.
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