Kailh Berry vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Kailh Berry and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Kailh Berry linear switch to the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, it is clear that they each offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Berry switch is praised for its hefty typing experience, springy feel, and chalk-like texture, resulting in a deep sound profile categorized as 'Textured', 'Low-pitched', and 'Bassy'. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow switch by Aflion boasts a neutral sound profile and a distinctive bounce from its extended spring, with a bottom-out weight of 55g, making it comfortably medium-light and categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Mild', and 'Neutral'. While the Berry switch may appeal to those who enjoy a more tactile typing experience, the Windy Shadow switch may be favored by those seeking a lighter touch and a neutral sound profile. 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
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
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
Comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Berry and Aflion Windy Shadow, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, despite their similarities in top housing material, the two switches diverge in their bottom housing material. The Berry features 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 utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, offering a similar experience as the Berry in terms of sound profile.
While both the Berry and Windy Shadow share the same top housing material of polycarbonate, their use of nylon for the bottom housing sets them apart. The nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, but the impact of the bottom housing differs between the two. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed, highlighting the importance of this material in overall typing experience. Conversely, the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key, showcasing the distinct contributions of each housing material in creating a unique typing experience for users of the Berry and Windy Shadow switches.
In conclusion, the Kailh Berry and Aflion Windy Shadow switches offer different typing experiences due to their housing materials. Both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharper sound profile and RGB lighting compatibility, but their use of nylon for the bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound. While the impact of the bottom housing is felt when pressing down on a key, the top housing material plays a role in the sound when releasing the key. Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials in the Berry and Windy Shadow switches provides users with a unique and customizable typing experience based on their preferences for sound profile and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, it is clear that the Berry is the heavier option with a bottom out force of 70 grams, while the Windy Shadow is the lighter option with a bottom out force of 55 grams. Both switches have an actuation force of None grams, meaning they require the same amount of force to trigger a keystroke. For those who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience, the Berry switch would be the ideal choice. However, for users who enjoy lighter switches that allow for longer typing sessions or extended gaming periods, the Windy Shadow switch would be the better option. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience desired.
Travel distance
The Kailh Berry 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, making them suitable for individuals who prefer quicker response times, such as gamers. However, the Berry switch offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a slightly more satisfying keypress for those who enjoy a bit more depth in their keystrokes. Ultimately, the difference in travel distance between the two switches is minimal, and users can expect similar results in terms of responsiveness and 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 Kailh Berry comes in at $6.25 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 comparing the sound qualities of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, the Berry switch is known for its low-pitched and bassy sound profile, offering a deep and rich tone during key presses. In contrast, the Windy Shadow switch provides a neutral sound profile, with a moderate actuation force requirement, suitable for various usage scenarios. Both switches offer unique acoustic experiences, with the Berry switch leaning towards a deeper resonance and the Windy Shadow switch offering a more balanced sound output.
Moving on to the feel, the Kailh Berry linear switch is characterized by a chalk-like texture when typing, providing a springy typing experience with noticeable friction. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch offers a mild typing experience, with a gentle feel that caters to a broader range of users. The Berry switch's textured feel may appeal to those seeking a more tactile typing experience, while the Windy Shadow switch provides a smoother and approachable typing feel for most individuals.
In conclusion, the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Berry switch stands out for its deep and bassy sound profile, coupled with a textured typing feel, appealing to users looking for a unique tactile experience. Conversely, the Windy Shadow switch provides a neutral sound profile and a mild typing feel, offering a more versatile and user-friendly option. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound depth and typing feel, ensuring a personalized mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom-out force and a springy typing experience, the Kailh Berry linear switch would be the way to go. The Berry switches offer a deep sound profile and a chalk-like texture when typing, giving you a unique and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom-out force and a more neutral sound profile with a distinctive bounce, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch would be a great choice. The Windy Shadow switches provide a comfortable typing experience with a mild feel that is approachable to most users. Consider your preferences for bottom-out force, sound, and feel when choosing between these two switches to find the best fit for your typing style.
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