TTC Bluish White vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the TTC Bluish White and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, it's essential to understand the key differences between the two. The Bluish White is favored for its tactile feedback, offering a satisfyingly poppy typing experience with a snappy sound profile. Its characteristics are described as 'Buttery', 'Mild', 'Stepped', 'Subtle', 'Polished', with a 'Low-pitched' tone. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow linear switch from Aflion boasts a neutral sound profile and distinctive bounce from its extended spring, providing a comfortable medium-light 55g bottom-out experience. With categorizations of 'Low-pitched', 'Mild', and 'Neutral', the Windy Shadow offers a different typing sensation compared to the Bluish White. Each switch has its own unique qualities that may cater to different preferences. 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
42g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
19.7mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The TTC Bluish White and the Aflion Windy Shadow both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. As a result, both switches will offer similar sound profiles and visual appeal when it comes to their top housing material.
In terms of their bottom housing material, both the Bluish White and the Windy Shadow opt for nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches that use this material. This is because nylon is softer and absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel when it comes to the bottom housing material of these switches.
When comparing the overall typing experience between the two switches, the difference in housing materials becomes more apparent. The split between the qualities of the top and bottom housing materials means that the bottom housing will have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when keys are pressed, while the top housing will influence the sound when keys are released. Despite their differences, both the Bluish White and the Windy Shadow offer unique sound profiles and tactile experiences based on their choice of housing materials, making them suitable options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts seeking a specific typing feel.
Weight
The TTC Bluish White tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams compared to the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the Bluish White is 50 grams, while the Windy Shadow has a bottom out force of 55 grams. This makes the Bluish White slightly lighter in terms of overall force required for typing. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Bluish White for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may prefer the slightly heavier bottom out force of the Windy Shadow for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer a different typing feel and force requirement, catering to individual preferences.
Travel distance
The TTC Bluish White and Aflion Windy Shadow switches both have the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will feel the same amount of distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent tactile or linear experience, depending on the user's preference, and they are equally suited for typing or gaming purposes. In terms of travel distance, there is no difference between the two switches, so you can expect similar results in terms of key feel and performance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Bluish White has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Bluish White for $4.63.
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 TTC Bluish White tactile switch offers a low-pitched, snappy sound profile that provides a satisfyingly poppy typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch also provides a low-pitched sound profile, but with a more neutral tone due to its moderate actuation force requirement. This makes the Windy Shadow suitable for various typing preferences, whether for work or leisure. Both switches offer a pleasant sound experience, but the Bluish White may appeal more to those who prefer a slightly louder and more tactile typing sound.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Bluish White switch offers a buttery, mild, stepped, subtle, and polished typing experience. These qualities indicate a smooth, gentle, and refined keystroke that is suitable for shared spaces. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow switch provides a mild typing experience, which is approachable to most users due to its safe middle-ground characteristics. While the specific feel of the Windy Shadow may be less distinct than the Bluish White, both switches offer a comfortable typing sensation that is enjoyable for long typing sessions.
Overall, both the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Bluish White provides a snappy and poppy sound with a smooth and polished typing feel, the Windy Shadow offers a neutral tone with a comfortable medium-light actuation force. Depending on personal preferences, users can choose between the more tactile and distinctive typing experience of the Bluish White or the versatile and approachable feel of the Windy Shadow. Ultimately, both switches are excellent choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts looking for a quality typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a poppy, buttery feel with a snappy sound profile, the Bluish White may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a neutral sound profile with a distinctive bounce and a mild typing experience, the Windy Shadow could suit your needs better. Ultimately, your decision should be based on how each switch aligns with your personal typing style and preferences. Happy typing!
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