Gateron Box CJ vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two notable options that stand out are the Gateron Box CJ and the Aflion Windy Shadow. The Gateron Box CJ is renowned for its marriage of CJ lineage attributes and the swift characteristics of speed switches, making it ideal for those who value rapid response times. Typists will appreciate the higher-pitched clacks and the incredibly smooth push feel that glides effortlessly. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow from a rising manufacturer offers a neutral sound profile with a distinctive bounce from its extended spring. At a 55g bottom-out, these switches provide a comfortably medium-light typing experience. Each switch has its own unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
57g
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
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
15.4mm single-stage spring
Spring
19.7mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Box CJ and the Aflion Windy Shadow both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this common material in their top housing, the nuances in sound and feel may still vary slightly between the two.
In contrast, the Box CJ and the Windy Shadow differ in their bottom housing materials. The Box CJ utilizes a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow also features a nylon bottom housing for similar sound characteristics. Both switches benefit from the qualities of nylon in their bottom housings, creating a more muted and round sound compared to switches with harder plastic bottom housings.
It is important to note that the top and bottom housings play a significant role in the overall sound and feel of a switch. With different materials used in each part of the housing, the qualities of each material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. This means that the bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Despite the differences in housing materials between the Gateron Box CJ and the Aflion Windy Shadow, both switches offer unique sound profiles and tactile experiences based on their housing composition.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, it is evident that both switches fall under the category of medium-light in terms of force requirement. The Gateron Box CJ has a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Windy Shadow, where the actuation force is unknown. However, the bottom out force of the Windy Shadow is slightly heavier at 55 grams, whereas the Gateron Box CJ has a bottom out force of 57 grams. The difference in force between the two switches is minimal, and users can expect a similar typing experience with both options. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference regarding a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Windy Shadow the shorter option of the two. A 4.0mm travel distance is more traditional, offering a balance between depth and speed, while a 3.5mm travel distance is slightly shallower, catering to those who prioritize fast response times. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the Windy Shadow for its shorter travel distance, allowing for quick and precise keystrokes. However, those who prefer a more significant feeling of depth when typing may lean towards the Gateron Box CJ with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference and whether you prioritize speed or a more tactile typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Box CJ has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Box CJ for $5.35.
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 Gateron Box CJ linear switch is known for its clacky and chirpy characteristics, producing sharp and snappy sounds with a unique acoustic signature. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, with a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Depending on personal preference, the Box CJ may be favored for its distinct clacky sound, while the Windy Shadow may appeal to those who prefer a more subtle and mellow typing experience.
When it comes to feel, both the Gateron Box CJ and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switches are described as providing a mild typing experience. This means that they offer a gentle and approachable feel, suitable for a wide range of users. The smooth push feel of the Box CJ gives it a gliding sensation, while the Windy Shadow's extended spring provides a distinctive bounce at a comfortable 55g bottom-out. Overall, both switches offer a pleasant typing experience that falls within the middle-ground zone in terms of tactile feedback.
In conclusion, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. The Box CJ is characterized by its clacky and chirpy sound profile, along with a smooth push feel, while the Windy Shadow provides a low-pitched and neutral sound, paired with a mild typing experience. Depending on whether you prefer a more pronounced or subtle sound and feel, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer quality performance and can deliver similar results in terms of overall satisfaction, with the choice ultimately depending on individual preference.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch that offers rapid response and a high-pitched clack sound, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch would be a great choice for you. The medium-light bottom out force of 57 grams and smooth push feel make it ideal for typists seeking a unique typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a neutral sound profile and a distinct bounce from an extended spring, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch would be a suitable option with its 55g bottom-out force. Both switches offer a mild typing experience, but the Box CJ leans towards a sharper sound while the Windy Shadow provides a more mellow tone. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for sound, feel, and typing style.
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