Kailh Box Mute Jade vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Mute Jade and Aflion Windy Shadow offer unique features catering to different preferences. The Box Mute Jade is a clicky switch that provides a crunchy feel with a more subdued sound profile, making it ideal for those who enjoy the tactile feedback of a clicky switch without the loud noise. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow is a linear switch known for its neutral sound profile and distinctive bounce from the extended spring, offering a comfortable medium-light 55g bottom-out. Each switch has its own set of characteristics that cater to different preferences, from the accented and crunchy feel of the Box Mute Jade to the low-pitched and mild nature of the Windy Shadow. 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
75g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
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
Kailh Box spring
Spring
19.7mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Aflion Windy Shadow both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. This makes them ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the lighting to shine through effectively. However, where they differ is in their bottom housings - the Box Mute Jade uses nylon, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Windy Shadow also utilizes nylon for a similar effect.
Although both switches utilize polycarbonate top housings, the Kailh Box Mute Jade and Aflion Windy Shadow offer different tactile experiences due to their bottom housing materials. The nylon bottom housing of the Box Mute Jade creates a duller and rounder sound, absorbing more sound than harder plastics. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow's nylon bottom housing provides a similar deeper and fuller sound profile, contributing to a distinct typing experience. The combination of the top and bottom housing materials in each switch results in a unique tactile feedback that caters to different preferences.
When comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the Aflion Windy Shadow, it becomes clear that both switches have distinct advantages. While they share the same polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and crisp sound profile, the use of nylon in the bottom housing provides a different typing experience. The absorbent nature of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, making them ideal for users who prefer a more muted typing sound. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
The Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch has a heavier actuation force of 75 grams compared to the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. In terms of bottom out force, the Kailh Box Mute Jade requires 82 grams, while the Aflion Windy Shadow needs 55 grams to bottom out. This means that the Kailh Box Mute Jade is heavier both in actuation and bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer sessions, the Aflion Windy Shadow with its medium-light bottom out force may be the better option. On the other hand, if a stronger push feel is desired for a more substantial typing experience, the heavier Kailh Box Mute Jade would be the choice. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key weight and typing experience.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, we can see that the Box Mute Jade has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Windy Shadow has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances, making them ideal for those who prefer faster response times. However, the Box Mute Jade has a slightly longer travel distance than the Windy Shadow. The 0.1 mm difference may not be significant to most users, but some may notice a slightly deeper feel with the Box Mute Jade switch. Overall, both switches offer a quick and responsive typing experience, with the Box Mute Jade having a slightly longer travel distance for those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes.
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 Box Mute Jade comes in at $6.50 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
In terms of sound, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch has a crunchy sound profile reminiscent of stepping on piles of autumn leaves, while the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound that is more bass-heavy and mellow. The Box Mute Jade provides a quieter clicky sound, perfect for those who enjoy a more subdued auditory experience, whereas the Windy Shadow offers a moderate sound profile suitable for various environments. Ultimately, the sound preference between the two switches will depend on personal taste and the accompanying keyboard and keycap setup.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch provides an accented and stiff typing experience with a polished finish, offering a tactile feedback that is not overwhelming yet noticeable. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch offers a mild and gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. The extended spring in the Windy Shadow provides a distinctive bounce, while the Box Mute Jade offers a crunchy feel that is smooth and refined. The choice between the two switches will come down to individual preference for the typing feel that best suits your needs.
When considering all the available information, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch is ideal for those seeking a subdued and crunchy clicky typing experience with an accented and polished feel. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch is perfect for users looking for a low-pitched and neutral sound profile with a mild and gentle typing feel. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them will depend on whether you prioritize sound or feel in your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, both switches provide excellent options that can deliver satisfying typing experiences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you prefer a heavier switch with a more subdued clicky sound profile, then the Box Mute Jade would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light switch with a neutral sound profile and a gentle typing experience, then the Windy Shadow would be more suitable. Consider factors such as bottom-out force, sound profile, and tactile feel when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on your personal typing preferences and needs.
Mentioned in this article
