Kailh Box White vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White 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 White and the Aflion Windy Shadow offer unique experiences for users. The Box White is a clicky switch loved for its maximum audio feedback, offering a crisp sound reminiscent of stepping on autumn leaves. With a resonant and high-pitched feel, typing on these switches provides a crunchy and polished tactile experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow is a linear switch that stands out for its neutral sound profile and distinctive bounce from an extended spring. With a bottom-out weight of 55g, these switches provide a comfortably medium-light typing experience. Each switch has its own strengths and 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
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
19.7mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Kailh Box White and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when typing. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the resonant sound, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. This results in a more clear and vibrant typing experience with both switches, showcasing the versatility and aesthetic appeal of polycarbonate in switch housings.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Box White and the Windy Shadow switches utilize nylon, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. The nylon bottom housing of these switches enhances the typing experience by providing a softer and more cushioned bottom-out sound, further contributing to the overall feel and sound profile of the switches.
While the top and bottom housings of the Kailh Box White and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches differ in material, they each bring unique qualities to the typing experience. The split between the bottom and top housing materials allows for a well-rounded sound and feel when typing on these switches. The impact of the bottom housing is more noticeable during bottom-out, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Overall, both switches offer a balanced combination of housing materials to enhance the typing experience for users.
Weight
The Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch offer different experiences in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Box White has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Windy Shadow's unknown actuation force. However, the Windy Shadow has a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams, while the Box White requires 60 grams to bottom out. This means that the Box White provides a slightly more substantial typing experience with both a heavier actuation and bottom out force, while the Windy Shadow offers a lighter touch with a lower bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences, with some opting for the lighter feel of the Windy Shadow for longer typing sessions, while others may prefer the heavier feel of the Box White for a more pronounced typing experience.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. However, the Box White has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Windy Shadow. Those who prefer a more responsive feel may lean towards the Kailh Box White, while those who enjoy a bit more depth in their keystrokes may opt for the Aflion Windy Shadow. Overall, both switches offer similar results due to their relatively close travel distances.
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 White comes in at $2.76 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 Kailh Box White clicky switch is known for its resonant and high-pitched qualities, producing a clean and sharp sound akin to walking on autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch offers a more neutral and low-pitched sound profile, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone. Both switches offer distinct auditory experiences, catering to different preferences in sound.
In terms of feel, the Box White switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Windy Shadow switch is described as mild, providing a gentle typing experience that falls within a safe middle ground. The different feel of these switches can greatly impact the overall typing experience, appealing to those who prefer a more polished or mild sensation while typing.
Overall, the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch offer unique qualities in both sound and feel. The Box White switch caters to those who enjoy a resonant, high-pitched sound with a polished typing feel, while the Windy Shadow switch appeals to individuals seeking a neutral, low-pitched sound with a mild typing experience. Depending on personal preference and typing habits, users can select the switch that best suits their needs for an optimal mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, consider your preference for sound and feel. If you enjoy a resonant and high-pitched sound profile with a crunchy tactile feel, the Box White may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lower-pitched and more neutral sound with a mild and approachable typing experience, the Aflion Windy Shadow could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience you prefer, whether it's the clicky feedback of the Box White or the smooth linear feel of the Windy Shadow.
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