HMX Cheese vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cheese and the Aflion Windy Shadow stand out as exceptional linear options. The HMX Cheese is revered for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, offering a satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature that is lighter than 90% of all switches. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow from the emerging manufacturer Aflion boasts a neutral sound profile with a distinctive bounce from its extended spring, providing a comfortable medium-light feel with a 55g bottom-out. While both switches have their unique characteristics that may appeal to different users, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and individual typing style. 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
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
46g
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
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
19.7mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Cheese and the Aflion Windy Shadow differ significantly in terms of sound profile and aesthetic. The Cheese's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Windy Shadow's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile because of its stiffer nature, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the polycarbonate top housing is translucent, making it ideal for RGB lighting effects. Despite their differences, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
On the other hand, both the Cheese and the Windy Shadow utilize nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile similar to their top housings. Nylon's softer nature allows for more sound absorption compared to harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. This consistency in housing material between the two switches ensures a cohesive sound experience throughout each keystroke. Despite the similarities in bottom housing material, the overall sound profiles of the switches may still differ due to the contrasting properties of their top housings.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the HMX Cheese and the Aflion Windy Shadow play a crucial role in shaping the sound profiles of these switches. While the Cheese utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a consistent deep and full sound profile, the Windy Shadow combines a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper sound with a nylon bottom housing for a similar deep and full sound. These differences in housing materials contribute to the unique auditory experiences offered by each switch, catering to a variety of preferences among keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The HMX Cheese linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the Windy Shadow is heavier at 55 grams, while the bottom out force of the Cheese is 46 grams. This means that the Cheese is lighter in both actuation and bottom out forces compared to the Windy Shadow, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. The Windy Shadow, on the other hand, offers a slightly heavier bottom out force for those who like a bit more resistance while typing. Both switches provide different typing experiences based on the force required, so users can choose based on their personal preferences for typing comfort and performance.
Travel distance
The HMX Cheese and Aflion Windy Shadow linear switches both have a travel distance of 3.5mm, making them equal in terms of the distance the switch travels from top to bottom. When pressing down on a key with either of these switches, users will experience the same travel distance sensation. This means that whether you choose the Cheese or the Windy Shadow, you can expect similar results in terms of key feel and actuation. Thus, both switches offer the same level of tactile feedback and keypress experience due to their identical travel distances.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Cheese has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cheese for $3.79.
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
Overall, the HMX Cheese linear switch excels in providing a smooth and pristine typing experience with a satisfying clacky sound, while being one of the lightest switches available. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch offers a neutral sound profile with a distinctive bounce from its extended spring, providing a moderate-light typing experience. When comparing the two, the Cheese switch may appeal to those who prefer a lighter actuation force and a more poppy sound, while the Windy Shadow switch may be better suited for those seeking a comfortable medium-light typing experience with a more neutral sound profile. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, and the choice between them will depend on individual preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the HMX Cheese linear switch or the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer an ultra-light switch with a smooth and satisfying typing experience, along with a clacky and poppy sound signature, the HMX Cheese may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light switch with a neutral sound profile and a distinctive bounce, the Aflion Windy Shadow could be the better option. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider factors such as bottom out force, sound profile, and overall typing feel when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between the HMX Cheese and Aflion Windy Shadow will depend on what suits your typing needs best.
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