Gateron CJ vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CJ and the Aflion Windy Shadow both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The CJ is praised for its high-pitched clacks and smooth push feel, appealing to those who enjoy a more distinctive typing experience. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow impresses with its neutral sound profile and comfortable 55g bottom-out weight, providing a balance between sound and feel. While both switches exhibit characteristics of linear switches, such as a lack of tactile feedback, the CJ leans towards a chirpy and thocky sound profile, while the Windy Shadow offers a mild and low-pitched sound. 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
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
19.7mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CJ and the Aflion Windy Shadow, the most noticeable difference lies in the top housing. The CJ utilizes a proprietary INK blend that produces a pointed and high-pitched sound, while the Windy Shadow features a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. Both materials offer a unique sound experience, with the INK blend providing a clacky sound and the polycarbonate offering a more resonant and clear tone. Despite these differences, both materials allow for RGB lighting due to their translucency, catering to those who prioritize aesthetics in their switch choices.
In terms of the bottom housing, the CJ opts for a POM material that produces a deep and muted sound profile, while the Windy Shadow utilizes nylon for a fuller and rounder sound. POM is known for creating a unique and pleasing sound, perfect for those who enjoy a deeper tone, whereas nylon absorbs more sound and creates a duller sound profile. These differences in bottom housing materials contribute to the overall typing experience and can cater to individual preferences for key feel and sound quality.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the Gateron CJ and Aflion Windy Shadow offer distinct sound profiles, the impact of each material on the overall typing experience is split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing plays a larger role in the sound when letting go of a key. Despite this division, both switches offer a unique sound experience driven by the specific qualities of their respective housing materials, catering to a variety of preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, it is evident that there are some differences between the two. The Gateron CJ has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Aflion Windy Shadow, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Windy Shadow has a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams, while the CJ has a bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that while the CJ switch requires more force to initiate a keystroke, it also provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow offers a lighter typing experience with its lighter bottom out force. Depending on personal preference, some may prefer the lighter actuation and bottom out force of the Windy Shadow for longer typing sessions, while others may prefer the heavier forces of the Gateron CJ for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it slightly longer than the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. While both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the CJ being on the longer side and the Windy Shadow on the shorter side, the differences may still be noticeable depending on personal preference. Gamers seeking faster response times may prefer the Windy Shadow with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may opt for the CJ with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will come down to individual preference for key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron 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 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 CJ linear switch is best described as chirpy, with a unique squeaky quality that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch offers a low-pitched sound profile that is more bass-heavy and mellow. Both switches are considered neutral in terms of sound, making them suitable for a wide range of users and environments. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference and the overall sound profile you are looking for in a keyboard switch.
When it comes to feel, both the Gateron CJ and Aflion Windy Shadow linear switches are described as providing a mild typing experience. This means that the typing feel is gentle and approachable, falling in a safe middle-ground zone that is comfortable for most users. The CJ switch offers an impossibly smooth push feel, while the Windy Shadow switch provides a distinctive bounce due to its extended spring design. If you prefer a typing experience that is not too heavy or too light, either of these switches would be a great choice.
Overall, both the Gateron CJ and Aflion Windy Shadow linear switches offer unique and enjoyable qualities that cater to different preferences. The CJ switch stands out for its chirpy sound and smooth push feel, while the Windy Shadow switch excels in its low-pitched sound profile and distinctive bounce. Depending on whether you prefer a higher-pitched or bass-heavy sound and a smoother or bouncier feel, you can choose between the two switches to customize your typing experience. Keep in mind that the overall sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by other factors like the keyboard and keycaps used.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom-out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom-out force, chirpy and low-pitched sound profile, and a smooth push feel, the Gateron CJ may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom-out force, a neutral and low-pitched sound profile, and a mild typing experience, the Aflion Windy Shadow could be more suitable. Ultimately, it all comes down to personal preference and what feels best for you when typing.
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