HC Studio Crabapple vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HC Studio Crabapple and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear mechanical keyboard switches, both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Crabapple stands out for its POM construction, providing a frictionless typing experience with a dry smoothness and subtle texture. Its sound signature is mild and understated, appealing to those seeking a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow from Aflion offers a neutral sound profile with a distinctive bounce from its extended spring. With a 55g bottom-out, it provides a comfortable medium-light feel. While the Crabapple is praised for its texture and frictionless feel, the Windy Shadow shines with its neutral sound and comfortable typing experience. 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
37g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened single-staged spring
Spring
19.7mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HC Studio Crabapple and the Aflion Windy Shadow, it is evident that they offer distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Crabapple's POM top housing provides a deeper and muted sound, creating a unique acoustic experience for typists. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow's polycarbonate top housing delivers a sharper and crisper sound, thanks to its stiffer nature. This contrast in sound profiles highlights how different housing materials can significantly impact the overall typing experience.
When it comes to the bottom housings, the Crabapple's POM material once again offers a deeper and more muted sound profile. In comparison, the Windy Shadow's nylon bottom housing brings forth a fuller and rounder sound, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This difference in sound profiles showcases how the choice of housing material can influence the overall typing feel and auditory feedback when using mechanical switches. It is intriguing to see how variations in housing materials can produce such contrasting typing experiences.
Overall, while the HC Studio Crabapple and the Aflion Windy Shadow feature different housing materials for their top and bottom housings, the key takeaway is that these materials play a crucial role in determining the sound profile and tactile feedback of the switches. Whether it be the unique sound characteristics of POM or the sharpness of polycarbonate, each housing material offers a distinct typing experience for users. Understanding the impact of housing materials on switch performance can help enthusiasts make informed decisions when choosing mechanical keyboards or customizing switches for a personalized typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, it is evident that the Crabapple is lighter in both aspects. The Crabapple has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, providing a light typing experience. In contrast, the Windy Shadow has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it slightly heavier in comparison. For those who prefer a lighter typing feel for extended periods of use, the Crabapple would be the ideal choice. However, if a more substantial typing experience is desired, the Windy Shadow may be a better option. Ultimately, the weight of the switches plays a significant role in determining the typing experience, with lighter switches being more suitable for prolonged use and heavier switches offering a firmer push feel.
Travel distance
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Windy Shadow the quicker option with a slightly faster response time due to the shorter travel distance. On the other hand, the Crabapple offers a bit more depth with its longer travel distance. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular among gamers for their quick and responsive feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for speed versus a more substantial key press feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HC Studio Crabapple has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Crabapple for $4.70.
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
When it comes to sound, the Crabapple linear switch offers a subdued and mild sound signature that is not completely silent but provides a subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch provides a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, with a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, ensuring a pleasant typing experience for users.
In terms of feel, the Crabapple linear switch is known for its frictionless and textured typing experience, offering minimal resistance and a subtle texture with each keystroke. Additionally, the mild feel of the switch ensures a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Similarly, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch also provides a mild typing experience that falls within a safe middle-ground zone, ensuring comfortable typing with its medium-light 55g bottom-out force. Both switches offer a smooth and effortless typing journey, catering to different preferences in typing feel.
Overall, both the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Crabapple switch provides a more subdued sound profile and a frictionless typing experience with a subtle texture, the Aflion Windy Shadow switch offers a low-pitched sound and a mild typing feel with a distinctive bounce from its extended spring. Users can expect a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience with either switch, depending on their preference for sound and feel. Ultimately, both switches offer quality options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts, ensuring a satisfying and personalized typing journey.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, you should consider your preference for bottom-out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a lighter switch with a distinct dry smoothness and a subtle texture, the Crabapple may be the suitable choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier switch with a neutral sound profile and a distinctive bounce from an extended spring, the Windy Shadow could be the better option. Both switches offer a mild typing experience, but the Crabapple stands out for its frictionless and textured feel, while the Windy Shadow provides a comfortable medium-light bottom-out force and a low-pitched sound. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing experience.
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