KTT Cream Yellow vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the KTT Cream Yellow and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, it can be helpful to consider the unique features offered by each option such as the KTT Cream Yellow and the Aflion Windy Shadow. The Cream Yellow switch stands out for its distinctively clacky sound due to its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem, providing resonant audio feedback. Additionally, the lengthened spring of the Cream Yellow switch gives it a bouncy typing feel, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch offers a neutral sound profile with a medium-light bottom-out force of 55g. With its extended spring providing a distinctive bounce, the Windy Shadow switch is perfect for those who prefer a smooth and mild 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
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.90 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
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
18mm spring
Spring
19.7mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Cream Yellow and the Aflion Windy Shadow, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of these switches contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an ideal material for switches designed to incorporate RGB lighting. This similarity in housing material suggests that users can expect a comparable sound experience when typing on either the Cream Yellow or the Windy Shadow.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Cream Yellow features a nylon housing while the Windy Shadow also incorporates nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This difference in bottom housing material may result in a slightly different typing experience between the Cream Yellow and the Windy Shadow. Users may notice a variation in the sound and feel when bottoming out the keys due to the impact of the bottom housing material on the overall typing experience.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Cream Yellow and the Windy Shadow plays a significant role in shaping the sound profile and typing feel of these switches. While both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, the differing bottom housing materials may lead to a distinct typing experience. Whether you prefer the sharper sound profile of polycarbonate in the Cream Yellow or the deeper sound profile of nylon in the Windy Shadow, each switch offers a unique typing experience that caters to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, we can see that the Cream Yellow requires a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Windy Shadow which has an unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Cream Yellow has a heavier force of 58 grams, while the Windy Shadow has a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-light range of forces, providing a balance between a comfortable typing experience and a satisfying tactile feedback. Depending on personal preference, some users may prefer the slightly lighter actuation force of the Cream Yellow for extended typing sessions, while others may prefer the heavier bottom out force of the Cream Yellow for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual typing preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.5mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. This makes them both equally suitable for users looking for a consistent typing experience in terms of travel distance. Whether you choose the KTT Cream Yellow or the Aflion Windy Shadow, you can expect similar results when it comes to the distance the switch travels when activated.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Cream Yellow has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cream Yellow for $2.55.
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 Cream Yellow switch offers a sharp and snappy "clacky" sound due to its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem, creating a crisp and percussive audio feedback. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow switch provides a more low-pitched and neutral sound profile, with a mellow tone and a moderate actuation force requirement suitable for various typing environments. Both switches offer distinct sound experiences, so choosing between them would depend on personal preference and the overall sound profile desired for the keyboard setup.
In terms of feel, the Cream Yellow switch is known for its bouncy typing experience, providing a spring-like and elastic feedback that gives a lively sensation with rebound when pressed. Conversely, the Windy Shadow switch offers a more mild typing experience, with a gentle feel that falls into a safe, middle-ground zone in terms of overall tactility. The preference between these switches would depend on whether the user prefers a more pronounced and bouncy feel or a gentler and approachable typing experience.
Taking into consideration the sound and feel qualities of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, it is clear that they offer different subjective experiences. The Cream Yellow provides a clacky sound and bouncy feel, while the Windy Shadow offers a low-pitched and mild typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches would depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and typing style. Both switches offer quality features that cater to different user preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience regardless of the choice made.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, you should consider the factors of sound preference, typing feel, and bottom out force. If you enjoy a clacky sound with a bouncy typing feel and don't mind a slightly higher bottom out force, the Cream Yellow switch may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a low-pitched and neutral sound profile with a mild typing experience and a lighter bottom out force, the Windy Shadow switch could be a better fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style for an optimal keyboard experience.
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