Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Aflion Windy Shadow mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The V3 Crystal Pro is celebrated for its fully polycarbonate construction, providing a bright and chirpy sound signature along with a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow by Aflion boasts a neutral sound profile with a distinctive bounce from its extended spring, offering a comfortable medium-light 55g bottom-out. While the Crystal Pro is categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Chirpy', and 'Polished', the Windy Shadow is categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Mild', and 'Neutral'. Both switches have their own allure, making them suitable for different typing styles and preferences. 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
48g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Polycarbonate
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
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
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Aflion Windy Shadow both feature polycarbonate top housings, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound output. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the keyboards. However, while both keyboards utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, they differ in their choice of bottom housing material.
The V3 Crystal Pro utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which continues to contribute to the sharp and clear sound profile characteristic of polycarbonate material. In contrast, the Aflion Windy Shadow features a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound output compared to the stiffer polycarbonate. This difference in bottom housing material will impact the overall sound and feel of typing on each keyboard, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel while the top housing influences the sound upon key release.
In conclusion, while both the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Aflion Windy Shadow share the use of polycarbonate for their top housings, they diverge in their choice of bottom housing material. The V3 Crystal Pro's polycarbonate bottom housing results in a consistent sharp and clear sound profile, while the Windy Shadow's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound experience. The unique properties of each housing material contribute to the overall typing experience and sound output of each keyboard, catering to different preferences and needs of users.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, it is evident that they both fall within the medium range in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The V3 Crystal Pro has a slightly lighter actuation force of 48 grams compared to the Windy Shadow, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Windy Shadow has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 55 grams compared to the V3 Crystal Pro's 60 grams. This means that the V3 Crystal Pro may provide a slightly lighter typing experience, while the Windy Shadow may offer a more gentle bottoming out feel. Ultimately, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, but users looking for a slightly lighter feel may prefer the V3 Crystal Pro, while those who prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force may lean towards the Windy Shadow.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches offer a shorter travel distance compared to the traditional 4.0 mm standard, making them ideal for those seeking quicker response times. Gamers, in particular, might appreciate the shorter travel distance for fast-paced gameplay. However, some users may find the shorter travel distance to be too abrupt and prefer a switch with a longer travel distance for a more substantial key press feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and tactile feedback.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Crystal Pro for $3.30.
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, when comparing the sound qualities of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches, the Crystal Pro offers a chirpy and bright sound signature, while the Windy Shadow produces a more neutral and low-pitched tone. The feel of the V3 Crystal Pro is described as bouncy and polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience, whereas the Windy Shadow offers a mild and approachable typing feel. If you prefer a switch with a distinct bounce and a polished finish, the V3 Crystal Pro may be the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a more neutral sound profile and a gentle typing experience, the Aflion Windy Shadow may be more to your liking. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choosing between the two will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prioritize a bright and chirpy sound signature with a silky smooth typing experience, the V3 Crystal Pro would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a neutral sound profile with a distinctive bounce from an extended spring, along with a comfortable medium-light bottom-out force, the Aflion Windy Shadow could be the ideal fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your keyboarding needs.
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