KTT Darling vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Darling and the Aflion Windy Shadow are both linear mechanical keyboard switches with unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Darling is celebrated for its chewy and substantial typing sensation, along with a pronounced bounciness that adds a springy responsiveness to each keystroke. In contrast, the Windy Shadow offers a neutral sound profile and a distinctive bounce from its extended spring, providing a comfortable medium-light typing experience. While the Darling is characterized by its bouncy, clacky, high-pitched, and resonant qualities, the Windy Shadow is known for its low-pitched, mild, and neutral attributes. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different preferences, making them suitable choices for various typing styles. 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
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
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
19.7mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Darling and the Aflion Windy Shadow are quite similar in terms of their polycarbonate top housings. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate plastic enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced by both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed to showcase RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the overall design.
On the other hand, the nylon bottom housings of the Darling and the Windy Shadow differ slightly in terms of sound profile. While both switches benefit from the deeper and fuller sound elicited by typing on nylon bottom housings, the softer nature of nylon in the Darling may create a slightly duller and rounder sound compared to the Windy Shadow. This difference in sound may be subtle but can be discerned by users seeking a specific typing experience based on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in both switches plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and tactile feedback experienced by users. While the polycarbonate top housings provide a clear and resonant sound with a sharper pitch, the nylon bottom housings contribute to a deeper and fuller typing experience. Whether you prefer a crisper sound or a slightly duller sound, both the KTT Darling and the Aflion Windy Shadow offer unique tactile experiences that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the combination of these housing materials in each switch results in a customized typing experience for users based on their individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Darling linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, we see that the Darling has a slightly lighter actuation force at 45 grams compared to the Windy Shadow, whose actuation force is unknown. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Windy Shadow is slightly heavier at 55 grams compared to the Darling's 53 grams. Both switches fall under the category of medium-light in terms of force required. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Darling switch due to its lighter actuation force, while those who prefer a slightly more substantial typing feel may opt for the Windy Shadow with its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The KTT Darling linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch both have the same travel distance of 3.5mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. Both switches offer a consistent and satisfying typing experience with their identical travel distances. Whether you choose the Darling or the Windy Shadow, you can expect similar results in terms of key feel and actuation. Overall, the travel distance of both switches is equal, making them equally suitable choices for keyboard enthusiasts looking for a linear switch with a precise and consistent typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Darling has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Darling for $3.90.
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 KTT Darling linear switch is known for its clacky, high-pitched, and resonant qualities, providing a sharp and immersive auditory experience that is both crisp and bright. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch offers a more neutral and low-pitched sound profile, suitable for those who prefer a more mellow and bass-heavy tone. Depending on personal preferences and setup, users can expect a distinct sound experience with each switch.
In terms of feel, the KTT Darling switch is described as bouncy, offering a spring-like and elastic feedback sensation that adds a lively feel to each keystroke. In contrast, the Aflion Windy Shadow switch provides a mild typing experience, with gentler characteristics that cater to a wide range of users seeking a comfortable and approachable feel while typing. The difference in feel between the two switches lies in the level of bounce and responsiveness each one offers, allowing users to choose based on their typing preferences.
Overall, the KTT Darling linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch offer unique subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Darling delivers a chewy and substantial typing sensation with a pronounced bounciness and high-pitched sound, the Windy Shadow provides a more neutral sound profile with a comfortable medium-light bottom-out force and a mild typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. If similar results are desired, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of overall comfort and key response from both switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Darling linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a switch with a chewy and substantial feel, along with a bouncy and springy responsiveness, the Darling would be a great choice for you. Additionally, if you prefer a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, the Darling is also a good option. On the other hand, if you are looking for a more neutral sound profile and a switch that provides a comfortable, medium-light bottom-out force, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch would be a better fit. The Windy Shadow offers a mild typing experience, making it approachable to most users. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the specific tactile and auditory qualities you desire in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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