Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Aflion Windy Shadow both stand out for their linear design. The G Pro 3.0 Black from Gateron offers a premium feel at an affordable price, with a heavier 60g actuation and 70g bottom-out force that appeals to those seeking a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow provides a neutral sound profile and a distinctive bounce from its extended spring, with a lighter 55g bottom-out force for a comfortable typing feel. While the G Pro 3.0 Black boasts a medium-high pitch and vibrant RGB lighting effects, the Windy Shadow is characterized by a low-pitched sound and mild typing experience. Each switch has its own unique qualities that cater to different preferences and needs. 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
60g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Partial box
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
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
19.7mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and Aflion Windy Shadow both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The G Pro 3.0 Black features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound that is described as clacky. In contrast, the Windy Shadow utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While both materials offer distinct sound characteristics, they both provide a satisfying typing experience with their unique acoustic properties.
When it comes to the bottom housing materials, the G Pro 3.0 Black's POM housing produces a deeper and more muted sound profile, adding a different dimension to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a unique tactile sensation for users. Despite the differences in material, both switches offer a pleasant typing experience with their bottom housing materials contributing to the overall sound and feel of the keystrokes.
While the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and Aflion Windy Shadow have different housing materials for their top and bottom housings, they both strive to provide an enjoyable typing experience with distinct sound profiles. The choice between POM and nylon bottom housings and polycarbonate top housings ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. Both switches offer a unique typing experience that can be tailored to individual preferences, making them both solid options for those seeking a high-quality mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch has a higher actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the G Pro 3.0 Black is also higher at 70 grams, while the Windy Shadow has a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that the G Pro 3.0 Black provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel, while the Windy Shadow offers a lighter touch, making it ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming. Both switches have their own advantages, with the G Pro 3.0 Black being heavier and the Windy Shadow being lighter in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preference regarding typing feel and force sensitivity.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The G Pro has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Windy Shadow. A 0.5 mm may not seem like a significant difference, but it can impact the overall feel and responsiveness of the switch. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Windy Shadow with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may lean towards the G Pro. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black has an MSRP of $2.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Black for $2.77.
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 G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch offers a clacky and subdued auditory experience which produces a sharp and snappy sound with a medium-high pitch. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch provides a low-pitched and neutral sound profile that is more bass-heavy and mellow. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the G Pro 3.0 Black being more pronounced and the Windy Shadow being more moderate and versatile in various environments.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switch boasts a creamy, silky, and subtle typing experience that is smooth, buttery, and gentle on the fingers. These qualities make typing on this switch feel effortless and enjoyable. In contrast, the Aflion Windy Shadow switch offers a mild typing experience that is approachable and safe for most users. Both switches provide unique tactile feedback that caters to different preferences, with the G Pro 3.0 Black offering a more luxurious typing experience and the Windy Shadow providing a more universally pleasing feel.
Overall, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and Aflion Windy Shadow linear switches offer different sound and feel characteristics, both switches are excellent choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The G Pro 3.0 Black provides a heavier actuation and a clacky sound profile along with a creamy and silky feel, perfect for those seeking a premium typing experience. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow offers a lighter actuation, a lower-pitched sound profile, and a mild typing feel that is versatile and suitable for a wide range of users. Whether you choose the G Pro 3.0 Black for its premium quality or the Windy Shadow for its versatility, you can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, consider the factors that matter most to you. If you prefer a medium-heavy feel with a clacky and substantial typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Black might be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light feel with a neutral sound profile and a more gentle typing experience, the Windy Shadow could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style. Whether you prioritize a more robust feel or a smoother typing experience, both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. It's all about finding the switch that aligns best with what you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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