Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch to the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, there are distinct differences that cater to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Brown offers a subtle tactile sensation with a gentle bump that enhances typing without disrupting the flow. It provides a medium-high pitch for satisfying auditory feedback and features a frosted light diffuser for enhanced RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch offers a neutral sound profile with a distinctive bounce from its extended spring, making it comfortable for medium-light typing at a 55g bottom-out. While the G Pro 3.0 Brown is easy-to-press and stepped, the Windy Shadow is low-pitched and neutral. Both switches have their unique qualities that appeal to different 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
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
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
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
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
19.7mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Aflion Windy Shadow have polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting, as it allows the lighting to shine through for a visually appealing effect. This similarity in housing material ensures that both switches will deliver a clear and resonant sound profile, making them suitable choices for those who prioritize sound quality in their typing experience.
On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Windy Shadow have different bottom housings, with the G Pro 3.0 Brown featuring a nylon bottom housing and the Windy Shadow also utilizing nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that can enhance the typing experience for users who prefer a quieter and more muted sound profile. This shared characteristic in bottom housing material ensures that both switches will provide a satisfying typing experience with a focus on sound quality.
While both switches share similar top housing materials in polycarbonate and bottom housing materials in nylon, the distribution of these materials within the switches will impact the sound profile in different ways. The bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing on the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This division of housing materials allows for a balanced and dynamic sound profile that caters to the preferences of users seeking both sharp, crisp sounds and deeper, fuller tones in their typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, we find that the G Pro 3.0 Brown has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Windy Shadow, whose actuation force is unknown. However, the bottom out force of the Windy Shadow is 55 grams, lighter than the G Pro 3.0 Brown's 63 grams. This means that the G Pro 3.0 Brown offers a more substantial typing experience with a slightly heavier actuation force and bottom out force, while the Windy Shadow provides a lighter typing feel. Both switches fall within the medium range in terms of actuation force, making them suitable for various typing preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on whether one prefers a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch boasts a travel distance of 4 mm, making it a more traditional option when it comes to key switches. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Gamers may prefer the Windy Shadow for its quicker response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those looking for a more substantial key press experience may lean towards the G Pro 3.0 Brown. Both switches offer their own unique benefits, with the G Pro 3.0 Brown providing a deeper feel and the Windy Shadow offering a faster keystroke. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown 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 Brown 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 Brown tactile switch offers a medium-high pitch that provides a satisfying auditory feedback during typing. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch is characterized by a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone suitable for various purposes. Both switches provide unique sound qualities that can enhance the typing experience, depending on personal preference and the overall setup of the keyboard.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch is known for being easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Additionally, the G Pro 3.0 Brown provides a mild typing experience, with a stepped feel that offers a subtle tactile sensation. Similarly, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch also offers a mild typing experience, making it approachable to most users. Both switches provide a comfortable and responsive typing feel that can cater to a variety of preferences.
Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the G Pro 3.0 Brown provides a medium-high pitch sound and easy-to-press feel with a gentle bump, the Windy Shadow offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile with a comfortable bottom-out force. Both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles, so choosing between them would ultimately depend on individual preferences in terms of sound, feel, and overall typing experience. Depending on your preference for either a tactile bump or a linear feel, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience with their unique characteristics.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, consider the following guidelines: opt for the G Pro 3.0 Brown if you appreciate a gentle tactile bump, medium pitch sound, and a bottom out force of 63 grams. This switch is ideal for those looking for a budget-friendly option with quality performance. On the other hand, choose the Aflion Windy Shadow if you prefer a neutral sound profile, medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams, and a smooth linear feel with a distinctive bounce from the extended spring. These switches provide a comfortable typing experience suitable for various typing preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on your personal typing preferences and the specific features you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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