Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red 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 Red and Aflion Windy Shadow both stand out as top contenders in the linear switch category. The G Pro 3.0 Red boasts a budget-friendly option from Gateron's G Pro line-up, offering a smooth typing experience with its medium-light actuation force. The frosted light diffuser allows for vibrant RGB lighting effects, while the medium-high pitch provides a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow distinguishes itself with a neutral sound profile and a distinctive bounce from its extended spring design. With a 55g bottom-out force, it offers a comfortable typing experience. Each switch has its own unique features 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
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 Red and the Aflion Windy Shadow feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. This makes them ideal choices for switches that will be used with RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the light to shine through beautifully. The similarities in top housing material between these two switches indicate that users can expect similar sound profiles and aesthetics when typing on either switch.
On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Aflion Windy Shadow have nylon bottom housings, known for providing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. Nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches made with this material. While both switches share this material for their bottom housings, users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel based on the properties of nylon. This similarity suggests that users will not notice a significant difference in the sound profile between these two switches when typing.
Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Aflion Windy Shadow offer a mix of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials that create unique sound profiles and typing experiences. The differences in material between the top and bottom housings of these switches allow for a balance in sound when both pressing down and releasing a key. While the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing will influence the bottom-out sound and feel when typing. Despite these differences, users can expect a harmonious blend of sharpness and depth in sound when using either of these switches.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, it is clear that the Gateron switch is lighter in terms of both actuation force and bottom out force. The G Pro 3.0 Red has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option overall. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow has a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Gateron switch. While the actuation force of the Windy Shadow is not specified, it is safe to assume that it falls within a similar range to the G Pro 3.0 Red, resulting in a comparable typing experience in terms of actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with the Gateron switch being ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch and the Aflion switch catering to those who prefer a slightly heavier feel during typing.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red 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 3.0 Red offers a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Windy Shadow, making it the longer option. Gamers looking for a faster response time may prefer the Windy Shadow with its shorter travel distance. However, those who enjoy a deeper key press experience may find the G Pro 3.0 Red more satisfying. Both switches offer unique advantages based on their travel distances, so choosing between the two ultimately depends on personal preference for keypress depth and quickness of response.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red 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 Red 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch is known for its neutral sound profile with a medium-high pitch that provides a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch offers a low-pitched sound with a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Both switches are described as having a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for a variety of environments and purposes. Ultimately, the sound of a switch will also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch is praised for its creamy, mild, polished, and silky typing experience. This means that users can expect a smooth and buttery sensation while typing, with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch is described as offering a mild typing experience, which is gentle and approachable to most users. Both switches provide a comfortable medium-light bottom-out force, ensuring a pleasant typing experience for users.
In conclusion, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch offer similar qualities in terms of sound and feel. Users can expect a neutral sound profile with a medium-high pitch from the G Pro 3.0 Red and a low-pitched sound from the Windy Shadow. Both switches provide a comfortable typing experience, with the G Pro 3.0 Red offering a creamy and silky feel, while the Windy Shadow offers a mild typing experience. Ultimately, users can expect a pleasant and satisfying typing experience from either switch, depending on their personal preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, you should consider your preferences for actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a lighter actuation force of 50 grams and a medium-high pitch sound profile, the G Pro 3.0 Red may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a low-pitched sound profile with a distinctive bounce from the extended spring, the Aflion Windy Shadow may be more suitable for your typing needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preferences and typing style.
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