Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for the perfect mechanical keyboard switch for your gaming or typing needs, two popular options stand out: the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Aflion Windy Shadow. The G Pro 3.0 Silver, a linear switch from Gateron's budget-friendly G Pro line-up, boasts a shorter travel distance of 3.4mm, providing lightning-fast responsiveness that can give you a competitive edge in gaming. With vibrant RGB lighting and a medium-high pitch for an exhilarating auditory experience, these switches offer unmatched value for gamers. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switches offer a neutral sound profile and a distinctive bounce from their extended spring, making them a comfortable choice at a 55g bottom-out. Both switches have their 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
22mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
19.7mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Aflion Windy Shadow feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches that will be used with RGB lighting due to its translucency. This material choice ensures that both switches offer a similar auditory experience when typing, as the characteristics of polycarbonate remain consistent across both products.
In terms of bottom housings, both the G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Windy Shadow utilize nylon, a classic switch housing material that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is softer than polycarbonate and absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. This choice of material for the bottom housing ensures that both switches provide a consistent typing experience in terms of sound, despite any differences in the top housing material. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings will have a noticeable impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the keys.
While the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Aflion Windy Shadow may differ in terms of top and bottom housings, the overall typing experience is likely to be quite similar. The combination of polycarbonate top housings for a sharper sound profile and nylon bottom housings for a deeper sound creates a balanced typing experience in both switches. Whether it's the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel from the bottom housing or the sound when releasing a key from the top housing, users can expect a consistent and enjoyable typing experience from both the G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Windy Shadow.
Weight
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. In terms of bottom out force, the G Pro 3.0 Silver requires 50 grams, while the Windy Shadow needs 55 grams, making it slightly heavier. The lighter actuation force of the G Pro 3.0 Silver may appeal to those who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow offers a slightly heavier bottom out force for users who prefer a more solid and substantial typing feel. Both switches provide different options for users based on their preference for actuation force and bottom out force, ensuring that they can achieve their desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance, making them popular choices for gamers seeking faster response times. The G Pro 3.0 Silver offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which can provide a quicker and more responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow's slightly longer travel distance may offer a bit more depth to the keypress, which some users may prefer for a more tactile feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference for either a shorter or slightly longer travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver has an MSRP of $3.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Silver for $3.27.
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 Silver switch is known for its bassy and low-pitched tones, providing a deep and satisfying auditory experience during key presses. The medium-high pitch adds a unique element to the sound profile, enhancing the overall gaming atmosphere. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow switch offers a more neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for various purposes. While both switches offer enjoyable sound experiences, the G Pro 3.0 Silver leans towards a richer bass-heavy tone compared to the Windy Shadow's more balanced profile.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switch is described as buttery and creamy, providing a smooth and effortless typing sensation. The seamless keystroke experience adds to the overall comfort and satisfaction of using these switches during intense gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow offers a mild typing experience, making it approachable to a wide range of users with its gentle characteristics. Both switches offer different levels of feedback and tactility, catering to various preferences in typing feel.
Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch provide unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. While the G Pro 3.0 Silver offers a bassy and buttery experience, the Windy Shadow provides a more neutral sound profile and mild typing feel. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, you can achieve a satisfying typing and gaming experience with either of these switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a gaming-oriented switch with faster responsiveness and vibrant RGB lighting, the G Pro 3.0 Silver may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and a neutral sound profile with a distinctive bounce, the Aflion Windy Shadow might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the specific qualities you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch. Choose the switch that aligns with your typing style, gaming needs, and overall typing experience.
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