TTC Gold Pink vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Pink and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the TTC Gold Pink and the Aflion Windy Shadow. The Gold Pink stands out for its incredibly light 37g actuation force, making it ideal for those who value a fast and effortless typing experience. With a satisfying clacky sound, these switches are perfect for rapid typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow from Aflion offers a neutral sound profile and a distinctive bounce from its extended spring, providing a medium-light typing experience with a 55g bottom-out. Both switches have their own unique characteristics and 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
37g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
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
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
19.7mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The TTC Gold Pink and Aflion Windy Shadow both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. This results in a more clear and resonant sound when typing on these switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting effects to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switches. Similarly, the nylon bottom housings of both switches provide a deeper and fuller sound profile, with nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics.
However, where the two switches differ is in the overall distribution of the housing materials. The Gold Pink has a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, while the Windy Shadow features both polycarbonate top and bottom housings. This means that the qualities of the nylon bottom housing in the Gold Pink will impact the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the polycarbonate top housing will affect the sound when releasing a key. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow will have a more consistent sound profile throughout the typing experience, with both the top and bottom housings contributing to the overall sound and feel of the switch.
In conclusion, while both the TTC Gold Pink and Aflion Windy Shadow share similar qualities in terms of their housing materials, the distribution of these materials in each switch results in a slightly different typing experience. Whether you prefer a more consistent sound profile with both polycarbonate and nylon housings like in the Windy Shadow, or enjoy the split qualities between top and bottom housings in the Gold Pink, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for sound, feel, and aesthetics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, it is evident that the Gold Pink is the lighter option. The Gold Pink has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a light switch overall. In contrast, the Windy Shadow has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 55 grams, which falls into the medium-light category. Those looking for a light and easy typing experience may prefer the Gold Pink, while those who enjoy a slightly firmer typing feel may opt for the Windy Shadow. Both switches offer a smooth linear feel, but the difference in force may result in a distinct typing experience for users.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, the Gold Pink has a travel distance of 4 mm while the Windy Shadow has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Gold Pink has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Windy Shadow. The Gold Pink falls into the more traditional range of travel distances, offering a balance between responsiveness and depth, while the Windy Shadow falls on the shorter end, making it ideal for those seeking quicker response times, such as gamers. Both switches provide a different tactile experience due to their varying travel distances, with the Gold Pink offering a bit more depth to the keypress compared to the Windy Shadow's shorter travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and desired keypress experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Pink has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Pink for $4.28.
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 Gold Pink switch offers a clacky sound that provides satisfying feedback during typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow switch has a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. The choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the overall sound experience desired, with the Gold Pink providing a more tactile feedback while the Windy Shadow offering a smoother and more neutral sound.
When it comes to feel, the Gold Pink switch is described as buttery, mild, feathery, subtle, and polished. These qualities provide a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, a gentle typing sensation, light actuation force to reduce finger fatigue, a gentle resistance for comfortable typing, and a sleek typing experience due to refined finish, respectively. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow switch is described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience without more pronounced characteristics. Both switches provide a comfortable typing experience but with slightly different nuances in terms of feel.
Overall, the Gold Pink switch is best suited for those who prefer a light and lively typing experience with tactile feedback, while the Windy Shadow switch is ideal for those who prefer a more neutral sound profile and a comfortable medium-light typing feel. Both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance the overall typing or gaming experience, so choosing between the two will depend on individual preferences and desired typing characteristics. Regardless of the choice, both switches are designed to provide a satisfying and efficient typing experience for users.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you value a light and lively typing experience with a low bottom-out force of 45 grams, opt for the Gold Pink. These switches are perfect for rapid typing or gaming due to their fast and effortless keystrokes. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light touch with a 55g bottom-out force and a distinctive bounce from an extended spring, the Windy Shadow may be more suitable for you. Both switches offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and preferences. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you are looking for.
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