TTC Gold Red vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the TTC Gold Red and the Aflion Windy Shadow. The Gold Red linear switches are favored for their buttery smooth typing experience and light-medium level of resistance. With a snappy sound profile that adds a touch of personality without being too overwhelming, these switches are categorized as 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Silky', 'Subtle', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switches have gained attention for their neutral sound profile and distinctive bounce from the extended spring. At a 55g bottom-out, they offer a comfortably medium-light feel and are categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Mild', and 'Neutral'. Both switches have their own unique features that make them appealing choices for 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
43g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
19.7mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The TTC Gold Red and Aflion Windy Shadow both feature polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which creates a more resonant sound. Additionally, both switches use clear polycarbonate housings, making them ideal for showcasing RGB lighting. However, the differences may lie in the design or branding of each switch, as the materials and resulting sound profiles are very similar.
When it comes to the bottom housing material, the Gold Red utilizes nylon, while the Windy Shadow also features a nylon bottom housing. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Despite having the same bottom housing material, slight variations in design or construction may lead to subtle differences in typing experience between the two switches.
In terms of overall typing experience, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in both the Gold Red and Windy Shadow offers a balanced sound profile. The bottom housing material impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key. This balance ensures a satisfying typing experience for users of both switches, with nuanced differences potentially coming down to personal preference or specific sound preferences.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, we can see that the Gold Red is lighter in terms of both forces. The Gold Red has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Windy Shadow has an actuation force of None grams (unknown) and a bottom out force of 55 grams. Since the actuation force of the Windy Shadow is unknown, we cannot definitively say which one is lighter in terms of actuation force. However, it is clear that the Gold Red has a lighter bottom out force compared to the Windy Shadow. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Gold Red may be the better choice, especially for longer typing sessions. However, for those who prefer a stronger push feel, the Windy Shadow may provide a more substantial typing experience due to its slightly heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force required.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold 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. In this case, the Windy Shadow has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Gold Red. The Gold Red's 4 mm travel distance falls within the traditional range, offering a balance between responsiveness and depth. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow's 3.5 mm travel distance is slightly shorter, catering to those who prefer a quicker response time. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red for $3.28.
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
When comparing the sound qualities of the TTC Gold Red and Aflion Windy Shadow linear switches, both switches are noted for their low-pitched and neutral sound profiles. The Gold Red switch, however, adds a thocky element to its sound, providing a deep and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow switch offers a distinctive bounce from its extended spring mechanism, adding a unique touch to the typing sound. Ultimately, both switches offer pleasant typing sounds that can enhance the overall typing experience depending on personal preferences and accompanying keyboard setup.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, both the Gold Red and Windy Shadow are described as offering a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users. The Gold Red switch is praised for its silky and subtle feel, providing a smooth typing experience with gentle resistance. Additionally, the polished finish of the Gold Red switch contributes to reduced friction and a sleek key travel. Similarly, the Windy Shadow switch offers a mild typing experience that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone in terms of feel. Overall, both switches deliver a comfortable typing feel that can cater to a wide range of users, making them versatile options for various typing preferences.
In conclusion, both the TTC Gold Red and Aflion Windy Shadow linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Gold Red switch is known for its thocky sound profile and silky, polished feel, the Windy Shadow switch stands out with its distinctive bounce and comfortable medium-light actuation force. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. However, both switches promise a pleasant and satisfying typing experience that can elevate your overall keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, consider your preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a buttery smooth typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a snappy sound profile, the Gold Red may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a neutral sound profile with a distinctive bounce from an extended spring and a comfortably medium-light bottom-out force, the Windy Shadow could be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you desire.
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