TTC Gold Silver vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Silver and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two standout options to explore are the TTC Gold Silver and the Aflion Windy Shadow. The Gold Silver is revered for its rapid responsiveness, offering a shortened travel distance that culminates in a decisive and solid bottom-out with each keystroke. Its resonant sound signature further emphasizes its commitment to swift action, while the smooth journey from press to bottoming out adds fluidity to every key press. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow from Aflion boasts a neutral sound profile and a distinctive bounce thanks to its extended spring, creating a comfortable medium-light typing experience. While the Gold Silver leans towards a polished, thocky feel, the Windy Shadow offers a low-pitched and mild typing experience. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
NPI
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
18mm spring
Spring
19.7mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the TTC Gold Silver and the Aflion Windy Shadow feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisp sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. This results in a more clear and resonant sound, especially ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, despite both switches using the same material for their top housings, the aesthetic appeal may vary based on the design or additional features of each switch.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Gold Silver and the Windy Shadow utilize nylon, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to other materials. Since nylon is softer and absorbs more sound than harder plastics, it creates a duller and rounder sound effect. This material choice impacts the overall typing experience and the sound produced when the switch is pressed down, making it an essential component in achieving a specific sound profile desired by users.
The distinction between the top and bottom housing materials in switches like the TTC Gold Silver and the Aflion Windy Shadow highlights how each material contributes differently to the overall sound profile and typing experience. While polycarbonate top housings enhance the release sound of keys and are visually appealing with RGB lighting, nylon bottom housings impact the bottom-out sound and feeling when pressing down on the switch. Understanding how these materials interact in the construction of switches can help users choose the best option based on their preferences for sound and typing feedback.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Silver and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switches, it's clear that they offer different experiences. The TTC Gold Silver requires a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes quickly. However, its bottom out force is unknown, so it's uncertain how much pressure is needed to fully press the keys. In contrast, the Aflion Windy Shadow has a medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams, offering a more substantial typing experience. While its actuation force is unknown, the heavier bottom out force indicates that it may provide a more satisfying tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and the desired weight of the keys.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key using either of these switches, users will experience a consistent travel distance before actuation. Therefore, whether using the Gold Silver or the Windy Shadow switch, users can expect similar results in terms of key feel and responsiveness. Both switches offer a standard travel distance, making them suitable choices for those looking for a linear switch with a moderate key travel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Silver has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Silver for $2.90.
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 TTC Gold Silver switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched characteristics, resulting in a deep and satisfying sound profile. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow switch offers a neutral and low-pitched sound, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Both switches offer a moderate sound profile suitable for various settings, but the Gold Silver may provide a more resonant and decisive sound experience due to its design.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the TTC Gold Silver switch is described as polished, silky, mild, and subtle, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with gentle resistance. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow switch is characterized as mild, providing a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Both switches aim to offer a comfortable typing feel, with the Gold Silver potentially providing a more polished and refined touch due to its design features.
In conclusion, while both the TTC Gold Silver and Aflion Windy Shadow linear switches share some similarities in sound and feel profiles, they also have their distinct qualities that set them apart. The Gold Silver switch emphasizes rapid responsiveness, smooth keystrokes, and a resonant sound signature, making it ideal for those seeking a precise and fluid typing experience. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow switch offers a neutral sound profile, a comfortable medium-light bottom-out force, and a gentle typing feel, catering to users looking for a mellow and approachable switch option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing characteristics.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a keyboard switch that prioritizes speed, precision, and a unique sound profile, the TTC Gold Silver linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. With its rapid responsiveness, smooth keypresses, and resonant sound signature, the Gold Silver offers a satisfying typing experience with every keystroke. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that delivers a medium-light typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch is a great option. With its smooth feel and comfortable 55g bottom-out force, the Windy Shadow provides a gentle typing experience suitable for various settings. Ultimately, your decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and actuation force.
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