Gateron Ink Box Black vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Black 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 Gateron Ink Box Black and the Aflion Windy Shadow. The Ink Box Black is well-known for its incredibly smooth and creamy feel, with a sound signature that resembles a spray paint can being shaken. Categorized as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Silky', and 'Polished', this linear switch offers a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow has gained attention for its neutral sound profile and distinctive bounce thanks to an extended spring mechanism. At a 55g bottom-out, they provide a comfortable medium-light feel. Classified as 'Low-pitched', 'Mild', and 'Neutral', these switches offer a different typing experience compared to the Gateron Ink Box Black. 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
60g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
19.7mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Aflion Windy Shadow, one noticeable difference lies in the top housing. The Ink Box Black features a proprietary INK blend top housing that produces a thin, high-pitched sound described as clacky. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper and crisper sound profile. While both materials offer unique sound characteristics, the polycarbonate in the Windy Shadow's housing provides a more resonant and clear sound compared to the INK blend used in the Ink Box Black.
Moving on to the bottom housing of the switches, the Gateron Ink Box Black once again uses their proprietary INK blend, known for creating a pointed and high-pitched sound. In contrast, the Aflion Windy Shadow incorporates a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. The nylon material effectively absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder and duller sound compared to the sharper sound produced by the INK blend in the Ink Box Black.
Considering the impact of the housing materials on the overall typing experience, it's important to note that the qualities of the top and bottom housings contribute differently to the sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing material, whether it be INK blend or nylon, will influence the bottom-out sound and feel when typing. Conversely, the material used in the top housing, such as polycarbonate for the Windy Shadow or INK blend for the Ink Box Black, will have a more significant impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both switches offer distinct sound profiles based on their housing materials, providing users with a variety of options to suit their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Ink Box Black has a higher actuation force of 60 grams and a higher bottom out force of 70 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow has an unknown actuation force and a lower bottom out force of 55 grams, categorizing it as a medium-light switch. In terms of weight, some may find the lighter actuation and bottom out force of the Windy Shadow more conducive for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may prefer the stronger push feel of the Ink Box Black for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 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. Gamers may prefer the Windy Shadow for its slightly shorter travel distance, which can provide quick response times during gameplay. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black offers a slightly longer travel distance which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more pronounced keystroke feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Box Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Box Black for $7.65.
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 Ink Box Black switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched characteristics, giving a sharp and distinct sound similar to a spray paint can being shaken. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow switch offers a more neutral and low-pitched sound profile, providing a mellow and bass-heavy tone with a comfortable medium-light 55g bottom-out. Depending on personal preference and accompanying equipment like the keyboard and keycaps used, users can expect different auditory experiences from these two switches.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Box Black switch is praised for its silky and polished typing experience, offering an exceptionally smooth and refined feel with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Conversely, the Aflion Windy Shadow switch provides a mild typing experience that falls in a safe middle-ground zone, appealing to a wider range of users with its gentle characteristics. Whether someone prefers a more pronounced smoothness or a more approachable typing feel, both switches offer unique tactile sensations to cater to different preferences.
Considering the subjective qualities of the Gateron Ink Box Black and Aflion Windy Shadow switches in terms of sound and feel, they provide distinct experiences that cater to different preferences. While the Ink Box Black excels in offering a clacky and high-pitched sound with a silky and polished feel, the Windy Shadow provides a neutral and low-pitched sound with a mild typing experience. Users can rest assured that both switches offer quality performance, but the ultimate decision between these two switches would depend on individual preferences for sound and feel in mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switches, you should consider your preferences for bottom-out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a slightly heavier actuation force and enjoy a clacky, high-pitched sound with a silky and polished typing experience, then the Ink Box Black might be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force, a neutral sound profile with a low-pitched tone, and a mild typing experience, then the Windy Shadow could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision will depend on what specific characteristics you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch, so choose the one that aligns best with your preferences and typing style.
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