TTC Iron vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the TTC Iron and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Iron linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, it's clear that both have unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The TTC Iron is renowned for its clacky sound signature and remarkably light actuation, making it ideal for those who enjoy a satisfying auditory feedback while typing swiftly and comfortably. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow offers a neutral sound profile with a distinctive bounce from its extended spring, providing a comfortable medium-light bottom-out feel. Both switches fall under the category of 'Mild' and 'Neutral', but the TTC Iron leans towards being 'Easy-to-press' and 'Clacky', while the Windy Shadow is 'Low-pitched'. 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
41g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
19.7mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The TTC Iron and Aflion Windy Shadow both have unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Iron features a POM top and bottom housing, which creates a deep and muted sound. In contrast, the Windy Shadow utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound. The use of POM in the Iron provides a more subdued typing experience, while the polycarbonate in the Windy Shadow offers a more vibrant and clear sound. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles due to their housing materials, catering to different preferences in terms of typing experience.
While the top housing materials of the TTC Iron and Aflion Windy Shadow differ, their bottom housing materials also showcase unique characteristics. The Iron's POM bottom housing contributes to a deeper sound profile, similar to its top housing. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow features a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a fuller sound. Nylon's softer plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to POM. These differences in bottom housing materials between the two switches offer users a variety of options to consider based on their preference for sound and typing feel.
When examining the overall typing experience of the TTC Iron and Aflion Windy Shadow, it is important to consider how the top and bottom housing materials interact to create a unique sound profile. The bottom housing material has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, with POM in the Iron providing a deeper sensation compared to nylon in the Windy Shadow. Conversely, the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key, with the polycarbonate in the Windy Shadow offering a crisper sound compared to the POM in the Iron. Despite their differences, both switches showcase the importance of housing materials in determining the overall sound and feel of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Iron linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, it is evident that the Iron switch is lighter in both aspects. The Iron switch has an actuation force of 41 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Windy Shadow switch has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 55 grams, which is slightly heavier. The Iron switch provides a lighter typing experience compared to the Windy Shadow switch, making it more suitable for those who prefer typing for extended periods without fatigue. However, for users who enjoy a bit more resistance and a more substantial typing feel, the Windy Shadow switch may be the preferable option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing force and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Iron linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular among users looking for quicker response times, especially gamers. The TTC Iron offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more substantial feeling when typing compared to the slightly shorter travel distance of the Aflion Windy Shadow. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Iron has an MSRP of $5.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Iron for $4.30.
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
The TTC Iron linear switch is known for its pronounced clacky sound signature, providing a sharp and snappy sound with each press, adding a satisfying auditory element to typing. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, creating a more bass-heavy and mellow tone with a moderate actuation force requirement. In terms of feel, the Iron switch is described as easy-to-press and mild, offering gentle resistance during key presses and a comfortable typing experience. Similarly, the Windy Shadow switch is also described as mild, providing a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users.
Overall, the TTC Iron linear switch excels in providing a clacky sound with easy-to-press actuation, making it a suitable choice for those seeking a distinctive typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch offers a neutral sound profile and a mild typing experience, catering to a wider range of users looking for a comfortable and versatile switch. Depending on individual preference for sound and feel, both switches present unique qualities that can enhance the overall typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the TTC Iron and Aflion Windy Shadow switches would depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
In summary, when considering whether to choose the TTC Iron linear switch or the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, you should take into account your preferences for sound and feel. If you enjoy a clacky sound profile with an easy-to-press typing experience, the TTC Iron switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a low-pitched sound with a mild typing experience, the Aflion Windy Shadow switch may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience you value most and which characteristics align with your personal preferences.
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