HMX Jammy vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the HMX Jammy 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 HMX Jammy and the Aflion Windy Shadow, both linear switches. The HMX Jammy is best known for its softer nylon housings and glittery finish, offering a medium-weight typing experience that is both muted and deeply satisfying. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow emerges as a noteworthy manufacturer, providing a neutral sound profile and a distinctive bounce from their extended spring, all while maintaining a comfortable 55g bottom-out weight. While the Jammy is categorized as being lighter, and the Windy Shadow as low-pitched, mild, neutral, each switch offers unique advantages depending on individual 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
57g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
19.7mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX Jammy and the Aflion Windy Shadow, it is evident that they both use nylon for the bottom housing. Both switches exhibit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches equipped with nylon bottom housings. The similarity in using nylon for the bottom housing indicates that users can expect a similar experience in terms of sound and tactile feedback between the two switches.
However, the key point of divergence between the two switches lies in their top housing materials. The HMX Jammy utilizes a nylon top housing, while the Aflion Windy Shadow incorporates a polycarbonate top housing. The use of polycarbonate in the Windy Shadow's top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. In addition, the translucent nature of polycarbonate in the Windy Shadow allows for better RGB lighting effects, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switch.
Overall, the differences in top housing materials between the HMX Jammy and the Aflion Windy Shadow result in distinct typing experiences. While both switches offer deep and full sound profiles with their nylon bottom housings, the Jammy provides a more muffled and rounder sound due to its nylon top housing, whereas the Windy Shadow delivers a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate top housing. Additionally, the RGB lighting capabilities of the Windy Shadow add an extra visual element not found in the Jammy. These variations make each switch unique in terms of sound and aesthetics, catering to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Jammy linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, it is evident that the Jammy has a slightly heavier actuation force of 57 grams compared to the Windy Shadow's unknown actuation force. However, the Jammy also has a heavier bottom out force of 63 grams, while the Windy Shadow has a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that the Jammy provides a slightly more substantial typing experience with a higher actuation and bottom out force, while the Windy Shadow offers a lighter touch for those who prefer a gentler typing feel. Both switches fall into the medium category in terms of actuation and bottom out force, resulting in a similar typing experience in terms of force requirements. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The HMX Jammy linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 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 becoming increasingly popular. Gamers may prefer the Windy Shadow for its slightly faster response time due to the shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who appreciate a bit more depth in their key presses may find the Jammy to be more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Jammy has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jammy for $2.99.
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 HMX Jammy linear switch offers a softer and more muted typing experience, perfect for those who prefer a quieter keyboard. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch provides a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, with a distinctive bounce from its extended spring. Depending on personal preference, the Jammy may be more appealing to those looking for a quieter typing experience, while the Windy Shadow may be preferred by those who enjoy a slightly more pronounced sound.
In terms of feel, the HMX Jammy linear switch offers a typing experience that is smooth. Meanwhile, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch provides a mild and gentle typing experience, with qualities that fall into a safe, middle-ground zone. This makes the Windy Shadow a good option for users who prefer a softer touch when typing and may find the Jammy switches to be too firm.
Overall, both the HMX Jammy and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Jammy is known for its muted typing experience, the Windy Shadow provides a slightly more pronounced sound with a mild and gentle typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preference for sound and feel, with both switches offering a satisfying typing experience for newcomers to the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when choosing between the HMX Jammy linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, consider the bottom out force and typing experience you prefer. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and a typing experience that is muted and deeply satisfying, the Jammy switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a switch with a neutral sound profile and a distinctive bounce, the Windy Shadow switch would be a great choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound profile.
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