Gateron Jupiter Brown vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Aflion Windy Shadow stand out as compelling options, each offering unique characteristics to suit different preferences. The Jupiter Brown is a tactile switch that melds tradition with innovation, featuring a single-stage spring for a classic keystroke feel at a medium-heavy weight. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow from Aflion is a linear switch that provides a neutral sound profile and a distinctive bounce from its extended spring, with a comfortable medium-light 55g bottom-out. While the Jupiter Brown offers a tactile experience ideal for those who value precision and aesthetic appeal, the Windy Shadow appeals to individuals seeking a smooth and consistent 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
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
19.7mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
In terms of the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Aflion Windy Shadow, both switches share the same polycarbonate top housing. This material brings a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile to both switches. Due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate, it creates a clear and resonant sound when typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, making it aesthetically pleasing for those who enjoy customizable lighting effects.
However, the two switches differ in their bottom housing materials. The Jupiter Brown features a nylon bottom housing, while the Windy Shadow also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on these switches. This difference in bottom housing material may slightly impact the overall sound and feel of typing on these switches, as the bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel.
Although the top and bottom housing materials vary between the Jupiter Brown and the Windy Shadow, the qualities of each material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on either switch, you will feel the qualities of the bottom housing, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will have more of an impact on the sound when releasing a key. Both switches provide a unique typing experience due to their choice of housing materials, offering users a range of sound profiles to suit their preferences.
Weight
The Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. In contrast, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch has a lighter actuation force of None grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it a medium-light option. The Jupiter Brown will require more force to activate a keypress compared to the Windy Shadow, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel. However, for users who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions, the Windy Shadow may be the better choice. Both switches offer their own advantages depending on individual preferences, with the lighter actuation force of the Windy Shadow allowing for a smoother and faster typing experience, while the heavier actuation force of the Jupiter Brown provides a more tactile and satisfying typing feedback.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is longer than the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch with a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Jupiter Brown offers a more traditional feel with its 4 mm travel distance, while the Windy Shadow at 3.5 mm provides a shorter travel distance for those looking for quicker response times, such as gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference in regards to travel distance and key press feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Gateron Jupiter Brown comes in at $2.80 per 10 switches.
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 Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Aflion Windy Shadow offer different experiences. The Jupiter Brown is known for its traditional and classic keystroke sound profile, while the Windy Shadow provides a low-pitched and neutral sound that is more mellow and suitable for various environments. The sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, both the Jupiter Brown and the Windy Shadow are described as offering a mild typing experience. The Jupiter Brown has a polished and stepped feel, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with a medium-heavy weight. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow offers a comfortable medium-light feel with a distinctive bounce from its extended spring. Both switches fall into the category of mild switches, making them approachable to a wide range of users.
Overall, choosing between the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch will ultimately come down to personal preference. The Jupiter Brown offers a more classic typing experience with a medium-heavy weight, while the Windy Shadow provides a neutral and mellow sound profile with a comfortable medium-light feel. Whichever switch you choose, you can expect reliable performance, high-precision molds, and enhanced aesthetic appeal from both options. Ultimately, both switches will deliver a satisfying typing experience for newcomers looking to explore the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch, you should opt for them if you prefer a more traditional typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams. These switches offer a classic keystroke feel with a single-stage spring, making them ideal for those who appreciate reliability and aesthetic appeal. On the other hand, if you are looking for a more modern and lighter typing experience, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch with a 55g bottom out force may be the better choice for you. These switches provide a neutral sound profile and a distinct bounce from their extended spring, offering a comfortable medium-light feel. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound profile.
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