KTT Laurel vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the KTT Laurel and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Laurel and Aflion Windy Shadow linear switches stand out as popular options for different reasons. The KTT Laurel is praised for its full POM housing which contributes to a responsive yet comfortable typing experience, accompanied by a subtly low-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow offers a neutral sound profile with a distinctive bounce from its extended spring and a comfortable 55g bottom-out weight. Both switches fall under the category of 'Low-pitched' sound, but the KTT Laurel is described as 'Snappy' while the Aflion Windy Shadow is labeled as 'Mild' and 'Neutral'. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. 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
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.80 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
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
22m spring
Spring
19.7mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Laurel, specifically the POM top and bottom housings, create a sound profile that is deep and muted. In contrast, the Aflion Windy Shadow utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile. The POM material of the Laurel absorbs less sound compared to the softer nylon material used in the Windy Shadow's bottom housing, resulting in a more resonant and clear sound. While the POM top housing of the Laurel provides a unique sound experience, the polycarbonate top housing of the Windy Shadow offers a crisper sound that is ideal for RGB lighting due to its translucency.
In terms of aesthetics, the Aflion Windy Shadow with its polycarbonate top housing is more visually appealing for those looking to incorporate RGB lighting. The clear housing of the polycarbonate material allows for a better display of lighting effects compared to the opaque POM material used in the KTT Laurel. However, the POM material of the Laurel does provide a unique sound profile that some users may prefer over the sharper sound produced by the polycarbonate material. Additionally, the nylon bottom housing of the Windy Shadow contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, contrasting with the relatively more muted sound of the POM bottom housing in the Laurel.
Overall, the choice between the KTT Laurel and the Aflion Windy Shadow will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. The split of housing materials in each switch allows for a unique typing experience, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has more influence on the sound when a key is released. Both switches offer distinct qualities in their housing materials, whether it be the deeper and muted sound of POM in the Laurel or the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate in the Windy Shadow.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Laurel linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, it is evident that the Laurel is lighter in both aspects. The Laurel has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Windy Shadow's actuation force is not specified, but it has a bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that the Windy Shadow requires a slightly heavier push to fully press down the key compared to the Laurel. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Laurel make it more suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions where fatigue may be a concern. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow offers a slightly more substantial typing experience with its slightly heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for a lighter or slightly heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
The KTT Laurel linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch both have the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom will feel exactly the same. Both switches offer a consistent typing experience in this aspect, making them equally suitable for users looking for a particular travel distance. Whether you choose the Laurel or the Windy Shadow, you can expect similar results in terms of typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Laurel has an MSRP of $4.42 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Laurel for $3.95.
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, both the KTT Laurel and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches are described as having a low-pitched profile. This means that they both offer a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to switches with higher-pitched sounds. While the Laurel maintains a subtly low-pitched sound, the Windy Shadow is also categorized as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various typing environments. Keep in mind that the sound produced by switches can be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's build and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the KTT Laurel is known for its snappy response, providing a super responsive typing experience. This is often attributed to the longer or dual-staged springs present in the switch, enhancing the liveliness of each keystroke. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow offers a mild feel, delivering a gentler typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. This makes the Windy Shadow approachable to most users, as its qualities fall within a safe middle-ground zone in terms of tactile feedback.
In conclusion, both the KTT Laurel and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Laurel provides a low-pitched sound and a snappy typing experience, the Windy Shadow boasts a neutral sound profile and a mild feel. Depending on your preference for sound and typing feedback, either switch can deliver a satisfying typing experience. Additionally, both switches fall under the category of medium-light linear switches, ensuring that you can expect similar results in terms of actuation force and overall typing comfort. Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Laurel and Aflion Windy Shadow will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking to achieve.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the KTT Laurel linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a lighter bottom-out force of 50 grams and enjoy a low-pitched sound profile with a snappy feel, the Laurel switch may be the best option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom-out force of 55 grams, a neutral sound profile, and a mild typing experience, the Windy Shadow switch may be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the specific characteristics that align with your typing style. Consider trying out both switches to determine which one offers the best typing experience for you.
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