Outemu Lime (V3) vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Outemu Lime (V3) and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch. The Lime switches are recognized for their unique lightweight design, approachable tactility, and silencing capabilities, making them ideal for tactile enthusiasts seeking a feather-light typing experience with a subtle touch of tactility. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow switches from Aflion offer a neutral sound profile and a distinctive bounce due to their extended spring, providing a comfortable typing experience at a 55g bottom-out weight. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics that cater to different 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
35g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
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
The Outemu Lime and the Aflion Windy Shadow both utilize nylon for their bottom housing, resulting in a similar deep and full sound profile when typing. Nylon is known for its softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. This shared housing material ensures that both switches offer a satisfying and immersive typing experience with a consistent sound profile throughout each keystroke.
In contrast, the top housings of the Outemu Lime and the Aflion Windy Shadow differ significantly, with the Lime featuring a nylon top housing and the Windy Shadow incorporating a polycarbonate top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Windy Shadow produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the deeper and fuller sound profile of the nylon top housing in the Lime. Additionally, the polycarbonate material is stiffer than nylon, leading to a more clear and resonant sound profile. This variation in top housing material results in a distinct auditory experience for each switch, catering to different preferences in sound profiles.
Despite the differences in their top housing materials, both the Outemu Lime and the Aflion Windy Shadow offer a unique typing experience that combines the qualities of their respective housing materials. The split between the bottom and top housing allows users to feel the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while experiencing the influence of the top housing on the sound when releasing a key. Whether preferring the deeper and fuller sound profile of the nylon housing in the Lime or the sharper and crisper sound profile of the polycarbonate housing in the Windy Shadow, both switches provide a dynamic and customizable typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, we can see that the Lime has a lighter actuation force of 35 grams compared to the Windy Shadow, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Windy Shadow has a heavier bottom out force of 55 grams compared to the Lime's 45 grams. This makes the Lime lighter overall in terms of force required for both actuation and bottoming out. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Lime, while those who prefer a slightly more substantial feel may opt for the Windy Shadow. Both switches offer different levels of force that cater to individual preferences, ensuring that users can find the right balance between typing comfort and feedback.
Travel distance
The Outemu Lime tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Windy Shadow has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Lime switch. Both switches fall within the shorter range of traditional travel distances, which is preferred by gamers for faster response times. Choosing between the two will depend on personal preference - those who prefer a more responsive feel may lean towards the Lime switch, while those who prefer a slightly deeper press may opt for the Windy Shadow. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar experience due to their relatively close travel distances.
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 Outemu Lime (V3) comes in at $3.40 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 Outemu Lime tactile switch offers a muted sound profile, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards, making it suitable for both home and work environments. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch provides a low-pitched tone that is more bass-heavy and mellow compared to higher-pitched switches, creating a distinct sound experience. Depending on your preference for sound, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, both the Lime and the Windy Shadow are described as providing a mild typing experience, making them approachable to most users. The Lime switch, known for its feathery light actuation force and subtle resistance, offers a comfortable typing experience with reduced finger fatigue. Similarly, the Windy Shadow switch falls into the mild category, providing a gentle typing feel that is suitable for various typing tasks. Whether you prefer a lighter touch or a more neutral typing experience, both switches offer qualities that cater to different preferences.
Considering all the available information, the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch each have their unique strengths in terms of sound and feel. While the Lime switch is favored for its muted sound and feathery light typing experience, the Windy Shadow switch stands out with its low-pitched tone and mild typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you desire. If you enjoy a quieter typing experience with a light touch, the Lime switch may be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a more mellow sound profile and a mild typing feel, the Windy Shadow switch could be the better option for you.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Lime tactile switch or the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you prefer a lightweight switch with a touch of tactility and a muted sound profile, the Lime switches would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light linear switch with a distinctive bounce and low-pitched sound profile, the Windy Shadow switches would be more suitable for your typing style. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider what you prioritize in your typing experience before making a decision. Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Lime and Aflion Windy Shadow switches depends on your personal preference for typing feel and sound.
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