HMX Lotus vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the HMX Lotus and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, both offer unique features and benefits to consider. The HMX Lotus switch is known for its medium weight of 50g bottom-out and bright, resonant sound, providing a super bouncy feeling with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow switch emerges as a noteworthy option with its 55g bottom-out weight and neutral sound profile, paired with a distinctive bounce from its extended spring. While the Lotus switch may appeal to those seeking a more tactile and audible typing experience, the Windy Shadow switch is better suited for those looking for a lighter touch and a quieter 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
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 Lotus and the Aflion Windy Shadow, we can see a clear distinction in the materials used for both the top and bottom housings. The Lotus utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow employs polycarbonate for its top housing, creating a sharper and crisper sound profile. While both materials have their own unique sound characteristics, nylon tends to produce a duller and rounder sound, while polycarbonate produces a more resonant and clear sound.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the two switches, both the Lotus and the Windy Shadow provide a satisfying typing experience. The nylon top housing of the Lotus absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Windy Shadow creates a sharper and crisper sound. Additionally, both switches feature nylon bottom housings, which contribute to the overall sound profile and feel of the keys. Ultimately, while the sound profiles may differ slightly due to the housing materials, both switches offer a unique and enjoyable typing experience.
In terms of aesthetics, the choice of housing material plays a significant role. The Lotus's nylon top housing provides a classic look and feel, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Windy Shadow offers a more modern and translucent appearance, ideal for RGB lighting effects. While both switches may have different material compositions for their top and bottom housings, the overall typing experience is likely to be similar in terms of key feel and sound profile. Whether you prefer the deeper sound of nylon or the sharper sound of polycarbonate, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience with unique characteristics based on their housing materials.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch exhibit some differences. The Lotus has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, offering a gentle typing experience. In contrast, the Windy Shadow's actuation force is not specified, but it has a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Lotus. The difference in bottom out force means that the Windy Shadow may provide a more substantial typing feel compared to the Lotus. Ultimately, individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Lotus, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance may opt for the Windy Shadow. Both switches offer unique typing experiences, catering to different preferences while ensuring a comfortable typing experience.
Travel distance
The HMX Lotus and Aflion Windy Shadow linear switches both have a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making them identical in that aspect. When it comes to comparing and contrasting the travel distance between these switches, it is clear that both offer the same tactile experience in terms of how far the switch travels from the top to the bottom. Users can expect a consistent typing feel with either switch, ensuring that the keypresses are smooth and precise. Thus, whether you opt for the Lotus or the Windy Shadow, you can rest assured that you will get similar results in terms of travel distance and overall performance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Lotus has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lotus 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 Lotus linear switch is renowned for its bright and resonant sound profile, providing a super bouncy feeling with every keystroke. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound, creating a more bass-heavy and mellow tone suitable for various purposes. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that can enhance the typing experience, depending on individual preferences and setup.
In terms of feel, the HMX Lotus linear switch offers a medium weight of 50g bottom out, providing a satisfying and responsive typing experience. Meanwhile, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch features a mild typing experience, offering a gentle feel with a 55g bottom-out weight. Both switches aim to strike a balance between comfort and responsiveness, catering to users who prefer a moderate typing experience without compromising on performance.
Overall, the HMX Lotus and Aflion Windy Shadow linear switches offer distinct sound and feel qualities that appeal to different preferences. While the Lotus provides a brighter sound and medium weight feel, the Windy Shadow offers a low-pitched sound and mild typing experience. Depending on whether you prefer a bouncy and resonant feel or a gentle and neutral sound, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience. With their unique qualities, both switches offer reliable performance and comfort for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, when it comes to choosing between the HMX Lotus linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, you should consider a few key factors. If you prefer a lighter bottom-out force and a brighter, resonant sound with a super bouncy feeling, the Lotus switch with its 50g bottom out force is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom-out force and a neutral sound profile with a distinctive bounce from an extended spring, the Windy Shadow with its 55g bottom-out force would be the better choice. Ultimately, the decision should come down to your personal preference in terms of sound and feel, so choose the switch that best fits your typing style and preferences.
Mentioned in this article
