Gazzew LT vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Gazzew LT and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gazzew LT and the Aflion Windy Shadow mechanical keyboard switches, it's clear that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Gazzew LT, with its enticing lilac hue, is best known for its deep, resonant thockiness and seamless glide with every keystroke. Categorized as 'Bassy', 'Thocky', and 'Low-pitched', the LTs provide a satisfying auditory experience for typists. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow switches offer a neutral sound profile and a distinctive bounce from their extended spring. With a 55g bottom-out, they provide a comfortably medium-light typing experience. Categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Mild', and 'Neutral', the Windy Shadows are a great option for those looking for a smoother 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
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Spring
19.7mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gazzew LT and Aflion Windy Shadow differ significantly in their housing materials. The LT features a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, known for its softness and ability to deliver a rich and deep sound profile. In contrast, the Windy Shadow utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is stiffer and results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The choice between these two housing materials ultimately comes down to personal preference - whether you prefer a softer, more resonant sound or a clearer, more precise sound.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Gazzew LT once again boasts its proprietary Gazzew blend, which enhances the switch's sound profile with its softness. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow features a nylon bottom housing, a classic switch housing material known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature allows it to absorb more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the Gazzew blend's rich and deep sound. Again, personal preference will play a significant role in deciding which sound profile appeals to you more.
In terms of overall performance, the housing materials of the Gazzew LT and Aflion Windy Shadow impact the sound and feel of the switches differently. The Gazzew blend top and bottom housings work together to deliver a rich and deep sound, while the Windy Shadow's polycarbonate and nylon housing combination results in a sharper and fuller sound profile. The bottom housing has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct sound profiles based on their housing materials, and users should consider their preferences to determine which switch is the best fit for their needs.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gazzew LT linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, it is evident that the Windy Shadow is lighter in terms of bottom out force with 55 grams compared to the LT's 65 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. Both switches have an actuation force of None grams, indicating that they will provide a similar tactile response in terms of triggering a keystroke. The LT's heavier bottom out force may appeal to individuals seeking a more substantial typing feel, while the Windy Shadow's lighter bottom out force is ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for typing force and feel.
Travel distance
The Gazzew LT linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Windy Shadow has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the LT. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular for faster response times, especially among gamers. However, if you prefer a switch with a bit more depth and a less abrupt feel, you may lean towards the Windy Shadow with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing or gaming experience you are looking for.
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 Gazzew LT comes in at $6.50 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 conclusion, when comparing the Gazzew LT linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, the LT offers a distinct bassy and thocky sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying keystroke experience. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow presents a more neutral and low-pitched sound that is comfortable and medium-light. In terms of feel, the LT's characteristics are not specified, while the Windy Shadow offers a mild typing experience that is approachable and falls in a safe middle-ground zone. Overall, both switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences and typing styles. Depending on your preferences, you can expect similar results in certain aspects, but ultimately, trying out both switches on a personal keyboard setup would be the best way to determine which one suits you best.
Conclusion
Therefore, when deciding between the Gazzew LT linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, consider your preference for bottom-out force and sound profile. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom-out force of 65 grams and enjoy a bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound, the Gazzew LT switches may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom-out force of 55 grams and enjoy a low-pitched, neutral sound profile with a mild typing experience, the Aflion Windy Shadows might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will come down to your individual preferences for typing feel and sound characteristics.
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