Dareu Mahjong vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Dareu Mahjong and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Mahjong linear switch to the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Mahjong switches from Dareu are known for their distinctive green and white color scheme, lively sound signature, and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadows provide a neutral sound profile with a distinctive bounce from their extended spring, offering a comfortable medium-light 55g bottom-out. While the Mahjong switch may appeal to those seeking a bouncy and polished typing experience, the Windy Shadow switch could be the choice for individuals looking for a low-pitched and mild switch. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
19.7mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Mahjong and the Aflion Windy Shadow, one can see that they both utilize different materials for their top housing. The Mahjong features a POK top housing, known for its smoothness and durability, creating a clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow opts for a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. While both materials offer their unique characteristics, the POK material in the Mahjong focuses more on smoothness and durability, while the polycarbonate in the Windy Shadow emphasizes sound clarity and resonance.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials of the two switches, both the Mahjong and the Windy Shadow utilize nylon for this component. Nylon is known for creating a deep and fuller sound profile due to its softness and sound absorption properties. Therefore, despite using different materials for their top housings, both switches offer similar sound profiles when it comes to bottom-out sound and feel. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches creates a rounder and duller sound compared to harder plastics, providing a unique typing experience for users.
Overall, while the top and bottom housing materials differ between the Dareu Mahjong and the Aflion Windy Shadow, they both offer unique benefits to the switches. The POK material in the Mahjong emphasizes smoothness and durability, leading to a clacky sound profile, while the polycarbonate in the Windy Shadow focuses on sound clarity and resonance. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing in both switches provides a deep and fuller sound profile, enhancing the typing experience for users. Whether you prefer smoothness and durability or sharpness and clarity in your switches, both the Mahjong and the Windy Shadow deliver exceptional performance based on their housing materials.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, it is evident that they offer different experiences to the user. The Mahjong has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes, while the Windy Shadow does not disclose its actuation force. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow has a heavier bottom out force of 55 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience when compared to the Mahjong, which does not specify its bottom out force. The choice between these switches ultimately comes down to personal preference - whether one prefers a lighter actuation for extended periods of typing or a heavier bottom out force for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, users can expect a similar typing experience if both switches have the same actuation and bottom out forces, fulfilling their specific needs and preferences.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Dareu Mahjong linear switch is 3.4 mm, while the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Mahjong slightly shorter in travel distance compared to the Windy Shadow. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers looking for fast response times. However, some may find the shorter travel distance of the Mahjong to feel too abrupt, while others may prefer the slightly longer travel distance of the Windy Shadow for a more substantial feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Mahjong has an MSRP of $8.89 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mahjong for $5.79.
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 Mahjong linear switch offers a neutral sound profile suitable for various settings and users, while the Windy Shadow linear switch provides a low-pitched tone with a mellow quality. Both switches have a moderate actuation force requirement, making them versatile for different typing preferences. The final sound outcome will also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used in conjunction with these switches.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Mahjong linear switch is noted for its bouncy and polished typing experience, giving users a lively rebound and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow linear switch offers a mild typing experience that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone in terms of feel. Both switches cater to a comfortable typing sensation, making them suitable for extended use without causing fatigue.
In conclusion, both the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch provide distinct sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences. While the Mahjong switch offers a bouncier and more polished typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the Windy Shadow switch delivers a mild feel and a low-pitched sound. Ultimately, users can expect similar typing results in terms of comfort and usability with either switch, depending on their personal preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, consider the following recommendations. If you prefer a switch with a unique color scheme, lively sound signature, and effortless typing experience, the Mahjong would be an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-light bottom-out force, a neutral sound profile, and a distinctive bounce from an extended spring, the Windy Shadow would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. Both switches offer their own unique qualities, so choose the one that aligns best with your preferences.
Mentioned in this article
