Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Aflion Windy Shadow both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro is a linear switch that provides a smooth and substantial feel, making it ideal for those who enjoy a solid and responsive keystroke. With a satisfyingly sharp bottom-out and clear tactile feedback, typists and gamers alike will appreciate the resonant clacks produced by these switches. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow is also a linear switch but offers a neutral sound profile with a distinctive bounce from its extended spring. At a 55g bottom-out, these switches provide a comfortably medium-light typing experience. Each switch has its own distinct characteristics that may appeal to different users, but 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
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
19.7mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Aflion Windy Shadow feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in both switches leads to a clear and resonant sound, making them ideal for users who prefer a more distinct typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, adding a visually appealing element to the switches.
In contrast, the V3 Matcha Green Pro and the Windy Shadow differ in their bottom housing material. The V3 Matcha Green Pro utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate top housing. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow also features a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience with a focus on creating a more muted sound output.
Overall, while both switches boast polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and clear sound, they diverge in their bottom housing materials. The V3 Matcha Green Pro offers a deeper and fuller sound profile with its nylon bottom housing, while the Windy Shadow provides a similar experience with its own nylon bottom housing. However, the impact of the bottom housing on the sound when pressing down on a key, and the impact of the top housing on the sound when releasing a key, can vary between the two switches.
Weight
The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the Windy Shadow is lighter at 55 grams, while the V3 Matcha Green Pro has a bottom out force of 63 grams. Both switches fall within the medium range of actuation and bottom out forces, providing a balanced typing experience for users. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions, the Windy Shadow may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the V3 Matcha Green Pro. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing force and feedback.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 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 shorter travel distance compared to the V3 Matcha Green Pro. The difference may not be significant, but it can still affect the overall feel and responsiveness of the switch. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Windy Shadow with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more pronounced keystroke may lean towards the V3 Matcha Green Pro with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing or gaming experience desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro has an MSRP of $4.66 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Matcha Green Pro for $2.20.
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 Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switches are known for their clacky and resonant characteristics, producing sharp and crisp noises that create an immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow switches offer a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, with a more bass-heavy and mellow tone suitable for various environments. Both switches provide unique auditory feedback that can enhance your typing and gaming experience, depending on your preferences and setup.
In terms of feel, the V3 Matcha Green Pro switches offer a bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky typing experience, with spring-like elastic feedback and a smooth, buttery sensation that minimizes resistance when pressing keys. In contrast, the Aflion Windy Shadow switches provide a mild typing experience, offering a gentle and approachable feel that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone. Both switches prioritize comfort and responsiveness, ensuring that keystrokes are satisfying and enjoyable for users with different preferences.
Overall, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switches and Aflion Windy Shadow linear switches each have their unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Matcha Green Pro switches offer a sharper bottom-out and resonant clacks, the Windy Shadow switches provide a neutral sound profile with a distinctive bounce. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you seek. Regardless of your decision, both switches are designed to provide a smooth and substantial feel, making them suitable options for typists and gamers alike.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom-out force of 63 grams and enjoy a sharp and resonant typing experience with clacky and bouncy characteristics, the V3 Matcha Green Pro would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom-out force of 55 grams and a more neutral sound profile with a low-pitched and mild feel, the Aflion Windy Shadow could be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the type of sound and feel you find most enjoyable.
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