SP-Star Meteor Orange vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
In the realm of mechanical keyboard switches, two standout options are the SP-Star Meteor Orange, a tactile switch, and the Aflion Windy Shadow, a linear switch. The SP-Star Meteor Orange switches are renowned for their gentle tactility and neutral sound profile, making them a popular choice for those seeking a pleasant typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switches offer a unique bounce from their extended spring and a comfortable 55g bottom-out, making them an attractive option for users who prefer a lighter touch. While both switches have their unique strengths and characteristics, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. 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
57g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Stainless steel
Spring
19.7mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Aflion Windy Shadow, we see that they both utilize nylon for the bottom housing. This common choice means that both switches will elicit a deep and full sound profile, as nylon's softer plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. However, where they differ is in the top housing material. The Meteor Orange features a nylon top housing, while the Windy Shadow utilizes polycarbonate. The nylon top housing of the Meteor Orange will produce a sound that is deeper and fuller, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Windy Shadow will create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile.
When examining the housings of the Meteor Orange and Windy Shadow, we can see that while their bottom housings are both made of nylon, their top housings differ significantly. The nylon top housing of the Meteor Orange will provide a softer and more absorbent surface, resulting in a sound that is duller and rounder. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing of the Windy Shadow will offer a stiffer surface, leading to a more clear and resonant sound profile. This contrast in materials showcases how the choice of housing material can impact the overall sound and typing experience of a switch.
Overall, the differences in top housing material between the Meteor Orange and Windy Shadow result in distinct sound profiles for each switch. The nylon top housing of the Meteor Orange produces a deeper and fuller sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Windy Shadow creates a sharper and crisper sound. While both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, allowing for a similar deep and full sound profile, the choice of top housing material plays a significant role in shaping the overall typing experience. These differences highlight the importance of material selection in switch design and its impact on sound quality.
Weight
The SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch both have a medium-light bottom out force, with the Meteor Orange having 57 grams and the Windy Shadow having 55 grams. However, the actuation force for both switches is not specified. In terms of weight, both switches fall into the lighter category, which may appeal to users looking for a more comfortable typing experience over extended periods or during long gaming sessions. Some users may prefer a heavier actuation force for a more pronounced typing feedback, but since the actuation force for these switches is unknown, it is difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect. Overall, both switches offer a relatively light typing experience, making them suitable for users who prioritize comfort and ease of use.
Travel distance
The Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch's 4 mm travel distance. The shorter travel distance of the Windy Shadow may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Meteor Orange may provide a more substantial feel for those who prefer a bit more depth when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and desired key press feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Meteor Orange has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor Orange for $5.00.
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 SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch offers a neutral and thocky profile, providing a satisfying deep sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch has a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Both switches offer a moderate actuation force requirement, making them suitable for various intents and purposes. The choice of board and keycaps will also play a role in determining the overall sound produced by these switches.
In terms of feel, both the Meteor Orange and Windy Shadow switches offer a mild typing experience. The Meteor Orange switch is described as gentle and polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Similarly, the Windy Shadow switch offers a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Both switches fall into the safe middle-ground zone, providing a comfortable typing experience for users of all levels.
In conclusion, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch offer different yet appealing qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Meteor Orange provides a soft and seductive tactility with a neutral and thocky sound profile, the Windy Shadow offers a distinctive bounce with a low-pitched and neutral sound profile. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience with a moderate actuation force requirement, making them versatile options for various uses. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel, as both will deliver a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, you should consider your preference for tactility versus linearity. If you enjoy a soft and seductive tactile experience with a neutral sound profile, then the Meteor Orange switches would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a distinct bounce and neutral sound profile with a low-pitched tone, the Windy Shadow switches would be more suitable. Both switches offer a medium-light bottom-out force, providing a comfortable typing experience. Whether you prioritize tactility or linearity, both switches deliver a gentle typing experience, making them suitable for a wide range of users. Consider your personal preferences and typing style when making your decision between these two exceptional switches.
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